Archive of Our Own ^beta

The early morning hour brings in the kind of cold that settles heavily into one’s bones, as dense and compact as the permafrost that has slowly and steadily built under the ground for generations.

He’s lived long enough to know that the outside would still be dark, despite his still closed eyes.

And the warmth and scent of home that’s enveloping him from all sides isn’t giving him the incentive to open them any time soon.

He turns his head to the the side, trying to get comfortable—

—before he finds his nose being tickled, face automatically scrunching at the sensation.

Squinting his eyes open, it takes a while before his vision adjusts to the mostly-darkness.

When it does, it’s to the intricately carved panels that make up the ceiling, and warm, quietly breathing bodies tucked into his own. One arm is completely numb, being used as a pillow by a head, while the other is protectively draped over a smaller back.

Katsuki Bakugou breathes, taking less than a heartbeat to catalog and orient himself with his surroundings.

And nothing is amiss. The den is quiet, if not colder than the night before. His pack is untroubled in sleep, warm and comfortable in his embrace.

Safe.

Once that sinks in, Katsuki feels his instincts settle, exhaling another breath.

He has a lot to do.

First, extricating himself from the nest without waking the rest of his family up. With the recent changes, there’s been a shuffle in sleeping arrangements, in order to protect his mate’s more delicate condition while still providing the warmth and protection his inner Alpha demands for the pack.

Kids can be squirmy little shits while unconscious, and an errant heel can bring much unintended trouble. So Katsuki becoming the literal barricade between them it is, even if he hasn’t gotten that much rest as a result of the occasional elbow or foot digging into his torso.

Anything for his family.

With the utmost care, Katsuki leans over. Takes a moment to breathe deep, saturating his senses with the scent of love and belonging and home, sweetened by the ripe berries they usually pick over the summer. He cradles a dark, curly head after, sliding his other arm out of its confines at the same time. Sensation swiftly returns to the limb, the prickle under his skin increasing in intensity as he slides out between the slumbering bodies.

Then, he looks to his other side, at the smaller bundle curled up in the thick woolen blankets, and couldn’t stop the way his body just… softens, at the sight.

Call it sentiment or instinct; in this case, both are one and the same.

This time, Katsuki moves much slower. As gentle and as deliberate as he can, tucking the covers more securely before lifting the entire weight into his arms.

He will never tell anyone, not even his mate, on how the upper left side of his chest twinges so painfully sweet when he comes face-to-face with the irrevocable reminder of his mortality.

The proof of his—his mate’s—their—legacy.

“Shh.” His palm starts to lightly tap against the side, settling down whatever disruptions he may have caused with his movement. He drops his head down, smiling into the sweetly familiar but still hazy scent.

It would remain indistinct until her first bloom. Personally, he’d prefer for that day to never come.

“Just sleep, baby girl. I have you.”

In his arms, she quietens, face turning towards his bare chest, snuffling as the furrow in her brow disappears. Unable to resist, Katsuki lifts a hand and pokes at her cheek. He marvels at the way the soft chubby cheek just… bounces back into its usual position, once the slight pressure is released.

“Heh.” Katsuki doesn’t stop the grin curling on his lips. “Takin’ after your dam there, sweetheart.”

He has to admit, he and his mate make a dang pretty baby.

(And the next one is gonna be just as fuckin’ adorable.)

Katsuki moves out of the nest and rearranges sleeping positions, setting their child down by her dam’s back. He watches the way she instantly latches onto Katsukl’s mate, short, stubby fingers spreading around the middle of her dam’s back as her face burrows into his shoulder.

There’s no danger here. Even when unconscious, an Omega would place their pups’ safety and comfort above all else, and close proximity is necessary to help encourage physical growth in children and overall deepening of pack ties.

Even now it shows; Katsuki’s mate and pup sinking deeper into the nest, intuitively recognizing each other’s scent and presence as they lay side by side.

Katsuki would have placed their pup at the front, in his Omega’s arms, but the latest addition to their pack brings in additional danger and complications Katsuki doesn’t want to tempt into happening.

His family peacefully sorted out for a few more hours, Katsuki gets to work. The cold is biting against his naked body as he stands up, but by usual standards, a touch warmer than yesterday’s. He dresses himself efficiently, donning multiple layers, sliding his socked feet into boots and tucking shirt hems into thick, woolen pants. He makes sure that his coat is fastened tight and his gloves are properly on.

With an exhale, Katsuki heads outside.

And the air that assaults his lungs when he takes his first step into the yard is crisp, as sharp as ice cracking on a lake’s surface. Yet not as cutting during the winter months, when the air becomes little invisible blades that stab his insides with every inhale. The sky is already bright enough to provide him with some light, despite the sun not yet making a proper appearance on the horizon.

But then and now, his tasks for the day never change.

After finishing his ablutions in the outhouse, he heads to the fence, where a stockpile of dried firewood awaits. Dusting off some of the snow that has gathered overnight, Katsuki takes an entire day’s worth into his arms, movements practiced and easy even as he kicks off the combination of mud and slush on his boots by the front door.

Once inside, he drops the extra wood in its usual spot save for two, which he brings along to the hearth. A check reveals a few embers still glowing, and Katsuki moves fast, introducing wood shavings into the pile and blowing air into the mix to encourage a brighter flame. Fire-making has become second nature to him, and even now his hands move through memory, throwing the logs into the growing fire, stoking and poking at the pit until the right amount of warmth finally washes over him.

Dusting his fingers off, Katsuki takes a quick glance towards the nest, shoulders dropping when the occupants remain asleep. Another measure of their comfort secured, Katsuki heads out again, this time to replenish their water, hefting in a huge block of ice that’s been harvested in the nearby river.

Their supply isn’t running low yet, but you can never have too many. And besides, the weather is always cold enough that the ice wouldn’t melt, even through the summer.

The solid block, dropped in a large barrel, now halfway emptied. Then a pick, stabbed into the ice repeatedly, until it breaks apart. A few sizable chunks, scooped into Katsuki’s gloved hand and placed inside a nearby kettle. And finally, the kettle, closed and placed on top of the hearth’s metal grate.

While the water boils, Katsuki goes out again.

And this time, he isn’t alone.

“Down, boy.” Mighty isn’t so much a pet as he is a pain in the ass, but Katsuki’s reared him from childhood and having a wolf for a companion has some advantages, a competent guard and hunter among them.

… So long as Mighty remembers that he’s actually a massive beast that can tear someone limb from limb, and not a pup that can just jump into Katsuki’s embrace without some serious consequences.

“Down,” Katsuki wheezes, almost knocked on his ass. The wolf’s forelegs slam over his arms, body almost as thick as Katsuki’s shoulders as he tries to stay on his feet. Still, Katsuki scratches under Mighty’s chin after setting the animal down, Mighty trotting after him obediently as he heads to the fence, letting the wolf enter through the opened gate first. “Come on, you. We gotta shovel the snow out and feed the animals.”

In the past, this wasn't Katsuki’s job to take on alone. Chores used to be evenly split between him and his mate when they were newly bonded. But once again, circumstances had forced them to adapt, and he’s not about to force his mate to leave their nest when the Omega is currently going through the most stressful and important job of carrying the next member of their family. Katsuki is doing everything he can to ease that burden, especially since their closest neighbors are more than a stone’s throw away from their farm.

Their pup is also already around the age where she should accompany her parents everywhere to learn their ways of survival. Despite their first child being born an Omega, Katsuki would not compromise on any aspect of her education.

But he and his mate—they were forced to grow up too fast. The day that her eyes will open to the hardships of their life grows closer as the seasons pass.

