Find My Way Back To You

Her frown that took her face was priceless for Minho, and very therapeutic.

Finally, she would not be hanging on Jisung. That alpha was his. He could wonder why the pack hasn't said anything, about the many mornings they'd found the two cuddling on the couch. Perhaps they were just happy the two were finally together. And would promptly look at either Hyunjin, or Changbin. Emphasizing they were all waiting for the two of them to finally become official. Sitting in the driver's seat, was Chan. As head alpha and the meatiest of them all, he was in charge for the day. Minho sat shotgun still. Mostly because he was too tempted at the thought of having Hayoon cornered, and giving her a few friendly reminders to fuck off his alpha. And likely, Chan didn't want them getting into a fight. They already had zombies, they didn't need a fight right now. It was too early for their community to be fighting, and eventual collapse. And, Minho agreed. Still, it was nice to see Hayoon not having to try and get with his alpha anymore. She was now seated with Hyunjin, Junyoung, and Jeongin. 

She didn't ask, though they could tell she wanted to. The radio cracked, and the familiar voice of Jisung came through. At least it made Hayoon happy. Though, it had Minho feeling all warm inside, "Stray Base to Bang Chan, you copy?"

Chan took up the speaker, and replied, "Bang Chan copies, Stray Base."

Jisung's reply came, "Just doing a test run before you lot head out. Now be safe out there, Chan. They sprint, now. If you see any change of zombie behavior, you let me know as soon as you're able. I've been tinkering with the radios to boost the signal. Not sure how far out it can reach. But I gave it my best shot. With that being said, do try and make it back in one piece." After a pause, Jisung came again, "You better fucking bring my omega home, Chan."

Chan rolled his eyes fondly, smirking as he did during his reply, "I will, don't worry."

Minho could just hear Jisung huff, as he replied curtly, "Stray Base out."

Chan chuckled, shaking his head and putting the speaker back, "What's got him so feisty today?"

Minho shrugged, "We're not together today. And I have asked him how long he thinks he can go without smoking. Said he'll try as long as possible. May take it up, if his temper gets bad." Minho shrugged softly, "He's trying to quit, Chan. For me."

Chan nodded, "I am glad he's taking the steps."

Minho nodded as they finally headed off for their run. It was blissfully silent. And Minho did not feel a headache coming on from glaring Hayoon down. Wishing his eyes had laser beams so he could vaporize her for being so damned close to his alpha. Minho was quite curious who Chan would pair up. They were starting to venture further and further out. The towns and villages near Stray Base had been picked clean by himself, and the other runners. They needed to see what else they could get. This also meant there was higher chances of running into zombies. But also, any straggling survivors needing a little helping hand. Hopefully, they were genuinely in need. And not just psychotics, springing a trap. 

After they arrived at the new region and got out of their car, Chan got his gun ready. His father's military training coming in well, for once. Even if he could have chaffed as a result. He turned to them as they gathered, ready for their run. Chan spoke, his tone indicating that there was no arguing his decisions, "We have to be very vigilant this far out. Help can't arrive fast enough. And with zombies now sprinting, we have to be very careful." He pulled out his radio, and turned it on. Hyunjin followed suit, before the others figured it out. Chan nodded, "Use the radios only if you need to." They nodded as his tone became even more of no nonsense, "Be aware of any and all survivors you may come across. This further away from Stray Base, the more likely they'll sooner take you down and feed you to their new undead pets." He turned, "Right, now with the pairs. Hyunjin, you and Hayoon." Hyunjin nodded as Chan turned to her, his expression serious, "Problems, Hayoon?"

Hayoon shook her head, answering honestly, "No."

Minho could have smirked. She very much had a problem with it. Jisung wasn't there. Honestly, she heard Jisung himself say omega. She was clearly not an omega. What was it going to take for her to realize Jisung wasn't interested? And that he and Minho were together? He did sort of pity her. Her chances of a decent mate weren't great anymore. And she'd take the first alpha she was interested in. Hence, Jisung. Though, he had to wonder why she wasn't fawning over Chan. Chan was beefy and muscular. Even this far into the apocalypse. Was she put off by his direwolf breed? Was she more aware he was with Felix? He was actually wracking his brain trying to figure out what it was about Jisung that she liked, that Chan did not have. Was it that bad boy aura? If so, she was plum out of luck. While curious, not enough to ask. More content in her keeping her fucking distance from Jisung.

Chan continued, "Junyoung, you're with Minho. Innie, you're with me."

Jeongin beamed, tail going softly. Clearly excited to be with his head alpha. The other two nodded in agreement. Chan turned, gesturing Innie join him, "Let's get going. The sooner we get what we can, the sooner we can head back to base."

With a nod of agreement, they made to enter every building they could find for potential supplies.

//

Junyoung huffed softly as he looked at a bottle of pills, trying to determine if they were still viable for Seungmin to use, "So, why the fuck is she after Jisung? He's your alpha, isn't he?"

