Shikamaru hated being an omega. No, that wasn’t right. He hated the stereotypes around being an omega. Just because they had a womb and carried children made them less. Made them weak. It was easy to think that way as well. They made others go stupid with their scent, demanding protection and every few months, they needed to be knotted. Alphas were only better marginally in the fact that they didn’t have to deal with growing another baby for the next nine months. A rut? Troublesome. No, he liked to be in control.

Shikamaru wanted to be a nice, average beta with no hormones to make him stupid and no mate making demands. He supposed that was the real reason. He didn’t want a partner to demand things of him. He wanted to do them because he wanted to, not because his body, or theirs, forced him to.

So when he wakes up with a scream a month after the war with unbearable pain between his thighs and blood on the sheets, he does the only logical thing that someone in his position would do.

He freaks the fuck out.

Of course his parents rush in, why wouldn’t they when he screams like he’s being murdered. Shikaku, still nursing his own wounds from the war that should have killed him, gathers him into his arms anyway, his gentle alpha scent rolling over him in an effort to calm him.

In the end, they sedate him, the benefits of Nara medicine, and when he wakes up, he’s in clean pajamas and the sheets on his bed have been changed. The pain from before is now gone, but there’s a phantom ache there to remind him what happened.  Sitting up against the headboard is an arduous task, leaving him sweating and drained. He doesn’t want to look, but he knows he has to and after several moments of gathering his courage, he finally pulls his pajama pants down to take a look.

At first, he’s only marginally surprised that his cock had remained the same size and width and still firm around the base. He’s grateful, but that only lasts a brief second as his hand drifts lower, sliding between soft, damp folds of his new…pussy. Yeah, he apparently had one of those now too and that was fucking troublesome. Yet, a sudden bolt of pleasure as he explored left him gasping in surprise and left him briefly thinking that if it felt this good, then it might not be so bad.

He manages to make it through his first heat, surprisingly, but after that, he gets the strongest suppressants and blockers his clan makes and pretends to be a beta. Surprisingly, everyone buys it.

—xOx—

His plan lasts all of a year before it comes to a burning, yet seductively aromatic end.

Why?

Because of the number one, hyperactive, knuckleheaded ninja. Shikamaru hadn’t seen him since the war, and not since Naruto had been in Kumo for the last six months. Before that, he had been in Suna. Kakashi had seen him, but Shikamaru hadn’t left the village at all.  It all made sense now.  The blond’s birthday was only a few weeks after his, so of course he would have presented around the same time.

Naruto strides into the Hokage office like he owns it, which is always hilarious, as even Kakashi defers to the blond, giving him an eye smile. He waves his hand to go ahead before freezing as Naruto’s new scent permeates the room.

“So an Alpha, huh?” Kakashi starts, but whatever Naruto says is drowned out in favor of the Nara taking deep breaths. The first thing he smells is the air just before it rains and he swears his hair rises from the static of lightning alone.  Underneath th at enticing scent , he could smell woods , like that of the Nara forest, thick with moss and life, and if that wasn’t enough, there is a distinct sweetness that reminds him of the small dango stand about a block away that he secretly indulges in when he needs a pick me up. He opens his mouth and inhales, tongue dipping out to taste the air because he needs more of it, can never get enough and it’s not until he trips over his chair that he even realizes he’s standing and heading towards Naruto.

He barely catches himself, but the noise still draws the other four occupants in the room. Naruto, Iruka and Kakashi seem to be full of concern and confusion, but his father seems…oh kami…delighted. And no, no no. Just because his omega decided to jump the first unmated alpha - not true, he’d ran into Temari a week ago and hadn’t that been an eye opener, but it still means nothing.

“Sorry, forgot something,” he says and before Naruto can close the distance to help him up, Shikamaru is already running from the room.

“Is he okay, Kakashi-Sensei?” He hears Naruto ask but whatever reply is given, he misses in favor of bolting to the Nara Forest where no one will likely bother him for a while.

—xOx—

“Well, that was interesting,” Shikaku grins after Naruto has left.

“You know something, Nara-san?” Iruka, ever the polite, asks while going over to pick up the papers Shikamaru had scattered in his haste to escape.

“Shikamaru is an Omega, Anata,” the Hokage answers instead, his grin visible behind his mask. “Right, Shikaku?”

“He freaked out when it happened, but yes, it seemed all of his calculations didn’t bank on him being an omega and he’s not sure how to adapt. I think he’s more worried people will look at him differently.”

“He’s wrong. Naruto, alpha or not, wouldn’t pick a different advisor because of biology, but with that kind of reaction, they may actually be mates.”

“So….” Iruka begins, not liking the mischievous glint in the two’s eyes.

“We know Shikamaru-kun is compatible to our dear hero, but is Naruto just as smitten?”

“No. Kakashi, we shouldn’t meddle.” 

“I could bring a blanket of Shikamaru’s. It has his scent in it.” Shikaku cuts in, ignoring the beta.

“And Iruka can see if Naruto has a similar reaction!” Kakashi finishes and by now, Iruka is done.

“No, no, no. If they’re meant to be together, it’ll work out.”

“You mean like we did, Ru? I remember having to die to convince you to date me.” The little vein that pops up in Iruka’s forehead had always been a favorite of Kakashi’s and seeing his mate turn red is only icing on the cake. He can see the moment Iruka gives in with a huff of annoyance.

“Fine, but for the record, I still think this is a bad idea.”

—xOx—

Whether Iruka thought it was a bad idea or not, he can’t find himself regretting his part in this as Naruto inhales the blanket in his hands. Shikaku hadn’t taken long to retrieve the blanket but had warned them to be careful. Shikamaru was still uncertain with his new body and if Naruto wanted to try this, he’d have to move slow. 

Iruka didn’t point out that if they were concerned, they should have stayed out of it, but as Naruto hugs the blanket to his chest, he should have known not to worry.

“Iruka-nii, whose is this? They smell terrified.”

 That gives  Iruka pause. “You can smell that?” Naruto nods.

“They smell like Gardenias,” he inhales, burying his nose in the blanket. It always surprised the older man just how much Naruto knew about plants and flowers. He supposed gardening as a hobby would do that to a person. “You know, rich, creamy…almost seductive. It’s calling to me, Iruka. Well, that new voice inside of me. I thought Kurama was bad but this one has me wanting to find the person with this scent and…” he trails off, inhaling again. “But they’re scared. Just before Gardenias bloom, they’re kind of bitter. That’s what I’m smelling and it’s telling me they're afraid. What are they afraid of?”