But not yet. Not today.

Let her be their baby a while longer.

Mighty is hitched onto a small sled, Katsuki grabbing the multiple tools he needs along the way. With spring already nipping at their heels, Katsuki would be letting their sheep graze on the grassy plains soon instead of feeding them like this. But for now, he starts clearing the yard, Mighty pulling and dumping the compacted snow out of their land. Then, they go to the farm, removing the cloth covering the bales of dried hay he harvested over the summer the year before. He forks over multiple bushels of hay onto the sled, before going around the enclosures that kept the animals inside. He tosses their food over the wooden rails, watching with a critical eye as the herd hurries to the edges for sustenance, keeping track if there’s any that are sick or injured.

But fortunately, they seem well, and Katsuki stops at a particular spot to wait, air coming out in small puffs as he leans on the railing.

And he doesn’t have to stay long.

The group eventually thins out, and one eventually emerges, gait steady and assured as it approaches Katsuki, eyes dark but intelligent.

It gently butts Katsuki in the chest, but makes no move to escape from the pen. The ram is the undisputed leader of the flock, horns large and sharp, woolen coat thick, body double in size as the ewes they’re raising.

But against all odds, Oru remains even-tempered and calm, except during breeding season.

Much like its human master.

Similar to Mighty, Katsuki gives the ram a scratch under the chin, briefly looking at the horns to see if it needs filing down. “Yeah, I know, you miss him too. He’ll be out here soon.”

Another nudge to Katsuki’s ribs, before Oru bends down and starts eating his fill. His pace measured and regal, befitting the chief of a large and prosperous tribe.

Katsuki watches him a second more, before vaulting over the fence to get on with the rest of his chores: water the sheep, shoveling the shit out to be turned into fertilizer, and to milk the ewes. In a few days, once spring is in full swing, he’ll invite some of the knuckleheads he knows for the yearly shearing. It’s going to be an event, like most of the work that needs to be done at a large scale.

Jobs on the farm are never ending, but as far as Katsuki’s concerned, it’s a nice warm up for the day ahead. It’s grueling work, but honest, and the promise of quiet solidarity and being one with nature is worth it compared to living in the nearest town.

Besides, the said town’s just half a day’s ride away. Katsuki’s willing to trade off a few things to live a happy, content life with his mate and pups, but completely cutting themselves off from their families and possible help are out of the question.

By the time he’s done, the sun has already crested over the distance, and just steadily rising higher. Despite the cold, Katsuki’s sweating buckets, and has draped his overcoat over Mighty, who has followed along wherever he went, bringing Katsuki’s tools on his sled.

Katsuki covers his eyes as he gauges the position of the sun.

All he needs to do left is to ready the wagon, saddle the ponies, and set Mighty loose on the plains for his own meal.

But otherwise, the farm is set.

Just in time for breakfast.

When he enters the den again, the atmosphere is different.

It feels alive.

The fire in the hearth continues to burn. But now there’s a touch of life permeating the space, earlier filled by the steady, rhythmic cadence of silence. The clatter of clay against ceramic and wood. The bubble of rapidly heating liquids inside its metal vessels.

The string of notes that now dances through the air, nonsensical and slightly off-key, but the cheer and lightheartedness is unmistakable.

Katsuki feels the corner of his lips pulling up at the sound. Forgoes hanging up his coat and scarf and leans against the doorframe instead, gaze immediate in their focus on the most delightful, wondrous sight in existence.

As a kid, he never thought that he could have this. Him. They grew up in the same village together, but naturally, being born as different genders, their interactions had only consisted of passing glances and small acknowledgements, always, always in the presence of other people. It wasn’t so bad when they were children, but the moment they’ve hit double digits, they’ve been effectively barred from meeting each other alone.

Besides, there was no time for playing anymore. They’ve been whisked away by respective family members, preparing for their future roles as their first bloom draws closer by the day. For Katsuki, it means being hauled out by the scruff of his collar into the endless tundra and up the mountains, learning how to hunt, how to build, how to provide. As an Alpha he will be the one to defend and look after his future mate and pack, according to his Alpha Uncle who handled most of his early education, and no Omega or Beta will look twice in his direction if he can’t even prove himself that much.

(And in his situation, he has to be better, try harder, to make up for all the mistakes he’s done, the pain he’s inflicted on the person he should have shielded and sheltered from the very beginning.)

Katsuki has always excelled in everything he’s done.

And it’s all for one purpose.

“Ah! Kacchan, there you are! Good morning!”

Katsuki feels his smile broadening, growing tender, and he doesn’t care how much of a fool he must look like right now.

(His reason for living.)

“Izuku.”

His mate is standing by the dining table, halfway in preparations for their meal. The batter is already made, a wooden stirrer twisted between a pair of palms, the containers of sugar and salt open, flour sifter already showing use at the corner of the bowl. The Omega is dressed much lighter compared to Katsuki, the hearth and walls providing additional insulation and warmth, allowing whomever’s within sight to see one of the rarest sights that can be offered to someone who isn’t a part of the pack.

The sloping curve of a stomach, slight, but unmistakable in its appearance.

It’s enough to make Katsuki’s mouth water, his chest to expand, a maelstrom of emotions—prideloveconcernpossessionmine—surging and freezing and threatening to trap him in their depth and intensity.

(A prison he would happily and willingly cage himself into, the key thrown into the abyss, never to be seen again.)

Katsuki doesn’t hesitate. Lets himself be pulled through by their shared bond, the most primal, innate parts of his soul soothed and tempered when its other—better—half is now within the confines of his embrace.

A delighted chirp, the slighter body tucking itself more securely into his arms. “Hi. Farm chores done?”

Katsuki simply grunts back, face firmly stuck into his mate’s neck, nosing along the faded but still raised imprint of his teeth around the Omega’s scent gland. He inhales deep, sinking into the wooden, grounded scent of the forest that’s always been a part of his mate, hands come up to slide under the other’s navel, the distention sizable enough to still fit between his palms.

Here, in this space and time, Katsuki is at his calmest.

Quiet laughter. A hand reaches up to pat at the side of Katsuki’s head, almost coddling in its indulgence. Katsuki firmly kicks out the small part of him that’s annoyed and chooses to feel gratified instead. “Tea and breakfast will be ready soon. I’m sorry I can’t be more help outside than I should have been.”

“Don’t worry ‘bout it.” Like Katsuki would have him lugging heavy shit around, with his condition. “You have bigger things to worry about.” His fingers flex over the tauter, rounder skin. “Like pup number two.”

“They’re certainly bigger than the first, for sure,” Izuku agrees, their heads moving in sync to glance at the nest on the other side of the room, where their first continues to sleep soundly. Izuku’s other hand shifts, smaller palm and finger covering one of Katsuki’s own. “Hopefully this one will be an Alpha.”

Katsuki muffles a snort into his Omega’s nape, shaking his head. “Like I care about that.”

(When their baby girl had been born, Izuku had asked him, in the darkest, most quiet hours of the night, if Katsuki’s disappointed that their firstborn wasn’t an Alpha. Izuku had held her to his chest, skin to skin, staring at him with those jeweled green eyes that, back then, seemed both unflinching and inscrutable.

In hindsight, perhaps it’s Izuku’s way to protect himself against the pain and devastation that seemed almost certain, simply waiting for Katsuki to berate him for not accomplishing his duty properly.

But Katsuki simply reached over to tuck the blanket around his mate and pup, shaking his head.

“She’s fuckin’ perfect.”