Minho sighed, pulling another bottle of alcohol off the shelf. And into his bag. He knew it could be used to clean wounds. He replied, "I honestly don't know. But, she's not getting him. We're mates."

Junyoung nodded, "Fair enough." He bit his bottom lip, still pursuing the medicine aisle with Minho nearby. Pausing long enough, to take in their surroundings, "Has he, um?" He paused once more, "Gods above, I hate asking an omega this. Of all things. But given what we're living through and this new era, you cannot blame me. So, has Jisung-? Have you two-?"

Minho smirked softly, but spared him, "We've only kissed, Junyoung."

Junyoung spoke, "Oh. So no, no sex yet hm?"

Minho smirked, "We're not at that stage yet. But we'll get there. Not that it's truly anyone's business but our own."

Junyoung nodded, "Of course. Not wanting details or anything. Just, trying to gage where your relationship is at. I'm happy for you. And I know you'll be what he needs as well." He huffed, "Getting him to quit smoking, hm? I hope you can achieve that."

Minho hummed, "We both do." He paused now, taking a moment to ensure they were still alone, "What about you? Any special wolves in the community?"

Junyoung huffed, "I'm perfectly content to wait for that to happen. If the gods permit for me, of course. If I do have a mate, they may yet still be out there. Hopefully." Minho nodded, as he finally joined up with him. Having grabbed all they could. Junyoung smirked at him, now infinitely curious, "How bad you wanna punch her?"

Minho snorted at that, "I'd need a shovel to take her out, and then bury her. Put a bullet through her brain so she doesn't rise again, like the others have."

Junyoung snorted, "Yeah. Figured."

Minho offered him a soft smile, before pulling him along, "Let's get going. We've got more to get. Hopefully, we don't run into any trouble. Or the others." He shrugged, "Though if something happens to Hayoon, I won't be upset."

Junyoung snorted once more in amusement, "Somehow, I am not surprised."

Minho winked at him, as they left to find the others.

Jeongin watched the body fall to the ground, limp. Its head thoroughly smashed in. Nothing but mush. His gaze left the dead zombie, to Chan. Holding his gun like a club. The butt soaked in disgusting toxic blood, and flecks of flesh. Chan spoke lowly, "That should be our only zombie, hopefully. Let's not take a chance."

He turned, and guided Jeongin along to gather supplies. As they did, Jeongin inquired, "So why does Hayoon like Jisung so much, but didn't seem to want you the same way?"

Chan shrugged, "Gods know the answer. I just hope I can keep Minho from mauling her. Or Jisung. I am happy the two are officially together at last."

Jeongin nodded, before he smiled, "Hyung's now in the pack house. I was worried he'd be too isolated."

Chan smirked, "I doubt Minho would have stayed away. They're like magnets, you know."

Jeongin nodded, eagerly agreeing. With that, they returned to silence. Gathering everything up, to return to base with. Thankfully, there weren't many zombies this run. But, they were still vigilant. 

And just as Chan promised, he brought Minho safely back to Jisung.

//

Minho had a hard time refraining from his smirk.

It had been a few days since Chan joined them for a run. Wanting to make sure he could handle what was out there. Even if he only did take out a single zombie. Better than nothing, he supposed. They were heading for another run. Seems the further out they went, the more they could collect. Today, Changbin sat where Chan had. Minho still had shotgun to prevent himself from going at Hayoon. And she was frowning as once again, Jisung wasn't with them. Even Hyunjin wasn't sure how to get through to her that Jisung, Chan, and Changbin were part time runners. Only going out on occasion. But she was permanently on the team. He really hoped for more recruits soon. Rotating her out would be nice and helpful. Even if it did subject Jisung to her constant attempts. 

Changbin smiled at, her and spoke, "Ready to get going?"

She nodded silently, clearly unhappy Jisung wasn't with them. As she got seated, Changbin spoke, "I got Hyunjin today."

Minho rolled his eyes fondly, "Just kiss already."

Changbin flashed him a grin, "We just might."

Hyunjin blushed, but said nothing. Changbin pressed on, "Jeongin, you're with Hayoon."

Junyoung could have wondered why he was paired up with Minho once more, but he didn't. He really didn't mind. They got along well. And he was very careful not to get close. Even with their scent glances gunked up and no longer of real use these days, he was pretty sure alphas could just tell if anyone had gotten too close to their omegas. Jisung just seemed the type of alpha that could tell, and become very pissed about it. While he may not have been fond of the other's smoking habit, he did like the alpha well enough. And he supposed any of them were a better option, than Hayoon. Gods above knew the two would get into a fight if they had the chance. And Junyoung wasn't sure he wanted to know how Jisung would react.

With a nod of agreement, they headed off for their next hot spot. 

Before Hayoon could ask, Jeongin replied, "Yes, Pack Alpha."