It brings a small smile to the sensei’s face, knowing Naruto’s first concern is for Shikamaru’s fear, not because he smelled good.

“So what do you want to do, Naruto?” The blond purses his lips in thought and the beta has to admit that the knucklehead has certainly grown. No longer rushing into thing.

“To tell them it’s going to be okay. They don’t have to be afraid because I’m here. They can trust me.”

It’s that confidence and determination that has Iruka giving in. “They’re an omega, Naruto and they are scared. They’re worried their friends will look at them differently and not trust them. They’re worried every strategy for the future is moot at this point. Omegas, especially in clans, haven’t always been much more than baby makers. It’s different now, I don’t think your generation sees that, but it’s a stigma the clans have lived with for a while, even if their clan is more laid back than most.”

“It’s Shikamaru, isn’t it?” Even with the hints, Iruka is amazed at just how smart Naruto is, how people continue to underestimate him. “I’m going to talk to him. He’s always been there for me, I wanna be there for him too, you know?”

“And the fact that he smells good?” Iruka nearly laughs at the flush that takes over Naruto’s face.

“If- If he w-wants and m-maybe when h-he’s comfortable, I can court him and he’ll let me smell him more.”

“Yea, go talk to your Nara, Naruto.” Iruka does laugh at the way the blond stumbles at those words, but with barely a wave, the blond alpha is gone. The beta doesn’t bother calling him back, doesn’t bother telling him that scents are a good indicator of mates. He’s done his job of nudging Naruto into what he hopes will be someone Naruto can spend his life with. He deserves that.

—xOx—

“So I had a reaction,” Shikamaru tells his parents hours later when he heads back home. There’s no point in lying. He’d never been able to deceive his father and his mother isn’t nagging him for missing dinner. She knows, his dad knows, so it’s better to just accept that and move on.

“So your father said. Tripping over your own feet? Did Naruto really smell that good?”

Shikamaru groans in embarrassment as he falls into his seat at the kitchen table.  His mother’s laughter has him regretting the entire thing until a warm plate of food is placed in front of him.

“When your father smelled me for the first time, he didn’t catch himself,” Yoshino giggles and it’s his father’s turn to blush. It brings the omega a little bit of satisfaction to know he’s not the only one.

“Yea, but I don’t plan on acting on it. Naruto can pick a lot of people better than me,” he ignores his parents’ twin frowns and continues, “And he shouldn’t base his choice on scent or whatever. This isn’t a biology thing. It’s a..”

He’s cut off by a knock at the door, brown eyes trailing to the front door until his father grunts. Head snapping back to eye his parents as his mother withdraws her elbow from his father’s side.

“Get the door, Shika-kun. Let your son finish his dinner. He might need it.” His mother sends him a wink and no, no, no they didn’t. In a surprising bout of energy, he’s up and to the front door before his father, yanking it open to the most heavenly scent he’s ever had the privilege of smelling twice. He sways on his feet, brain going instantly fuzzy and relaxed. He can’t even process that Naruto is there and he most likely knows because that scent wraps him in a thick blanket like the one Naruto is holding.

Wait….

He reaches out to snatch it away, but the alpha is faster, wrapping a large hand around his wrist and tugging. Shikamaru falls because apparently he is weak for that ozone, woodsy citrus scent and is only kept from smacking the floor like his father all those years ago because the blond catches him.

This close, and despite his alarm that Naruto is here and holding his blanket, he melts into the embrace, nose nuzzling into the alpha’s neck before he can think better of it. A soft purr rises in the foyer of the Nara home, echoed by a low rumble.

“Oh Shikaku, isn’t that adorable?”

HIs mother’s coo breaks him from his daze and he snaps back from the alpha he was cuddling up to, but strong arms keep him close.

“Taking us somewhere we can talk in private,” is the only warning he gets from Naruto before the wind whips around them. When it stops, he’s hit with the unfiltered scent of the alpha, causing him to shiver but hands on his shoulders guide him to sit.

“Sorry, Shika, I… Are you okay?” He stops when the omega buries his face in his hands to gain some control.

“Yea, I…” and he’s shaking his head before he knows it. “No, it’s too fast, too much. I can’t think, Naruto. I’m overwhelmed.” And though he can’t smell Shikamaru, he can see he’s terrified. He always was when his ability to think was taken from him.

“Hey, shh, it’s okay. Would you rather some fresh air?” At Shikamaru’s vehement nod, Naruto picks him up and carries him to the balcony. He takes several steps away from the distressed man, allowing him room to breathe. “Sorry, I didn’t think. I was just…I needed to get you somewhere you’d be comfortable. I guess I messed up, huh?”

Shikamaru doesn’t answer, not right away. Instead, he greedily gulps in air that is only marginally tainted by the alpha’s scent. It takes several moments before he feels some semblance of normal return to him and by then, he can feel his face is flushing from his hairline to his neck. He chances a peek at the alpha between his thin fingers, wincing as he sees Naruto kneeling several feet away, eyes on the ground.

“It’s okay,” he manages to find his voice. “Just unexpected. I…wasn’t expecting to have that reaction to you…”

“Do you hate it?”

Shikamaru’s chest clenches at Naruto’s tone. It was obvious he liked it, so he knew Naruto wasn’t asking if he liked his scent. He was asking if he hated his own reaction to it.

“No, but I’m terrified. I’m terrified of you not getting a choice. I’m terrified of what people will say if you have an omega as an advisor, but I think what I'm most scared of is…” he swallows hard and forces his hands down, “Not having control.” This time, he doesn’t flinch as blue eyes find his because they’re full of understanding.

“I get that, trust me I do. This guy and I,” Naruto taps his chest, “haven’t always been on the best of terms. We never agreed, sometimes we still don’t. I get it, Shika, I do, but you know what always helped me?”

And Shikamaru feels like an idiot because of course Naruto would understand. If anyone knows what it’s like to not always be in control of their life, it’s the blond on his knees in front of him.

“What?” He finds himself curious.

“My friends. Sakura, Kakashi. At times, Sasuke. But I think the person who helped me most was you. You never sugar coated things. You always told the facts, but you were there, and you still promise to be there.”

“Of course I do. Told you I wanted to stay by your side. Always knew with my calm and your lack of predictability, we’d be unstoppable. Just didn’t realize we were that compatible.” The omega finds himself blushing again as Naruto’s bright smile is turned on him. He drops his eyes because he can’t keep looking into the sun as the alpha closes the distance and bundles him back up in his arms.

“Can I?”