His hand lifted, palm following the curve of Izuku’s cheek, his thumb stroking the constellation of dots on his most beloved’s face.

“You both are. And she’s ours.”)

In the present, Izuku hums back, stroking Katsuki’s rough, weather-beaten knuckles. “Still, I’d like to even out the odds. And if they’re born an Alpha, they’ll be the one to protect and defend their older Omega sister when the time comes.”

“Oi,” Katsuki growls, gnawing his displeasure on Izuku’s collar. He doesn’t like this kind of future talk. “Don’t count me out just yet, I can still protect our babies, damnit.”

None of his pups would have to turn to each other, not if he’s there to help.

Izuku chuckles back. The fingers scratching against the side of Katsuki’s head curl into his hair, the blond choosing to ignore his Omega’s amused, placating tone. “Yes dear, of course.” Izuku’s head turns, a quick press of lips onto his cheek. “Can you wake Eri up and get her ready for the day? We should eat and head out soon.”

Katsuki nods, taking one more second to relish in his mate’s scent and presence, before reluctantly untangling himself, rubbing the swell of his mate’s stomach in parting. That gets him another laugh, full of affection this time, and Katsuki pinches Izuku’s ass in retaliation, smirking at the yelp escaping afterwards.

Serves him right.

When he approaches the nest, he’s treated to the sight of their first pup lovingly wrapped in the thicker quilts, enough to keep her snug and cozy even without the additional heat permeating the den.

Technically, childcare was also an Omega’s duty. But as Katsuki learned in the short time he’s bonded, being a mate meant being there for each other, supporting and taking on each other’s burdens, no matter what their supposed ‘roles’ in the house should be.

And besides, there’s no hardship in spending more time with his little girl. Kids grow up painfully fast, and since Eri is an Omega, Katsuki won’t have as much time with her, both of them already preparing for her future mate and subsequent new pack. She won’t be truly gone of course, but she would never be wholly theirs.

Maybe it’s too early to mourn, but she’s their first pup.

(Eri will always be a little more special than her younger—and potential future—siblings, even if either of them don't say it out loud.)

Katsuki sits down at the edge of the nest, unwrapping Eri from her unintended confines. They already have a routine, and it’s the most foolproof way of waking up little girls without said little girl becoming cranky or grumpy in the process.

“Hey, baby. Time to wake up.” Gentle pokes and strokes seem to do the trick, and slowly but surely their pup starts to wiggle, brow wrinkling adorably. She flops to her belly, and Katsuki can’t stop the snort falling from his lips as she lays spread-eagled on the sheets.

She’s so much like her dam, despite having Katsuki’s coloring. “Eri, come on. Wake up now, we have a long day ahead of us.”

It takes a few more coaxes, but eventually she stirs, her round eyes staring up at him sleepily. “Da?”

Katsuki grins, leaning down to sniff and scent at her cheeks, chest warming at the giggles it elicited. He coaxed her to sit up, smoothing down the quite impressive bedhead she’s sporting. “Come on, up. We’re going somewhere today.”

“Da and Ma go with Eri?” Eri mumbles back, rubbing at her eyes. Katsuki hums, and at the corner of the den, there’s the recognizable sound of batter sizzling in an oil-filled pan.

“That’s right. Ma is also making pancakes today.”

Eri visibly brightens. “Pancakes! With berry?”

“Mhmm.” Katsuki wouldn’t be able to stop her if he tried, the promise of her favorite food making Eri stand up and go over to the washing area of their den. Hiding a smile, Katsuki follows, getting her a bucket to wash her face in. Eri winces when the ice-cold water touches her skin, but she’ll eventually get used to it, and low temperature is a much more effective jolt to the senses.

And Katsuki’s timing couldn't have been more perfect; once Eri is dressed in more layers, they return back to the dining table, where his mate has just placed down the last dishes for their morning meal. A quick kiss to Izuku’s hair in gratitude, helping him on his chair, and Katsuki sits down, placing Eri on his lap.

That gets him a chiding look from his Omega, but Katsuki resolutely shakes his head.

(The chair he’s carving for her isn’t ready yet, all right? The legs are still uneven and he has to sand and varnish it down to prevent any splinters! It’s dangerous, and she’s still small enough to fit over his knees—)

The platter of fried pancakes is lightly steaming. The jars of heavy cream and fruit jam are also opened, made from last year’s summer harvest, alongside cups of hot tea and cold water. With a smile, Izuku gives Eri the stirrer, both of them looking on fondly when the girl brightens and starts to lick the batter off.

Breakfast is simple, but filling. Katsuki recharges from earlier work, while Izuku eats much more slowly, leaning over once in a while to wipe the mess off of Eri’s mouth. Occasionally he gives her another piece, topped generously with jam and cream, while Katsuki alternates between eating his portion and replacing his mate’s share, giving him a stern look when the Omega gives the pancake a considering look.

Contentment rests. Sometimes they are quiet, sometimes not, but today is different, Eri babbling her excitement when Izuku shares the plans for the day.

“So Eri meets Uncles and Aunties today?!”

“Yes,” Izuku answers, all affection and care, exchanging a similar look with Katsuki. “We’ll be going into the forest to gather firewood to keep us warm until next year. Nashi, Mikan and the rest of your friends will be there too.”

“Yay! Eri missed her friends!” Eri cheers, and starts to talk about what they’ll play together once all of them have met. Wood gathering is an important, regular, yearly event for everyone in the community since keeping themselves warm through the extreme cold is imperative, though they tend to plan the outing in separate groups.

This year, they will be going with Katsuki and Izuku’s friends, unlike last time, when they spent the day with their family and relatives. To make up for foregoing with the families, Katsuki has decided to get enough not just for his pack, but for some of his relatives, who won’t be able to make the trip.

After eating, it’s all precision and coordination. Katsuki piles up all the utensils they used for washing, while Izuku starts to pack everything they’ll need for the journey. Eri, after a moment of indecision, decides to join Katsuki’s mate, and he doesn’t have to hide his proud smile, seeing the little girl’s intensely concentrated face while she brings her dam the things he gently requests.

It’s just a reminder of how much she took after him, red eyes and light hair included.

But the roundness of her eyes and cheeks, her earnest sweetness— that is all Izuku.

… So’s her occasional bouts of stubbornness, but it’s just one of the many things he loves about his family.

“Oh no you don’t!” Katsuki hears his mate call out, just as he starts to put away the last of the clean dishes. Her shriek of defiance is entertaining, and Katsuki turns just in time to see Eri running away from Izuku, who has one hand by the hip, unimpressed, pieces of her outer clothes clutched in the other. “Young lady, you come back here this instant! You’re not properly dressed yet!”

Before, Katsuki would have been content to let Izuku chase Eri around. The older Omega would catch her and she’ll be fussed into submission eventually.

But this time around, Katsuki moves in quick strides, snagging the troublemaker by the back of her collar and dragging her into his arms before she manages to get through the entryway that leads to the front door. His mate shouldn’t be running around in his condition. “Nope. C’mon kiddo, don’t make things hard for your dam.”

“But Da, nooo!” She flails against his hold, bottom lip jutting out petulantly when Katsuki places her right in front of Izuku, hands on her shoulders to make sure she stays put. “Ma, too hot!”

“No buts,” Izuku says sternly, tucking thick, knitted gloves onto small toddler hands. “I won’t have you losing your fingers or toes out there.”

Their little girl soon resembled less of a child and more of a ball of dyed sheep wool, but Izuku is adamant in covering every inch of skin he can see until he’s satisfied, Eri’s brilliantly red eyes the only part visible through the layers of insulating cloth.