This seemed enough, to silence Hayoon further. Reminding her Changbin was not just an alpha, but a meaty alpha. And second in charge of Stray Base. So, he was in charge this run. There was a new addition, however. Well, sort of. Jisung had clenched his jaw a little, before he had handed Minho his crowbar. And Minho had understood the significance of it. It was Jisung's way of ensuring Minho was safe. That through the crowbar, Jisung was protecting him. Minho closed his eyes, going back to just an hour or so ago.

Minho's ear flickered a moment, pausing as he made sure his gun was ready for their run. He looked up from the weapon, to Jisung standing before him. His grip on his metal crowbar fierce, and tight. His knuckles losing their color as a result. His jaw clenched. Minho stood straight, and inquired as he tilted his head, "You, coming with us Jisung?"

Jisung worked his jaw a moment, before he shook his head, "No." He approached, eyes boring into Minho's. Minho watched him, curious. And, slightly concerned. Once chest to chest, Jisung reached out. He took Minho's hand, and brought it to be the one gripping his crowbar. Slowly letting it go. Ensuring Minho had firm grip on it. He spoke softly, "Even when I am here at base, I want you safe. The gun's fine. So is the ammunition. Especially as I work to configure that. If Junyoung doesn't beat me to it. But I want to know you're protected, and safe out there. The further you get from base, the higher the risks become. Take my crowbar. Use it if you have to." He paused, finally taking Minho's other hand, "This way, I can protect you. Even if I cannot be by your side."

Minho smiled softly, gripping it fiercely this time, "You'll be with me, always."

The two leaned in, and shared a soft kiss. After Jisung pulled back, he spoke soft and low, "Get home safe, Minho. Watch yourself. For both Hayoon, and the zombies."

Minho nodded, smiling softly and speaking gently, "I will. I promise, my alpha."

Jisung nodded, before he turned and left. Rushing to get back to the radio. Minho looked down to the crowbar a moment, before he pulled it close. He understood what Jisung was doing. He would protect Minho, always. Be it through his crowbar given over, or being there physically. And Minho felt his heart swoon at that.

Minho's gaze did fall to the metal crowbar. Nodding subtly to himself. He'd make sure it saw some zombie brains, if he could. Show Jisung he'd protected him well. This run was as uneventful as the one with Chan. A few zombies here and there. But not enough to cause panic. Not yet. Minho knew that that shift was coming. That the hordes would be on them. He just hoped they had more runners, before the floodgates of hell reopened anew. And they were stuck fending off sprinter zombies, and even worse.

When were they going to mutate next?

//

Minho watched as Jisung slipped out of the house.

His hand gripping his packet of cigarettes. He frowned a little, sighing. They were, making progress on Jisung's smoking habit. At least, he thought he was. He wasn't being demanding or pushy. But, he really did want Jisung to stop. It worried him, more than it really should have. With a sigh, Minho also slipped out. Seeing Jisung sitting on the porch steps, lighting his cigarette. Minho sighed softly, before he came to sit beside him. Jisung looked to him, and smiled softly, "You're worrying, Minho." He leaned closer, and spoke, "I'll have you know, this is the first cigarette I've smoked all day. Quitting's not easy, you know. It can be hard. The nicotine withdrawals. But, I know it's good for me. And I do want to quit. I've told you that. And I am getting there. Just have patience with me." He reached his hand out, and took up Minho's. Giving it a fond squeeze, "You're helping me quit. Just as I thought you would. You'll be what replaces them, you know."

Minho smirked, "Not sure that's a good thing, or a bad thing."

Jisung hummed, thinking, "A mix of both. Only you can calm me down properly. But you can also be what riles me up. I had medication before the zombies came, to help me manage my temper. Once that was gone, I turned to cigarettes for their calming effect they have on me. Now, you will be what calms me down. Not these." He frowned, looking away. He pulled the cigarette close, and spoke, "Of course if I lose you, then I take them back. To mask the pain."

Minho smiled softly, bringing a hand to rest over his arm, "You won't lose me, Jisung."

Jisung looked to him, and spoke softly, "You don't know that, Minho."

Minho sighed, but nodded. He did know what Jisung meant. Gods above, he didn't want to leave Jisung behind. Or have Jisung leave him behind. Jisung was his mate. He was pulled from his thoughts, by Jisung standing. Gently bringing Minho to his feet with him. Jisung smirked, winking at him. He turned, and hauled Minho off with him. Making for the back of the house. Rarely visited by anyone. And it would seem Jisung had taken to it, to avoid Hayoon at all costs. Jisung brought Minho to the back porch bench. He sat, relaxing. Stretching the length of the furniture. With a smirk, Minho followed his example. Cuddling into Jisung's torso. Resting his head on his chest. Jisung spoke, "Just this one, then I'm all yours."

Minho smiled tenderly, "I'd like that."

Jisung smiled warmly as they gazed into one another's eyes. Despite the fact a cigarette had touched them, Minho's eyes fell to Jisung's lips. After only a moment, he leaned closer. Jisung rumbled softly, eyes closing. Returning Minho's soft kiss. Jisung had found a new addiction.

Kissing Minho.