His brown eyes jerk up in alarm and Naruto bends down and nuzzles his neck. “Can you what?”

“Can I smell you? Seems unfair you’ve been smelling me and I don’t get anything but your blanket.”

It should be impossible but he feels his face heat even more, even as he nods. In Naruto’s arms, he knows he’s safe, knows he’s with someone who gets it, and it’s going to be a relief to know there is someone he’s comfortable telling.

“Yea, show me to the bathroom and I can wipe off the blockers,” he finds himself whispering, only to yelp when Naruto picks him back up and carries him inside his apartment. “Hey, what are you doing!” He squirms in the alpha’s grasp but the man doesn’t let go until he’s sitting on the bathroom counter. He shudders as a warm cloth is pressed against his neck and then the alpha buries his face against his skin.

Naruto generates heat and so it’s not the chill that has Shikamaru shivering. No, it’s certainly the lips and nose against his neck, sending small jolts of pleasure through his body and he has to bite his own lip to keep from moaning. It’s only natural for those jolts to travel downwards and it’s only because the alpha is between his thighs that keeps him from rubbing them together. Without the blockers, he can smell himself, can smell his own scent getting sweeter as Naruto’s gets muskier.

“Naruto,” he groans, fingers against that broad chest before he pushes.

“Yea, that’s uh…” the blond licks his lips, blue eyes dropping from Shikamaru’s face to his lips. The Nara blushes and ducks his head. It doesn’t mean anything. Naruto has to be wrapped up in the scents and as much as Shikamaru wants the alpha, it can’t be anything.

“Sorry, overwhelming,” he says instead of the truth. 

“Huh?” Blue eyes wide as the alpha flushes deliciously as well. “Right, oh, uh…should I take you home?”

“Probably or my mother is going to start making plans for grandbabies,” he says dryly, forcing a laugh to relax the other. “Don’t worry, I don’t plan on trapping you, Naruto.” Shikamaru teases gently and pushes him back further so he can get off the counter. “Maybe I’ll walk home. Could use the fresh air.”

“Want me to go with you?”

“Why, because I’m an omega and your instincts are telling you I have to be protected?” Shikamaru rolls his eyes, yet attempts to soften his words with a smile. That had been what he was afraid of, to be treated differently because he had a womb. “It’s all right, I got it.” He adds when it looks like Naruto is going to argue. “I’m a shinobi too, remember?”

Before the joke completely falls flat, he disappears in a flurry of leaves.

—xOx—

“Naruto!” Teuchi greets enthusiastically as the alpha walks in. Iruka offers a small wave before gesturing to a seat beside him. Despite being comfortable in Ichiraku and around Iruka, it’s clear the blond is nervous. Instead of bombarding him with questions, Iruka waits for the blond to order and for the bowls of ramen to arrive. Sure enough, after several bites, Naruto sets his chopsticks down and looks towards him, mouth opening and closing like a fish out of water.

“It’s better if you spit it out, Naruto.”

“Yea, I know, but it’s awkward. You taught me a lot of things, but I realized now that I’m an alpha who has no idea how to court an omega.”

Iruka doesn’t fist bump, but it’s a near thing. Instead, he puts his own chopsticks down and gives the blond his full attention.

“You know there are better people to ask, right? The Hokage for one, he’s an alpha. Oh, wait, you already have your advisor picked. Why not ask Shikamaru? I know he’s an omega but -”

“I can’t ask him!” Naruto panics and waves his hands about before looking around. The headmaster isn’t sure what he’s looking for, but judging by the relief that crosses his face, Iruka assumes he was looking for a certain Nara. Not finding him around, the blond leans closer, though his whisper could pass as a normal person’s volume. “I want to court Shikamaru. If I ask him, he’s just going to get suspicious and run. I promised his omega status wouldn’t change how I felt about him.”

“But you’re wanting to court him and eventually mate him. Doesn’t that mean it is changing how you feel?”

Iruka hates to bring it up, especially when Naruto looks down at his bowl. It’s so rare for the blond to be quiet that it’s concerning until Naruto smiles gently and looks back up.

“Not really. I kinda had a crush on him when I came back from training with Jiraiya. I thought it’d go away, you know? And then Jiraiya died and he was there. I try not to rely on anyone, I try to be strong.  But you’ve been there, and Kakashi’s been there, even Granny Tsunade. Those I can count on are so few. Those I can share the weight with are so few, and then here comes Shikamaru and he gets it. He shows me the future. He picks me back up when I’m feeling low and I realize some things. Jiraiya, You, Kakashi, and even Granny Tsunade… One day I’ll have to live without you, to go on, and share everything you taught me, but Shikamaru? I don’t want to live without him. I don’t think I can. Even the thought of it, it hurts. Right here,” he gestures to his chest. “There’s a real fear, but it’s more than just being able to rely on him.” The alpha smiles softly, his emotions smelling of fondness and something more. 

“And he smells great?” Naruto sputters and Iruka laughs before placing a hand on his shoulder. “I get it, it’s more than just instinct, but instinct is why you’re acknowledging your own feelings, right? It’s telling you that you two would be great together, right?”

“I knew it from before, but yea, his scent does things to me I’ve never experienced before. I wouldn’t consider myself selfless…”

“I would.” Iruka interjects, squeezing Naruto’s shoulder before pulling back. “You care more about this village and your friends than anyone else. There’s nothing you won’t do for any of them. We all know that.” It had always been amazing to Iruka how someone so strong could think so little of himself. Naruto as a kid claimed to be the greatest but the Beta had a feeling the younger told himself that just so he remembered what he was fighting for,

“ But,” Naruto blushes and looks back down. “It’s no longer for recognition. It’s no longer because I want to be Hokage. Yea, I still want those things, but I want to do it for him. If he’s not with me, then I want none of that. So what do I do to be someone he feels the same way about?”

The brunette didn’t say anything for a long moment knowing that the words he said would be taken to heart. He had a feeling Shikamaru already felt the same way about Naruto as the blond did him, but whether the Nara realized it was uncertain. Knowing what he knew of the omega, he’d likely get lost in his head and talk himself out of the truth. Finally, he comes to a conclusion and smiles at his little brother.

“I’m just a beta, but I know how Kakashi started, but at the time, I didn’t recognize it for what it was. Scent is a big thing, which you already know both of you like how the other smells, but scent him openly. If he allows you to touch him in front of others, then you know that at least his omega is interested. As for his brain, be clear, Naruto. Don’t leave him guessing. He’s not the type to argue with facts, so leave him no room to misinterpret. And finally, let instinct guide you. It’s better than you realize. If he is meant for you, then your alpha will know what to do.”