She’s also waddling when Izuku decides he’s finished, and Katsuki doesn’t stop the snicker from escaping. She’s adorable, always is and will be, but—

“Sweetheart. She’s gonna roll out the door at this rate.”

Izuku winces, biting his lip as he straightens back out with Katsuki’s assistance. “But she’s so small, Kacchan. And it’s the first time we’ll be out in the cold for a long time.”

“Relax. She’ll be running around with the other brats and keeping herself warm in no time,” Katsuki points out. “And we’d have the other knuckleheads with us. Pretty sure they’re grown up enough to watch over a few kids.” He pauses.

Then snorts.

”You know, so long as she can run in the first place.”

Izuku sighs, leaning into his side, Katsuki taking his weight easily. “I know. I’m just being silly, wanting to make sure she’s safe.”

Katsuki rubs the Omega’s lower back in an attempt to soothe the burgeoning strain and concern. “She’s our baby, Deku. ‘Course you’d worry. ‘S not silly at all.” Katsuki refuses to make his mate feel terrible about caring for their pup. Katsuki has vague memories of his own Omega sire being the same, before his Alpha dam managed to convince him that Katsuki’s ready for it.

And like her, Katsuki’s there to be the assuring, steadying rock his family needs him to be.

“But she’ll be fine.” Accepting responsibility early ensures that one doesn’t stray from the right path. Katsuki learned that lesson as a pup, and he would do right by his daughter by doing the same. “She’s our kid. She’ll need to be tough. She has a long way ahead of her.”

It doesn’t take long for Izuku to exhale and glance up at him, faintly smiling.

“You’re right, Kacchan.” A quick slide of eyes to the side to make sure the young one’s attention is thoroughly occupied, then Katsuki’s pulled down by the arm, a mouth closing over the teeth imprints he’s made on Katsuki’s neck in turn.

He gives a gentle suck.

Katsuki’s blood zings, the tips of his ears burning as his Omega moves back, forest emerald eyes brimming with undisguised affection. It’s a gesture much more intimate than a kiss on the lips. “Thank you. I’ve been very lucky to have an Alpha who cares for me so much.”

“The he—ck you’re talkin’ about.” Katsuki mutters back, aware of the young, impressionable ears still in the room. He lightly pinches Izuku’s cheek in retaliation, chuckling at the “Ow!” that produced, because one doesn’t do something like that unless they want to spend a scandalously long time in between the sheets of the nest.

But his fingers release as quick as the pressure given, spreading them across the curved, soft, expanse of skin that’s dusted with starlight.

“If there’s anyone who’s lucky right now, it sure ain’t you.”

Katsuki hears Izuku’s breath hitch, and the heat over his ears worsens. But the words are honest, and one he will not take back.

(He had fought—he had waited, hoping against hope and proving what he can until there’s nothing else that can be offered to master, just for a chance, for that short, lingering thought that he would be worthy of the Omega’s hand. He will not dishonor Izuku by stealing him away, nor have Izuku’s family think of him as a craven or a wretch.

It was their parents who eventually finalized their match. And Katsuki wouldn’t be able to articulate how grateful he was to have the honor of bonding with the Midoriya’s only child, their precious Omega pup, whose worth could never be bought or replaced by any material possession in the world.)

Izuku nuzzles his face into his touch, expression melting into one of utmost adoration, and Katsuki can’t say that his face isn’t doing the same.

“Ma! Da!”

Both of them look down, startled, seeing Eri tugging on their legs with a plaintive, pleading expression.

“Out! Go now! Please?”

It’s Katsuki who recovers first, barking out a short laugh as he kneels in front of her, tugging the belt over her outer coat loose.

“Sure, pup. Let’s get you outta a few of these first.”

Once he’s sure that Eri’s both padded enough for warmth while remaining mobile, it’s their turn to get dressed. Katsuki’s thick, red scarf is instantly wrapped around his mate’s neck, adding to the dark brown, fur-lined coat, gloves, and hat Izuku normally wears outdoors. His mate’s condition isn’t immediately apparent in this get-up, but the more protection he has against the elements, the better.

“Kacchan, it’s all right, my hat’s enough—”

“Like hell it is. It’s not just you.” He might have heard from one of the Betas in the village that pregnant people get cold faster. While it might be an old wives’ tale, he’s not taking any chances. “I’m not letting you both freeze out there.”

The look his Omega gives him is exceedingly fond and a touch exasperated, but obediently tucks the tail ends of the scarf out of sight, so Katsuki considers that one a win.

“Puppy!” Eri shrieks, squeezing past Katsuki and racing out from the opened front door and into the yard. “Come!”

“Mighty, heel!” Katsuki shouts as the wolf bounds over the little girl, barks loud, tail wagging as he almost bowls her over in his excitement. “Dammit, she’s breakable, you dumb mutt!”

“He’s not a mutt, Kacchan,” Izuku laughs as he follows after, one hand cradling the small swell of his stomach as he watches their two pups, both human and not, frolic around in the snow. “You’ll hurt his feelings if you say that.”

“Yeah, well, he acts like one,” Katsuki mutters, tetchy, watching the way the beast snuffles and licks all over Eri’s face, her delighted giggles muffled by the massive animal’s shaggy, fur-lined neck. “And he’s not gonna understand anyway. Now, don’t move from this spot,” he levels a mild glare towards his Omega. “I’ll bring the ponies around. We’re probably running late.”

“I would have liked to see Oru for a little while,” Izuku sighs back, but once again, conceded to Katsuki’s wishes. With the ground permanently iced over, the risk is too great, even for a quick moment with a beloved pet that’s dearly missed.

But the small frown on his mate’s face proves too much to dismiss.

“I’ll bring you to him tomorrow.” Katsuki says instead, and is gifted with a grateful smile before calling out to their daughter. “Eri! Come keep Mama company while Da gets the horses.”

“Okay!” She bounds over to them, Mighty trotting after her and taking point on Izuku’s other side, guarded and watchful. That gets the wolf a ruffle to the head, while a smaller hand grasps his mate’s.

All happening at the corner of Katsuki’s eye, as he leads the ponies to where they wait. He settles the steeds with one hand, then loads the last of their cargo, before focusing on his family. He helps Izuku at the front first, going slow to make sure no accidents or slips occur. Eri gets tossed onto the wagon after, right beside her dam, her burst of surprised laughter music to their ears.

Izuku gasps, wrapping his arms around the pup to keep her steady. “Kacchan, careful!”

“Nah, she loves it.” Katsuki has calculated to make sure that neither of them would get hurt. “Mighty, guard the farm.” He’s put everything his mate has packed at the back, and he knows better than to question Izuku’s efficiency. “Eri, keeping your sibling safe?”

Eri places her arms over Izuku’s stomach, giving him a serious nod. “Yep! Baby is safe! Ma, little brother or sister no hurt.”

Izuku’s expression is soft, his hand tucking a strand of silver hair under her cap, before being placed around her shoulder. “Of course, Eri. Mama will be careful. Such a good sibling you are already.”

Eri beams back, before turning to Mighty, who hasn’t left his spot by the front door. “Aw. Mighty not come?”

“No, dearest. Mighty has to stay here and defend our home,” Izuku explains to her, smiling at the wolf. “Oru would be lonely without his friend. We don’t want that, right?”

Eri seems to ponder on this for a short moment, before nodding. “Mn! Mighty, good boy! Stay with Oru, okay?”

That has the wolf wagging his tail, barking his assent, and Katsuki hides his bemused smile as he clambers on beside his mate, taking the reins. “It’s gonna be a long ride, so prepare your butts.”