“Thanks, Iruka-nii.” Naruto’s relieved smile causes the elder to smile in return before he grabs the discarded chopsticks and hands them back.

“Yea yea, but we need to eat before our ramen gets cold,” the beta teases, laughing when Naruto digs in with gusto.

—xOx—

Stealing Shikamaru away from the Hokage tower was almost too easy. In fact, if Naruto didn’t know any better, he’d say Shikaku and Kakashi were encouraging this absence. Kakashi, he understood, but Shikaku was too smart not to realize what he was trying to do. The fact that the elder alpha let him steal his unmated, omega son away from the office made him feel victorious. If Shikaku was giving him his blessing, then he had hope.

The two strolled quietly down the busy streets, the omega’s scent muffled under blockers, but occasionally a head would turn and try to look closer at the man walking beside the alpha. Those whose looks lingered too long received narrowed eyes and a soft growl, but when Shikamaru turned to him in confusion, Naruto merely smiled.

“You’re being weird, Naruto. What’s up?”

“Nothing, I’m allowed to hang out with my friend, right?”

“My dad and Kakashi both let me go, so either you’re up to something or you need my help. Which is it?”

“What makes you think I’m up to something?” He tries to deflect, only for the Nara to roll his eyes and stuff his hands in his pockets before picking up speed. “Hey, wait!”

“You gonna ask me what you need?” The shorter man didn’t turn to look at him, but he did slow as Naruto caught up. Brown eyes cut to the side as the alpha drew his bottom lip between his teeth and rubbed the back of his neck. There was a delicate pink blush across his cheeks that stirred something inside of Shikamaru, but he knew better than to comment on it. Instead, he leaned close and bumped their shoulders together before grabbing his arm and tugging him down the street. As much as it was out of the ordinary for him, Shikamaru needed to ease the frustration that had become apparent in the alpha’s face. He wanted to make life easier for him. Someone who saved the world, specifically Naruto, should never be that frustrated. So he took him to the one place he knew he’d be comfortable.

“Naruto,  my boy!” Teuchi called with a warm smile to both of them. Whatever stupor he had fallen into, he quickly shook off as the smell of ramen soaked his senses. This was better than he planned. Dinner with Shikamaru would be a good first step, right?”

“Hey old man! Miso pork ramen for Shikamaru and my usual please!” He waved and finally turned to take Shikamaru’s wrist and pull him to his seat, letting the omega take the stool between him and the wall.

“I see Ramen relaxes you,” the Nara chuckles and sits more gracefully than Naruto, turning towards the alpha and placing his chin in his hand to watch him. He wanted to press and find out what was bothering Naruto, but he knew if he did, then he’d likely close off. Instead, he tilted his neck to the side and swiped at the blockers on his neck before encouraging gentle pheromones to be released to comfort the alpha. That was normal, right? 

What he wasn’t expecting was to see the alpha whip his head towards him and sniff the air before leaning closer. Blue eyes were glassy and Shikamaru reached up to cover his neck, to hide, but Naruto reached out to snag his wrist.

“You smell so good, can I?” The blond murmured and Shikamaru found himself nodding even before he processed the words. He was met with a content, alpha scent, full of citrus and ozone as Naruto leaned closer. On instinct, the omega tilted his head to give him more access and was rewarded with Naruto’s nose brushing behind his ear. 

Instinct seemed to take over as Naruto moved forward, Shikamaru parting his knees to allow the alpha closer to him. Other than his nose, the blond didn't touch him and the two sank into the solace of each other’s scents, ignoring the outside. It wasn’t until Teuch placed their bowls in front of them that reality came back and Shikamaru jerked away with an embarrassing squeak.

“Sorry,” he panted, turning red from the roots of his hair down his neck like it hadn’t been Naruto to instigate their intimacy. Like it hadn’t been the alpha to make him weak and beg for more. “I uh…smells good,” he said, ducking his head to breathe in the spices of his bowl instead of Naruto’s mouthwatering scent. It wasn’t nearly as good.

Unlike Shikamaru however, Naruto hadn’t jerked back. Instead, his eyes had flashed red at the interruption and he had to take several moments to rein in his alpha instincts that demanded he take the unmated omega and hide him away until he could stake his own claim. Teuchi was just a beta, and a lot older, but being startled had his instincts wanting to jump out. By the time he calmed them down, Shikamaru was looking over his bowl and sending furtive looks his way.

“Hey Shika, what are you doing after this?”

“So finally figured out what you needed?” Shikamaru teased as brown eyes slowly drifted towards the alpha, curiosity filtering through his scent. 

“Nah, don’t need anything, just wanna-

“Shika-nii! Shika-nii!” Naruto would have growled if it hadn’t been the voice of a child calling and both looked towards the street where a young Mirai was running as fast as she could towards the Nara. Behind her was Asuma, not attempting to keep up at this point with his cane since someone was there to catch her.

“Mirai! Are you running from dad again?” Shikamaru chuckled. When she came close enough, he scooped her up, placing the little girl on his lap. She pressed her tiny, chubby hands against the omega’s cheeks and pressed, giggling when the brunette made a silly face.

“We’re going to the park! Come with us, big brother!”

“I’d love to, Mirai, but Naruto and I have some things we needto do.” Shikamaru’s face fell when Mirai’s did, making the alpha’s heart clench.

“Hey, that’s okay, Shika. We can do this another time, it’s no big deal.”

“Well, why don’t you join us, Naruto?” By now, Asuma had caught up to his daughter and had placed a hand on Shikamaru’s shoulder. Curiously, he didn’t enact his alpha instincts, despite the other man being an alpha himself. Maybe it was because Naruto respected him, or Shikamaru did, or maybe it was just because he hadn’t been startled, but the other alpha’s presence had him relaxing.

“Sure, that’d be great!” He beams, feeling heat flood his face as Shikamaru smiles back at him with one of those rare smiles the man never uses.

“Maybe we can see if your endless energy actually has a limit. My money is on Mirai,” the omega smirks and steals Naruto’s breath away.

—xOx—

“Shika-nii!” The small toddler squealed in delight as the Nara tossed her up into the air only to catch her before tossing her up again. “Daddy, look! I’m flying!” Mirai continued to giggle, echoed by Shikamaru’s laughter, before he held her up high above his head and began running with her.

“I see baby! You’re going so high!” Asuma called to his daughter, a fond smile on his face before turning to the blond beside him. The blond alpha, as expected, seemed to also be watching the duo, but the older man knew those blue eyes were focused on the omega with his lips turned up into a gentle smile.

“You’re staring, Naruto, but I don’t think he notices.” Asuma smirked as the blond flushed and ducked his head, eyes darting to the ground before glancing to the older man.

“Yea, can’t help it, I guess.” His eyes easily slid back to the omega that was now being chased by the tiny toddler and Naruto wasn’t sure he’d ever seen Shikamaru smile so big. “He’s good with her.”

“He is.” The smell of smoke surprisingly added to the older alpha’s scent, making it richer, more comfortable. Maybe that was why Naruto found himself opening his mouth again.

“You said you don’t think he notices. What did you mean? According to you, I’m being obvious but..” the blond trailed off and ran a hand through his hair before resting both hands against the back of his head. “He can’t be that oblivious, not after…”

The older man leans more on his cane as Naruto blushes all over. He raises an eyebrow, a silent gesture for the younger alpha to go on, patience being more his style since he had been forced into retirement because of Hidan.

“We didn’t do anything, but surely he knows I’m interested since I asked to smell him.” Which yea, now  it sounded weird. “Anyway, I asked Iruka-sensei how to court an omega, but Shikamaru is smart. He’s going to figure it out before I do anything. I bet he’s already figured it out.”

“Hmm, well you’re right. He is smart, if not the smartest I know with the exception being himself.” At Naruto's curious look, Asuma continues. “He probably thinks you’re up to something already, but has convinced himself that out of everything, you’re not interested in him. Best to be straight forward and tell him. Don’t let him concoct theories or it’ll be more…” the older alpha smirks before glancing back. “Troublesome.”

“What makes you so sure he won’t reject me before I even get the words out of my mouth?”

“Because, Naruto. You’re the only one of his friends who knows he’s an omega. Out of everyone, he trusts you the most.”

“Oh, but do you think he could love me?”

Asuma hobbled forward on his cane towards the duo that was now flopped in the grass and staring up at the cloud. Quietly, Naruto follows and when they get close enough, he’s rewarded with a smile from the omega before he pats the ground beside him in expectation.

“I think he already does, Naruto,” the elder alpha hummed too soft for the others to hear him. “I think he already does.”

—xOx—

“So, Naruto, huh?”

“Troublesome,” Shikamaru sighed and took Asuma’s Dragon King out of spite and because he could. 

“Nani,” He heard his mentor’s sharp intake of breath in surprise at the move he didn’t predict. Well, Shikamaru hadn’t expected him to ask about Naruto so all was fair in war, or shogi in this case. 

“Whatever my dad told you isn’t true. I had a reaction, and it’s under control. I probably missed a dose of my suppressants is all.” His sensei didn’t say anything at first, choosing instead to light his cigarette. After Naruto had been called away at the park for a mission, the duo had gone back to the Nara Compound so Mirai could see Shikaku and Yoshino. He was sure she and his mom were now playing dress up.

“See, your dad didn’t tell me anything, but that’s info I didn’t have.” Shikamaru winced at the soft chuckle from Asuma before glaring at him. He blamed his omega for letting that slip and was determined more than ever to not give in. Naruto had others, could have anyone. They were friends, that was all. “Yet, I don’t recall friends sniffing each other publicly like you two, and he looked two seconds away from pulling you in his lap. That’s friendship for you though, I suppose.”

Shikamaru threw the piece he had just stolen back onto the board, causing others to skitter out of place before he turned a sneer towards his teacher.“What do you want me to say? I can’t control myself around him? That this is exactly what I didn’t want to happen? Don’t you think I don’t know that? I don’t want to manipulate him! Not when so many others have.”

The scent of smoke permeated the air between him but it did little to relax the irate omega. Still, he hadn’t meant to lose his cool and he realized he must have shouted when his father opened the door to check on them. The younger Nara hung his head until the door closed before speaking up.

“Sorry, just high strung. They’re not letting me take my suppressants this time. Said I needed to ride it out.” Shikamaru scrubbed a hand over his face before sliding it back into his ponytail and tugging. The Nara Doctor he saw for his suppressants didn’t give him more because she was afraid of what it would do to his body if he didn’t have a heat once a year. He knew she was right, and he knew it wasn’t fair to take it out on the man across from him, but it didn’t make it any easier either.

“So ask him to help you.”

“What?” Shikamaru’s head snapped up so fast he heard his neck pop.

“Ask Naruto to help you. See if it’s all in your head or he’s willing.”

“I can’t do that, what if it fucks everything up? What if he rejects m-, I mean he says no?”

“Is that really the most likely outcome that that big brain of yours came up with?” 

The Nara shrugged one shoulder up and looked away. “I mean, why not? What do I have to offer him? Most days I like to lie around, works a drag and I’m a slacker, remember? Besides, with girls like Hinata who would be good for him, why would he go for someone like me?”

“You’re right. Why would he choose you?” Asuma retorted as quickly as Shikamaru had asked. “Why would he want someone who vowed to walk beside him? Why would he want someone who's been friends with him since he was a child? Someone who may appear to be lazy, but stops to think of every possibility not because he can, but he does it to protect his friends? Probably the same guy that couldn’t take his eyes off of you while you ran around with Mirai, and most likely the same guy that you trusted to tell him your best kept secret. You trusted him this far, why not trust him a little more?”

“And if you’re wrong?”

“I’ll help you do your paperwork for a week.”

“But you’re shit at paperwork.”

“I know, it’ll take twice as long.”

The laughter was soft between them and despite the butterflies that began fluttering in his stomach, he felt something like hope begin to burn as well.

—xOx—

Shikamaru’s palms were sweating, so he ran them along his thighs before knocking on the door. He’d put it off for as long as he could, but the tingling under his skin told him he was out of time. His heat would be starting soon and despite wanting to use toys at first, the thought of anyone seeing him like that was terrifying. The desire to spend it with the handsome, blond alpha was near overwhelming. Of course, if Naruto turned him down, he had time to go home and deal with it himself.

Yet, when the door opened and that mouthwatering scent wrapped around him, he found his knees already going weak.

Kami, he was fucked.

“Hey Shika, whoa, are you okay? You’re looking…scared again,” Naruto laughs, though it sounds off as the blond rubs the back of his neck and his scent turns uncertain. He scents the air, the smell of Gardenias even more seductive than usual, but with a tint of honey, it tells the alpha inside that this is an omega in preheat; An unmated omega in preheat.  “Do you wanna come in?” 

“Please,” He nods and the alpha moves out of the way, shutting the door behind him. 