“Kacchan!” That gets him a slap to the arm, but the high giggles that ensue makes Katsuki unrepentant, a wider grin overtaking his face.

With a snap of his wrist, the wagon starts to move, out into the plains, into the wide and great unknown.

But with his family by his side, Katsuki is unafraid.

The forest they’re going to is by the edges of the steppes, right where the foot of the mountains starts, with trees and shrubbery sprawling broadly and upwards as far as the eyes can see.

The distance is not insignificant, still walkable, but infinitely faster with the help of transportation. The road they’re on has already partially thawed by the many carriages and wagons that go through the same path. The mixture of mud, puddles and snow makes their journey more slow-going, but it’s nothing their ponies can’t handle.

Besides, the tundra is not without its amusements. Every so often, Izuku’s mate would point out an animal that’s skittering or flying over the plains, to their pup’s awe and amazement. There’s even consideration for Katsuki to stop the wagon to hunt down one of the animals that’s roaming around, but they’re pressed for time as it is, and they would be forgiven for not being able to provide their share of food for the party.

It’s not the first time someone’s more delicate condition becomes a legitimate, acceptable excuse, and it definitely won’t be the last.

Izuku is just happy to lean against his Alpha and let him entertain their pup, whose curiosity about their world has yet to be sated. It’s something she gets from him, and Izuku would never begrudge their daughter the opportunity to gain more knowledge. The little one in his womb has been sapping more and more of his energy as of late, and Izuku thought it prudent to rest as much as he can for the gathering ahead.

As an Omega, Izuku did not have the privilege or luxury to choose his own mate. That was a decision reserved for his parents—in his case, his Beta dam—who was well within her right to sell him off to the highest bidder in order to secure good land and cattle for herself. Doubly so in their situation, since his dam had been unbonded, and his sire was from a neighboring tribe over the mountains who had died before he came to know of Izuku’s existence.

It’s only through the grace of the village chief where they moved into that a disgraced Beta woman was able to live a relatively peaceful and untroubled life, taking both of them under his sphere of influence and protection.

Even going above and beyond the call of duty, by taking Izuku’s dam as his bondmate.

And it’s Izuku's father in all but blood—Toshinori Yagi—who had the power to make Izuku’s life one of misery or bliss, depending on which way the wind blew.

It was a sword that constantly hung over his head the moment he had experienced his first heat. That’s not to say that Izuku couldn’t… engineer his own bonding, getting caught being too close with another Alpha or Beta alone being the most scandalous among the common methods. His father is a kind and gentle man, raising him as the child he never had, but it had come with expectations, as well as a duty that Izuku was indebted to fulfill.

Their village was peaceful and had no quarrels with the other nearby tribes. However, in their life, such a state of tranquility was never meant to last, with danger and potential wars always skirting at the edges of their lands.

At one point, he was almost betrothed to Shouto Todoroki, the fourth Alpha son of one of the village elders. It was more than he could have hoped. Shouto was a good man and had always been a good and close friend. He would be taken care of, and becoming his mate would allow Izuku to live a contented and secure life.

But it would never be more, and a part of Izuku would forever mourn the loss of a great love that his dam had spoken of with such wistfulness and care, no matter its tragic ending.

And yet.

No one had expected Katsuki Bakugou.

His precious Kacchan, who had, in their youth, teased and bullied Izuku far too much for being born to an unbonded dam. Who had once looked on in incomprehension and confusion when Izuku’s father continued to relentlessly and unreservedly dote on him.

Izuku couldn’t blame his Alpha’s younger self back then. He was raised in a proper family, having parents who loved him perhaps a touch too much for being the only gift that’s bestowed onto them.

But as a pup, he had been upset, sad that bright, determined, amazing Kacchan refused to be his friend, forcing Izuku to experience both his first real love and heartbreak in one fell swoop.

Katsuki has always exceeded expectations, in all things.

The distance between them helped. The pups who can wrestle and play with each other in the safety of a neighbor’s den became a memory of the past when there were lessons on embroidery, cooking, cleaning, and homemaking to be had. Izuku’s dowry had to be completed before his first bloom, including his trousseau, and he had no relatives to help him finish the detailed embroidery on his wedding gown, save his dam.

(But thankfully, fortunately, he had friends who were all too happy to add their personal designs onto his shamefully plain matrimonial cloth.

And the relieved tears he shed once the final stitch had been placed is nothing short of a complete waterfall.)

Some of his gratitude can also be attributed to Mitsuni Bakugou, now his uncle through marriage. He has dragged away his rebellious nephew and put him to work in the man’s home farm that’s almost in the middle of nowhere. Mitsuni’s mate, Yoichi, has a frail constitution and can’t do the more strenuous, demanding tasks.

(They’ve always been a model couple all throughout Izuku’s childhood, the epitome of Alpha and Omega that Izuku has aspired to have whenever they visited the village during those rare times Auntie Yoichi’s body became strong enough to make the trip.

Uncle Mitsuni, stoic and gruff, and yet so evident in his thoughtfulness and care. Auntie Yoichi, his devotion and love just as stark, if not more so, due to his perceived shortcomings.

Izuku wanted to have that life. Desperately.)

By the time Katsuki returns to the village from under his uncle’s vigilant and firm eye, he’s… changed.

For the better.

And Izuku is still helplessly, catastrophically, enamored with him.

He had thought, at that moment, that it couldn’t be Katsuki. His father and Elder Enji had progressed much in their talks about his and Shouto’s union, and Izuku loved his father too much to become another disappointment.

He could be happy with Shouto. Could allow himself to love the quiet, serious, dedicated Alpha, who never once insulted or mocked Izuku’s lack of a sire, who had looked and interacted with him with only the highest respect and thoughtfulness.

But he wasn’t Katsuki. He wasn’t the one that Izuku’s soul yearned for.

Then his dam approached him, the night before the official announcement.

“Izuku, tell me. Is this something you want? Is Shouto your Alpha?”

Izuku would have answered yes. He was supposed to.

Was preparing himself to.

But that wasn’t the word that escaped him when he finally broke down in front of her.

Calling the aftermath a disaster was putting it lightly. His dam talked to his father immediately, and the next day, his father summoned the Bakugous into their home.

The head of their pack, Mitsuki—Mother—arrived immediately.

And Katsuki was with her.

Izuku wasn’t privy to the conversation that ensued. But whatever the Bakugous had put forth to present Katsuki as the better match had Elder Enji livid. He had called off their betrothal at once, leaving Izuku to confess the truth to Shouto.

Shouto had accepted the change with understanding and grace, despite the shock and hurt brimming in his beautiful grey-blue eyes. Izuku didn’t deserve him, never had and never would.

For both of them, it was better this way.

(Until now, Shouto remains one of his closest, steadfast friends, happier with the mate and pups that he loves. Izuku is pleased for him, because while he and Shouto would have been good for one another, they wouldn’t be at their best.

He—Shouto—were worthy of something better.)

Afterwards it’s a whirlwind of courtship gifts and family gatherings, as the village geared up for the first wedding of that year.

They were the first pair in their age group to become mates, a cascade of ceremonies following after.

They couldn’t be happier when Izuku became pregnant within their first year of bonding. Despite her relatively small size as a newborn, their first pup had been easy to carry, Izuku experiencing mild, almost negligible symptoms.

Then Eri dragged him through a labor that took almost an entire day. A day and night that Izuku can scarcely remember the details of, drowning in absolute terror, delirious and agonized and—

(“Kacchan, promise me, save our pup, I don’t care, save her—!”)