“Do you want to cuddle? You really don’t seem okay.” Knowing the Nara’s discomfort with his omega body helps him keep a tight reign on his own instincts, which are telling him to wrap him up, protect, and mate.

“Spendmyheatwithme.”  He’s proud because at least he got the words out but the blond squints at him before walking off. By the time he returns, the omega is hunched over with his hands over his face, hyperventilating.

“Woah, woah. Calm down, Shika. I just went to get a cloth for your blockers. I’m a little confused,” but as the blond reaches out with the cloth, the shadow user grabs his wrist. Naruto can feel the tremble from the other in front of him but when he goes to hug him, the Nara merely holds up his hand to stop him.

“Naruto,” he whispers, licking his lips before looking up into blue eyes. “Will you spend my heat with me? I...trust you and it would be…less of a drag to have you there.”

To anyone that didn’t know the Nara, they would assume he was taking the easy way out but Naruto could see it for what it was. He was trusted. Shikamaru wanted him around because he trusted him when he was losing control. He was scared, but Naruto made him feel safe, and the blond found himself nodding almost instantly.

“I could - would be happy to, Shika. I can take care of you.” His voice is soft, barely above a whisper between them and he breathes a sigh of relief when the omega does.

“That would…that would definitely not suck.”

It’s all Naruto can take as he closes the distance and wipes at the blockers his omega wears. And oh, that’s new. Shikamaru’s scent is a little sweeter now and he takes the opportunity to press an open mouthed kiss against the scent gland underneath them, grinning when the omega shudders violently against him.

“You really waited till the last minute, huh? Do you want to go back to your house?” A violent shake of his head has him changing tactics. “Do you need me to go get you anything?”

“No, I just want…” He wants so much, but he’s afraid to ask for what he wants. “This is enough. I promise. Thanks. I won’t uh, I’ll try not to be too much.” And oh, oh. It’s that fear and discomfort that he not only smells, but sees, that has it clicking in his head.

“Hey, if it helps, I’ve wanted you for a really long time, before this.” Shikamaru tenses and tries to pull back, but Naruto holds on. “Ever since I got back from training and you had gotten taller, filled out more. You smiled when you saw me, and sure, others had, but yours made it hard to breathe. I knew how you saw me, but I didn’t want your reputation sullied by me.  I had to make something of myself, and I did. I became someone you can count on, right?”

“Narut-oh!” His name ends on a moan as the alpha gives in and sucks hard on that gland in his omega’s neck.

“Shika, I wanna make you scream my name everyday,” the alpha all but growls against heated skin. Hands card through his hair before Shikamaru yanks hard so they’re eye to eye.

“You’re,” he pants and the scent of arousal coming from the alpha gets stronger as he sees lust blown, brown eyes. “You’re impossible. We’re..impossible. I’ve wanted you since then too. But,” and the omega closes his eyes tightly. “I can’t let this be just about our biology…You’re going to take me on a date after this. I’m going to take you on a date. I want to be good to you because you may think you don’t deserve someone who can count on you, but that’s bullshit. You deserve everything, and I wanna make sure you get it, okay?”

He knows he hasn’t started his heat yet, the simmering is still barely below the skin, but the way Naruto looks at him, kyuubi eyes glowing alpha red, sends a bolt of lightning down his spine. Naruto’s fingers flex against his biceps, those large hands sliding down his back to his hips.

“We’ve already been on dates, idiot,” Naruto says, sounding as breathless as the omega feels.

“Who are you calling an idiot, idiot?” Shikamaru forces a chuckle, despite the desire to drag Naruto over him like a weighted blanket.

“You, for not realizing I’ve been trying to court you since you told me you wanted nothing to change. And I know you don’t want this to be about biology, but mine is screaming to make sure you got what you need. You sure you don’t want to go home for this? I know you need to be somewhere you feel safe.”

Shikamaru’s already shaking his head. “It’s not started yet. Probably tomorrow,” he says, running a hand through his hair. “But I feel safe here, if that’s okay. You’re…safe, Naruto,” he blushes, smiling when Naruto flushes as well.

“That’s good, so spending the night, yes?”

“I don’t wanna burden-”

“You’re not, but you still look like a deer ready to run, and I want to do more than just fuck you. I told you, I want to take care of you. I want to protect you, Shika.” A small bit of tension eases out of his shoulders at the alpha’s words and he allows his head to drop forward against Naruto’s collarbones.

There’s a small ‘poof!’ behind him and he raises his head to see three more Naruto’s, causing him to stiffen in the blond’s arms.

“Woah, it’s okay, Shika. Just going to get a few things ready for you and it’s hard to let go of you since I can touch now,” the blond smiles and the tension disappears as fast as it had arrived.

“Okay. Sorry, just nervous.”

“I know, we’ll take care of you, Shika!” One of the clones yells and the Nara finds himself smiling and hiding his face once again.

“Dinner, blankets, and groceries," the original commands and then he’s being lifted, his legs automatically wrapping around Naruto’s waist even as he yelps. Instead of fear though, it relaxes him and he melts against that embrace as Naruto carries them over to the couch. Hands rub against his thighs before another cups his jaw and lifts his face.

“You ever been with anyone, Shika?”

“No, I uh, hadn’t really had time. Between the war and you know…”

Naruto chuckles before nuzzling Shikamaru’s heated cheek.. “I was with Jiraiya for three years. Never been with a guy though.”

The Nara huffed and looked away, not liking how jealous he felt that Naruto had had others. Naruto’s soft laugh brings him back though, brown eyes narrowed in annoyance even if logically he knows he has no excuse.

“Oh, you’re possessive too. I kinda like that.”

“Too?” Shikamaru whispers, cheeks flushing again.

“Too, because it means that I can be possessive of you.” The omega rolls his eyes but the effect is softened by his shy smile. “And I’m going to kiss you now, Shikamaru,” the alpha vows as both hands cup his face and pull him in.

“Please,” the genius manages to mutter before chapped lips press gently against his own. There’s the uncomfortable catch of dry skin and it doesn’t seem like anything special until Naruto tilts his head to the side and oh… oh.

The gentle press of lips sends tiny shocks down his spine . He wraps his arms around Naruto’s neck and slides closer, bringing his hips flush against the blond’s lap. The alpha’s hard, the clothed erection sliding between his thighs as more slick trickles out.

“Shit,” the omega groans, pulling back to breath only to be yanked forward with a hand on the back of his neck and a low growl.  Shikamaru gasps into it and is immediately penetrated by the alpha’s tongue. As Naruto rolls his hips upwards, the omega can smell the other’s scent deepen and darken and the animal now living rent free in his head that the alpha, his alpha, is going into rut because of him. His own scent heightens as well, turning sweeter in the room as an answer. It makes his body heat up even more.