It didn’t come to that point, Izuku was perfectly fine afterwards, but it didn’t excuse the stricken, haunted look that remained on his Alpha’s face for days.

If Katsuki holds on to them too tightly for the next few weeks, refusing to leave the den save for hunting and trading, Izuku lets him, heart aching in guilt for what he put his Alpha through. Eri grows healthily, but Izuku can’t make himself renounce his words.

It’s a feeling only a parent would understand.

He just wishes that he won’t cause his mate pain for forcing his hand.

But everything becomes better eventually. Katsuki stops being so guarded and careful with him, and Izuku's heart lightens in his chest. Eri passes her first few months, then her first year.

And when Eri became old enough, Izuku thought it’s time they grow their pack again.

His mate took some convincing, still remembering what happened during Eri’s birth, but they’ve always wanted to have a big family.

It’s that wish that leads them to the now, Izuku keeping Eri secure on her seat, chuckling and nodding along with whatever she points out to in the distance. His other hand drifts to his stomach, smiling at the little bubbles and flutters he can now feel inside, but still too weak to show to his mate.

He feels Katsuki’s arm shift under his cheek, and lifts his face, shaking his head at the unasked question of concern.

In a few weeks, perhaps.

Izuku soon straightens out when they finally hit the line of trees, making sure Eri keeps far away from the branches that are sticking over the road. They’re close to the meeting point, and while they’re going to spend time with friends, there’s still some propriety that must be maintained in public.

Their little girl is all but bouncing in excitement, and Izuku tries to calm her down, not missing the fondly amused look from his Alpha.

(With where they live, children are hard to come by. Their pups will need each other as the years pass, and if they could, they would not have Eri experience a lonely, solitary childhood.

Not like them.)

They eventually come to a clearing, and the sight of other wagons, with their ponies scrounging on the nearby glade, has Izuku smiling.

The sun is in between the horizon and the middle of the sky, but their friends are already hard at work, the dull thunk of blades hitting wood interspersed with the sounds of laughter and conversation.

It’s not long before someone notices their arrival.

“Mama! Eri’s here!”

Izuku laughs, especially when his daughter raises her hand and furiously waves back. “Mikan! Chuu! Nashi!”

“Calm down, kiddo,” Katsuki snorts as he stops their wagon at a free spot, jumping down after. “You’ll be with them soon.”

“Oh, hey! The Bakugous are here!” It’s Eijirou who comes up to them first, already covered in a light sheen of sweat. “We thought you’d be late! Road still good?”

“Catch up later, Shitty Hair!” Izuku’s mate hollers before he can answer. “Help Izuku and Eri first, then help me get the stuff out!”

“Oh, right!” Izuku assists Eri down first, the little girl easily gathered and bounced a little in the man’s muscular arms. “Well, if it isn’t the pretty little lady! I missed you, Eri!”

“I missed you too, Uncle Eiji!” Eri bubbles happily, pressing a noisy kiss to his cheek. “Auntie Mina and Chuushi here?”

“You bet! Chuu’s been looking for you, actually! They’re right over there. Why don’t you play with him, hm?”

“Okay!” Eijirou barely sets her down before Eri’s already off like an arrow shot towards the pile of pups already engrossed in their game. She’s greeted with hugs and cheers, welcomed into the fold without a thought, and Izuku exchanges a pleased, fond smile with his Alpha’s best friend.

“Don’t worry, Denki’s looking after them. He acts like he’s hardly older a pup himself.” Izuku takes the Beta’s hand with a smile, lightly scenting each other in greeting as he steps down from the wagon. It speaks of how much trust his Alpha has in Eijirou that he’s allowing the man to take charge of his family’s safety. It also helps that the redhead already has a mate of his own, who’s now coming up to meet them both. “It’s been a while! How are you, Izuku?”

“I’m doing well, Eijirou.” Izuku answers with a chuckle, steadying himself once on the ground, a hand immediately covering his stomach. That draws in a knowing glance, and Izuku can’t help but blush.

Still, he doesn’t look away, because he’s not ashamed of giving his Alpha another member of their pack.

“KIRISHIMA! I THOUGHT I TOLD YOU TALKING LATER!”

“Well, I’ve been summoned,” the redhead sighs back with a slight roll of his eyes. Izuku can’t help the laugh that escapes at the man’s conspiratorial look, waving the Beta off to help his Alpha with the load.

And he doesn’t have to wait for long, because Eijirou’s mate replaces him within the span of a heartbeat, the woman as bright-eyed and bushy-tailed as always.

“Zuzu!” Mina hugs him tight, taking care to not squish his lower half, which Izuku appreciates. She tucks his arm into her elbow, starting the slow, cautious trek back to where they’ve set up camp. “My goodness, it’s been a while! You’re glowing!”

“Growing fatter, you mean,” Izuku answers wryly, willing to be a bit more candid with his fellow wife with his mate out of earshot. “Not that I don't adore my pups, but this one’s taking much more out of me than Eri did.”

She nods sagely in turn, with the commiserating expression of someone who has gone through it too. “You look a bit bigger this time around too. But not as big as I was with Chuu, I think.”

Izuku grins. “You’ve made your opinions well known when you gave birth to him.” He had been there to help out, and the threats and curses Mina snarled out at her mate during the entire time has become legendary within their friend group. Eijirou is quite a built man, even for a Beta, and Chuushi has inherited much from his sire, to Mina’s distress.

They pause in their talk once they arrive at the spot where the rest of the wives are at, all already hard at work while the sun steadily climbs up the sky. A bit ways off, the Alphas and Beta husbands are also in the middle of chopping wood, their completed stack growing larger as they segment and quarter the fallen tree trunks into more manageable pieces of log.

At the end of the day, whatever they’ve gathered will be aired outside to dry for the next half year, ready to be used for winter.

There are scattered greetings all around, the woodcutters opting to wave at them from their distance, while the wives subjected Izuku to many a hug and/or a light scenting. It doesn’t take long for his mate and Eijirou to follow, depositing their belongings on the ground. Izuku opens his arms automatically for his mate’s outer coat, folding it properly for safekeeping while he watches his Alpha adjust his thick, long-sleeved shirt. It wouldn’t do if his clothes got in the way of the ax blade. “Be careful, okay?”

“I’ll be fine. You good here?” Izuku nods. “Where’s Eri?” His Alpha continues to ask gruffly, and Izuku nudges his head towards where the pups have been busy. “They’ve been getting acquainted again.”

For a moment, his mate squints in the direction of the children, eyes narrowing at Nashi for the briefest moment before turning back to Izuku. “Okay. Don’t stay on your feet too long.”

Izuku wants to tell him that it’s probably too early to antagonize Shouto’s firstborn Alpha son when they’re still too young for potential arrangements.

But he knows that thinking of their daughter’s impending future nuptials makes his Kacchan extremely grumpy. So Izuku hides his amusement the best he can, and raises his wrist, rubbing his pulse at his mate’s scent gland.

It’s an appropriate, if not exceedingly affectionate, goodbye towards one’s mate, considering Katsuki would just be within sight range. “Lunch will be in a few hours, so work hard, Kacchan.”

His mate catches his fingers and turns his head instead, startling Izuku. Feels his face heat up as the Alpha’s nose skims along the thin strip of skin between his glove and coat, right over his pulse point.

“Hey, guys! Katsuki’s here!” They hear Eijirou calling out. “Now we can really start with the hacking!”

But Izuku isn’t listening, eyes wide as he watches his mate breathe in where Izuku’s scent is the strongest.