Naruto’s taste is as addictive as his scent, leaving Shikamaru craving more as the blond pulls at his flak jacket. It hits the floor with a dull thud before warm hands slide under his shirt, under his mesh, and the skin on skin contact has him trembling. And yet they’ve barely even started.

“Shika, my Shika,” the blond whispers as he pulls away, sounding as wrecked as the Nara feels. “I need you to turn your brain on for a few more minutes. You’re sure you want me? Want this? Once your heat starts, we won’t be able to start.”

The mix of nerves and arousal makes a dizzying concoction but he manages to focus just enough to tug on those blond strands. “Safe with you,” he mutters, pulling Naruto back into a heated kiss. This time, it’s his tongue going inside, mapping out the caverns of the alpha’s mouth before the other pulls back again, causing him to whine.

“Shh, I got you, Shika, just one last thing. Look at me.”

As he stares into lust-blown eyes, it takes every ounce of control not to pin the smaller man to the floor and have him there. “Wear my mark for me?” he shushes the whimper with another kiss. “Wanna do this right, so don’t think I don’t ever want you, ok? I want you so bad, I want to make you mine forever. Want to stay by your side forever like you’ve stayed by me, okay?” Shikamaru nods and Naruto presses their foreheads together. “Words, baby. I need your words that you understand me.” 

“Yes, please. Wanna be yours.” The omega pants before the faintest of smirks appear. “Can you keep kissing me now?”

His shirt and mesh top is removed and then Naruto is surging against him, hands hooking under his thighs to lift him again. Shikamaru gasps in delight, the blond’s talented tongue sliding in to quell the heat that is bubbling inside of him. The feeling of cloth against his chest is as annoying as it is erotic, the fabric catching against his nipples before the omega gets his hands under Naruto’s white shirt and lifts.

They break the kiss so he can tug the garment over the alpha’s head and then Shikamaru presses their bare chests to gether . The omega purrs in delight at the skin on skin contact, but he doesn’t have time to be embarrassed about it as Naruto presses him into the bed.

“Naruto,” he gasps, reaching up to tug at the blond’s pants.  He gets them down to Naruto’s thighs before the alpha kicks them the rest of the way off, boxers and all. His thick cock bobs free, a bead of precum running along the tip, and Shikamaru surges forward to try to taste before a hand clamps down on his neck to hold him to the bed.

“Nu uh, your turn, Lemme see you.” Naruto’s voice is rough and full of demand that the omega freezes with a shiver. “Off, off, baby, c’mon.” Hands move of their own accord to remove his pants, even if it’s something he himself hasn’t come to terms with. Shikamaru can’t help but take a moment as his own cock is freed to compare. His own tip glistened just as much as Naruto’s but that’s where the similarities end. He wasn’t long by any means, nor was he that wide. He’d always believed himself to be average but the alpha was huge. The tip was swollen and purple, where his own remained pink. Of course, unlike Naruto, he knew he had something extra and out of shame or embarrassment, he dropped his hand down to cover between his legs as he pressed his thighs together.

With a snarl, a hand clamps down on his wrist before pinning it above his head. “I said let me see you, omega,” and the Nara bites back his own groan of arousal as more slick drips between his thighs. Naruto couldn’t be this hot, it was unfair, but as Shikamaru looks up at him, the blond licks his lips and he gets the distinct impression he’s about to be devoured before Naruto’s other hand grips his thigh and parts his legs.

“Na-Naruto,” he moans, his tongue thick and heavy in his mouth as blue eyes penetrate his most intimate areas.

“You’re so fucking pretty, Shikamaru, I could look forever.”

His heart clenches in his chest, pounding hard at the compliment. He didn’t think it would do it for him, to be called pretty, but he can feel his thighs get wetter and the blue eyes of the alpha, his alpha, dilate more.

“Kami, I can’t wait to ruin you. So wet for me, only for me.” Shikamaru opens to reply but chokes as fingers prod at his wet folds, pressing deeper until he feels it barely breach him before receding. His pussy clenches around empty air at the tease and he finds himself growling before he can stop it and something inside of him snaps.

“If you’re just going to talk about fucking me, we’re going to have a problem. Actually fuck me or move so I can do it to myself,” he snarls, baring his small fangs at the blond who answers with a snarl of his own at the unintended challenge. He’s feeling wildly out of control despite not being in heat, and he realizes it’s less about being an omega and more just the effect Naruto has on him. An issue the alpha doesn’t seem to have because instead of giving in, Naruto falls forward, lips fastening to his cunt, before sucking hard.

Shikamaru screams before he can think to cover it up, but his hand slaps down over his mouth anyway to muffle it and he’s met with another growl as Naruto pulls away.

“Do I have to tie your hands so you can’t hide?” The alpha’s lips are shiny with slick, causing more to gush out at the delectable sight. He shakes his head violently, not because he doesn’t want to be tied down, but his sanity is fraying and not being able to touch Naruto himself would drive him insane.

“I just need,” he gasps as fingers prod against his hole again before sliding inside. He mewls as the knuckles drag along his inner walls, groaning when the alpha’s palm brushes his neglected cock.

“Don’t worry, baby. I’m going to take care of you. I give my word, and I don’t go back on my word, that’s my ninja way, remember?”

“Asshole,” Shikamaru hisses through clenched teeth as the alpha above him smirks. Like he didn’t know what that would do to him. Like he didn’t know that now every time Naruto spoke of his ninja way, Shikamaru would get hard.

“I think you mean, alpha,” Naruto rumbles before bending down to cut off whatever the omega was going to say with a deep kiss. The distraction works, even as he continues to thrust into him with a finger, and then two. He doesn’t stop until he’s four fingers deep in a tight, omega, virgin pussy that he withdraws, shushing the whine that follows with a final kiss.

Slick coated fingers grab Shikamaru’s hips with the intent to line up, but the omega presses a foot to Naruto’s chest to give them space so he can roll onto his stomach. His body, no instinct, is demanding, and he doesn’t ignore it, pressing his ass high into the air with his legs spread.

“Stop playing and fuck me. Need you. No more waiting.”

It’s only because he’s had years of attempting to control the kyuubi that he doesn’t give into the urge to bury himself to the hilt. Not yet. Instead, he bends forward to lick at the hole again, sucking gently before raising up and lining himself up to slowly press in.