Without another word, Katsuki lets go before following the redhead, looking for all the world like he hasn’t just displayed his possessiveness for his Omega mate in a borderline improper way. “Yeah, yeah, let’s get this over with, extras.”

Izuku gapes at the blond’s back, knowing he’s red up to his ears, and it’s the resounding coos that makes Izuku snap out of it, shy pleasure and mortification settling in quickly.

“You’re as lovely-dovey as always,” Tsuyu remarks in her usual straightforward and kind manner, making the flush on Izuku’s face deepen.

“T-That’s not—!” Whatever Izuku wants to answer is dashed away when he’s quickly ushered into the seat nearest to the flames, an extra blanket draped over his shoulders. Their teasing, however, is good-natured, and soon Izuku relaxes, absentmindedly rubbing at his belly as he turns to the others.

It’s always nice to be with his fellow wives, because it’s not often they meet face to face, and letters don’t reach them as often as they should.

“Not that I’m not happy you’re here, but you and the baby might get sick,” Ochako is saying worriedly, pulling her work closer as she sits beside him. “Are you sure it’s okay for you to be here?”

“I’m fine, Chako,” Izuku assures his best friend. “And besides, Kacchan wouldn’t let me stay in the den alone for hours.” Too many things might go wrong while they’re gone and Izuku won’t have help, according to the blond, even if this is already their second go-around.

Izuku’s already consulted with Elder Chiyo, the village midwife, who informed him that his pregnancy’s going as well as it can be. He won’t miss the chance to see his friends again for anything in the world. “I hope we weren’t too late.”

“Not at all!” Momo assures him, setting up the pots and pans needed for the midday meal. “Truthfully we expected you around lunch time. We know how hard it is to take care of your Alpha and pup while being pregnant yourself.”

Of course they’d know. Such as their lot in life.

Izuku smiles softly at her, then starts to stand up. “All right, let me help. If it’s cooking, I can give you a hand.” Their husbands and pups would be famished with everything they’re doing right now, and Izuku refused to not contribute.

“Ah, but Izuku—!”

“I’m pregnant, not injured.” Izuku reminds them, touched that they care so much, but damn it, he has never been a pampered Omega, even after being bonded. He earns his keep, and these people are his friends. He’ll pull his weight, no matter what.

Ochako studies him briefly, and whatever she sees in his face is enough for her to nod in assent. “That’s fair. You can start with chopping up the vegetables. We’ll handle the rest.”

Izuku is happy to be put to work. There’s something extremely satisfying about welcoming your mate with a warm, delicious meal and a much deserved rest, though that might just be his Omega instincts trying to satisfy his more basic desires.

Alpha, husband, has provided. Therefore, Omega, wife, has to nurture. Their genders and positions have always been a symbiotic relationship, complimenting each other's strengths and compensating for each other’s weaknesses.

That is how they are made, and that is how they’ll be.

So Izuku takes care of knifework, sternly reminded to stay seated the entire time. Around him, his fellow wives continue to work as a seamless, well-oiled unit, stoking the flames higher, pulling out the spices they’ll need, butchering the meat and fish they’ve brought along. It’s shaping up to be a feast, and it turns into a pseudo cooking lesson when Denki returns with the pups, whose bellies have started to rumble for food.

The pups’ hunger are temporarily sated by the bags of dried fruits and nuts that are brought along for that specific purpose. While Denki and Mina settle and wipe the kids down for the meal, Izuku, Ochako, and Momo are over the fire, cooking all the dishes they’ve planned. Tsuyu is preparing the cloths and coats for their husbands to wear again, since it’s a bad idea to be both wet and cold, despite the relatively warmer weather.

The table is steadily set, the utensils arranged per family. The pups are fed first, their dams supervising to clean up any spills or mishaps that might happen. Izuku lets his pride for his pup shine through, watching Eri eat by herself. She’s a touch spoiled in their den (courtesy of his mate), but their lessons on etiquette seem to not have been wasted.

Any mistakes are quickly forgotten, and Izuku tenderly wipes her face clean once done. But then comes the herculean effort of making the children sit still for a while to prevent any stomachaches, but fortunately, the pups seem placated to wait, crowding around Izuku as the shiny, new toy they need to closely inspect.

“New pup, Auntie Izu?” Mikan, Tenya and Ochako’s Beta daughter, furrows her brows at Izuku’s stomach dubiously. “But Mikan sees none?” She reaches over and pokes under Izuku’s belt, as if to check for herself.

Eri gasps, almost throwing herself in front of Izuku in haste. “Nooo! Mikan, careful! Mama has pup in tummy! Mikan hurt them!”

“No, pups, it’s okay,” Izuku tries as Mikan’s lip starts to wobble, staring at Izuku in horror. He’s certainly been prodded far worse by Elder Chiyo, but as Ochako starts to scold her pup about her manners, there’s still a lesson to be gained here. “But yes. They’ll be here by winter, or earlier.”

“Apologize to Auntie Izuku right now,” Ochako is sternly telling her daughter. “That is not how you act towards your elders. He’s pregnant, you need to be gentle with him.”

Eri still looks upset by her friend’s actions, and thoroughly chastened, Mikan turns to Izuku, fear and guilt rolling around her in waves.

“‘M sorry, Auntie. Mikan will ask first before touching.”

Izuku scents her hair, soothing any upset emotions the little girl might feel, before nodding to Ochako in gratitude. “All is forgiven, pup. Eri?”

Mikan is looking at his daughter hopefully, and Izuku’s heart swells when he sees his daughter take her friend’s hands, forgiving as easily as the snow melts under the sun.

“‘S okay. Mikan don’t mean it.”

Mikan’s considerably cheered afterwards.

“How you got pup there, Auntie Izu?” Nashi is staring rather intensely at Izuku’s stomach, the Alpha boy serious for his age. He turns to his Omega dam, confusion writ all over his handsome little face. “Mama, how do you get new pups? Can you and Papa get new pup too?”

Momo starts to stammer, flushing pink, while the rest of them avoid eye contact with her, distracting the other children by loudly declaring that it’s time for their naps inside the nearby tent, warmed by the small brazier stocked inside.

Naturally, the kids protest this change in schedule, but Eri is in the minority, snuggling into Izuku’s side, her hand still protectively splayed over the curve of his stomach.

Sweet thing.

“I’ll settle them all down,” Tsuyu offers, and they all murmur their thanks to the Beta, who is still unbonded, but since she’s coming along with bonded wives who are effectively ‘chaperones’, her participation is permissible.

(Besides, they all knew she’s just waiting for one broody but gentle boy to make the proposition to her parents.

And Fumikage better do it soon, or Izuku will lose the bet.)

Their pups squared off for the moment, it’s time for the wives to focus on their respective mates, who have been slaving all throughout this time, more focused on their tasks than having fun with them and the pups.

The time will come when their pups will help out.

For now, they’re still too young.

“Guys! Lunch is ready!” Mina calls out to the husbands. “Eiji, come here before you catch a cold!”

“Coming, love!” Eijirou cheerfully answers back, and it speaks to their long years of companionship that no one jeers or mocks her, Izuku standing up and going over to get the cloth that Tsuyu has thoughtfully prepared for their hard working mates.

They walk to the table in twos and threes, approaching their respectives wives for (instinctive, automatic) pampering. Izuku smiles briefly at Shouto, who gives him a nod before giving a more open, tender smile towards Momo, heads drawn close together in private conversation.

(They look the best beside each other, and seeing them together just reaffirms Izuku’s decision in the before.

He has no regrets.)

Izuku cranes his head up further, finally seeing his Alpha taking up the rear beside Eijirou, head inclined at whatever the Beta redhead is enthusiastically explaining to him.