“Look at you, all wet for me,” he gasps as the tip slides in. Shikamaru is hot and almost too tight, punching a groan from the alpha even as the omega mewls from underneath him before trying to press back to get the alpha deeper.

“Naruto, alpha, please.” Shikamaru whimpers as Naruto’s hands on his hips still him. It’s agonizingly slow and he can feel every shift of movement inside of him as Naruto slides deeper. It robs him of breath, causes him to squirm as the alpha finally bottoms out and stills.  “Move, you gotta move, please. Need it.”

His walls clench around the thick cock now inside of him, but it only cools the heat a little. His sanity is continuing to fray and he knows he would float away if Naruto wasn’t grounding him with his cock alone.

“Kami, Shika. Even when you’re so wet, you’re so tight. Going to fuck you to make room for me. Gonna ruin you.”

“Fucking do it!” Shikamaru snarls and Naruto answers with one of his own, hand clamping down on the back of his neck to hold him down as he slides all the way out before slamming back in. The omega claws at the sheets, trying to grab anything to hold on as his mouth opens in a silent scream. He can feel how deep Naruto is going, fucking room inside of him just like he promised. He sobs, feels the beginning of fresh tears fall down his cheeks at the overwhelming pleasure as  Naruto slows down.

“Shika, am I..”

“No, faster, feels good,” he slurs. “Need you. Need more. Can take it.” He reaches back to grab Naruto’s hip with his left hand and encourages him to bury himself again. “Please,” he cries and feels the faintest kiss against his mating bond before the alpha grabs both of his hips and slams into him. This time, there is no stopping as the alpha continues to fuck him. He should have known the blond would bring his enthusiasm into the bedroom, thrusting into him like a jack rabbit. That sends Shika spiraling towards an end that he can’t reach unless Naruto is with him and as the base of the alpha’s cock begins to swell and catch on his walls, he keens encouragingly.

“Knot, need your knot, alpha,” he babbles, rocking backwards to meet those thrusts until the knot swells and starts to lock inside of him. He reaches between his legs to stroke his cock, even as he continues to grind backwards, desperate to have the alpha fill him up. “Need it, fill me up, mark me,” he continues the mantra even as the slapping of hips eases as they become locked together.

“Shika,” Naruto growls, leaning forward to mouth at his neck. It drives the omega insane as he writhes against the hold and causes the alpha to grunt. 

“Fucking mate me, Alpha!” Shikamaru begs and feels the scrape of teeth once, twice and then they’re sinking in. It causes him to shout and soak the sheets beneath him as his cock spurts with his own release. His knees give out as the bond snaps in place and he feels safety and protection through the link. Luckily, Naruto wraps his arms around his waist to hold him up, nuzzling gently at his neck as he’s filled with the alpha’s hot release.

“I got you, Shika. Such a good omega,” he murmurs praises as they’re locked together, eventually rolling them out of the pool of cum and to the side so the alpha can spoon him from behind. “So good to me, so good for me,” he continues to praise, even as he turns Shikamaru’s face to press deep kisses against his lips.

Shikamaru’s entire body still tingles with the aftershocks, leaving him speechless and his brain gloriously empty. The heat is still there, he can feel it far below the surface, but for now, he’s content and sated, floating in bliss in his alpha’s arms.

—xOx—

Things are impossibly easy after that. Of course, Shikamaru had always felt a little invincible with Naruto by his side. The blond has always motivated him and now there is the feeling of safety and protection that he doesn’t want to admit liking. Naruto’s thigh bumps his under the table and Shikamaru has to hide a smile behind his hand.

“So, an omega, huh? Never would have thought that, Shikamaru.” Loveable Choji, as diplomatic and calm as always. Ino however is why he’s amused. The blond had been gawking at him ever since she had sat down at their booth at their barbecue place. The two betas had been curious as to why he was inviting them

“Well, it’s what he deserves for being so prejudiced against them,” Ino huffs and crosses her arms but Shikamaru doesn’t rise to the bait to defend himself. Instead, he merely knocks his knee back against Naruto’s and sighs in boredom until his breath hitches because the alpha keeps their thighs pressed together after. 

“It is what it is, Ino. I was wrong.”

“What, you wrong? Someone check my forehead,” she leans over to Choji, who indulges her as Shikamaru rolls his eyes.

“Ha,” he grunts, only to hear Naruto chuckle beside him. He fixes the blond with a flat look and Naruto holds his hands up in surrender.

“Sorry, Shika. Didn’t mean to.” Naruto smiles and it’s hard not to smile back so instead, he just rolls his eyes again and turns back to the front, only to be met with the Harpy’s stare.

She looks between them, eyes narrowing before she simply mutters a quiet ‘huh,’ before smiling sweetly. Shikamaru doesn’t like it. Ino is up to something, he can tell, but he has no clue what. Whatever it is, he knows it’s going to be trouble for him.

Sure enough, when Ino turns her attention to Naruto, his skin crawls.

“So, Naruto- kun. Our dear, Shika told you he was an omega first? Before his own teammates? You must be something special. So are you wanting to court him then? Cause you know you have to go through us as his best friends.”

Shikamaru has the distinct pleasure of Naruto blushing from the roots of his hair down to his neck, or he would, if he weren’t blushing just as bad.

“Don’t be silly, Ino,” he drawls, leaning back in his chair and smirking when Ino rolls her eyes and grabs her drink. “Courting, really? You think we’re in a fairy tale?”

“Seriously, would it be so bad if we were? I mean, think about it. Love and romance? And alphas being territorial over their omegas? And the claiming mark. Don’t get me started on the claiming mark. You’ve got every girl’s dream right now.”

He already knew Naruto was mischievous, and he finds himself grinning as the alpha’s hand brushes the back of his neck before dipping into the collar of his shirt.  The blond waits until Ino takes a big gulp of her drink before tugging Shikamaru’s collar down, exposing the mating mark. It’s annoying when she spits her tea all over the table, but seeing her splutter and begin yelling, makes it worth it.

Maybe, just maybe, being an omega wouldn’t be that bad after all.

—xOx—

“Were we ever like that, Yo-chan?” Shikaku murmurs as they watch their son and Naruto on the engawa. Someone, likely Shikamaru, had dragged a pillow out there for the blond to rest his head on and the omega was curled into Naruto’s side with his head on his chest. The two appeared to be sleeping but the Elder Naras could hear the purr coming from their son and the answering rumble of a content alpha.

“What are you talking about? We’re still like that. Come on, let’s leave them,” Yoshino grins as she drags her husband for her own cuddles.