And he takes the time to simply… appreciate, gaze sweeping from top to bottom as he takes in the sight.

Katsuki’s hair shines through the weak sunlight, making the spiked strands of dark blonde gleam like spun golden threads against the bleakness of the snow. His white shirt clinging to the right places, soaked in sweat, despite the chilling conditions. His shirt collar unlaced, showing off a hint of chiseled muscle underneath, the leather strap of a necklace Izuku gave to him peeking through. His strides brisk and sure, boots making a familiar crunch on ice and dirt, ax slung casually over one broad shoulder, the blade facing down.

Izuku forces himself to swallow, suddenly, fiercely glad for the second pup inside him, lest he mortifies himself with a sudden trail of slick that would have started running down between his legs right there and then.

His big, strong, tall Alpha, who had broken him more than once, but also made him whole—complete—in so many different ways. Izuku’s love for him is unquestionable, but with it comes an unbridled want, a deep, pulsing well of desire that demands to be acknowledged.

Satiated.

Izuku’s ears and neck feel hot. He ducks his head and rubs his hand against his covered belly, willing himself to calm down. Thank goodness he’s already bonded, or else his scent would have alerted everyone else in the vicinity of his inappropriate thoughts.

It’s that lust that brought Izuku into this state in the first place, and a small part of his mind—unapologetic, feral, and wholly, unabashedly Omega—preens and crows in smug delight.

(Because this man—wonderful, beautiful, extraordinary man—is his. Katsuki is his mate. The sire of his pups, their provider, their caretaker.

A prime Alpha specimen, a superior of his kind.

And Izuku, plain, sireless, outsider Omega, against all odds, defying all expectations, has managed to snatch him as his own.)

But perhaps his thoughts aren’t as hidden as Izuku hopes, glancing over his lashes, only to see his Alpha standing (loominghovering) over him, nostrils flaring, red irises dilating in way that doesn’t have anything to do with his current exhaustion. The scent of ash and smoke wafts through the air, thickened by the barest hint of molten sugar, the taste of it rich and potent on Izuku’s tongue as he takes a deep inhale.

(It promises only the most debauched and honeyed gratification, only kept at bay by Izuku’s willing and explicit permission.)

Still, Izuku strives to act like a proper, demure mate, giving the blond a smile that reveals nothing of their keen awareness of each other’s mental states. He raises his hand, offering the cloth to his Alpha to use.

“Kacchan, you’ve worked hard. You should change into something dry before the cold settles in.”

“Hm.” Izuku bites his lip to stop the shocked gasp from escaping when Katsuki leans down and forward instead, planting his face into the cloth—and in extension, Izuku’s palm. The material immediately dampens, and Izuku’s fingers move reflexively, following the shape of a chiseled jaw, high cheekbones, the edges of his brows, collecting the sweat that still lingers on pale skin.

This is pure indulgence. Izuku carefully rubs the tips of blond hair plastered at the back of his Alpha’s neck dry, before wrapping the cloth over his shoulders. It’s an excessive display of affection, even for his Kacchan, but one that Izuku relishes in, his instincts soothed by his personal ascertaining of his mate’s well-being. “You’ve eaten?”

“A little.” Picking out a few bites every now and then with Eri, at her insistence. Izuku can’t say no to her earnest face. Izuku raises an extra shirt and the blond’s outer coat, and exchanges hands with his mate, folding the soiled cloth and tucking it out of the way.

Izuku then watches his mate strip down right in front of him, the top part at least, and Izuku struggles to not let his gaze wander around too much.

It’s just—

There’s so much skin. Bared, taut, flushed, several shades darker than the whiteness around them. A torso that’s completely marked, seemingly in random, puckers of raised, wrinkled flesh that turns a plain canvas into a tapestry of memories.

Multiple victories, carved into muscle and bone. Enduring hardships, making a permanent home in his body.

But Katsuki stands proudly, nonchalantly so even, efficient and meticulous in removing the relevant clothing and preventing potential pneumonia.

(Surreptitiously, Izuku glances around to see if anyone’s watching, and exhales a small, relieved breath when his friends are also busy with their respective mates.)

Katsuki frowns, pulling the clean, dry shirt over his head. “Eri?”

“Napping.” Izuku glances at the tent. “Or at least, trying to.”

“She’s fine then.” Expressive red eyes further squint at him, hands sliding into the coat sleeves, belt wrapped around his waist after. “And why haven’t you eaten.”

Izuku simply shrugs back. “I wanted to eat with you.”

His Alpha lightly cuffs him over the head, belt tightened firmly in place. “Stupid. I ain’t the one carrying the pot.”

“But look at that,” a teasing smile plays along Izuku’s lips, baring his neck in a way he knows lures his mate in as easily as a fish caught with a bait.

“I just became really hungry right now.”

His Alpha’s grin turns sharp, canines bared, hearing the double meaning for all its worth. His face nears Izuku’s own, scent becoming a heavy fog, swirling around Izuku from all sides. His head, steadily feeling lighter, as Izuku resists the urge to blush and retreat into his collar.

“That so? I’m hankerin’ for a bite myself.”

“He can’t get pregnant a second time, Katsuki.” Ochako interrupts dryly beside them.

Izuku squeaks, burying his heated face into the fur lining of his coat as the veil shatters.

Katsuki turns to her, supremely unimpressed, but just as well, since the other husbands are also finished cleaning up.

Which means it’s time for them grown ups to eat.

They keep their conversation volume low, every one aware of the tent nearby that’s housing a few snoozing little ones. But they’re much freer in their gestures and overall demeanor, without having to worry about their pups getting into trouble somewhere.

This time around, unspoken, their topic has become unanimous.

Izuku, honestly, should have expected this.

“Definitely an Alpha,” Denki argues, shamelessly seated on his Alpha’s lap. Hitoshi looks long-suffering, but as patiently tolerant of his Omega’s antics as always. “Zuku’s already showing a bit, and considering how far along he is? Not just an Alpha, but a boy too.”

“And he’s carrying low,” Momo agrees. “Just like I was when I had Nashi.”

“But I didn’t look like that when I had Chuu,” Mina protests. “The stomach placement isn’t accurate for boys. That’s just an old wives’ thing.”

“Yeah, we thought that Mikan would be an Alpha too,” Ochako adds. “Since Tenya’s an Alpha, the odds are greater, but Mikan ended up taking more after me.”

“What gender would you prefer for your second pup, Izuku?” Tenya asks formally, turning to him.

“Healthy,” is Izuku’s prompt answer, causing a cascade of laughter. “But honestly?” His hand drifts to his middle. “I’d really like to have an Alpha this time. But no matter what they’re born as, Kacchan and I will love them just as much.”

There’s a scattered nod of approval amongst the wives. “Eri would need a sibling who’s an Alpha. She’d never be able to go anywhere without one.” Ochako hums.

“Mhmm. Having another Alpha around the den also helps with housework,” Momo agrees. “Nashi’s already helping Shouto out with some of the farm tasks we have.”

“He’s very diligent,” Shouto offers, with just the barest tinge of pride in his tone. “He can feed the horses with minimal supervision now.”

“Chuushi too!” Eijirou chimes in. “But he’s still too little to carry things around the house. Doesn’t stop the little tyke from trying,” he says with an inordinate amount of fondness.

“What about you, Katsuki?” Shinou asks, glancing at Izuku’s blond. “What would you like to have.”

“… Either way doesn’t matter.” His Alpha says after a pause. “But I wouldn’t mind another Omega. Or two.”

So they’ll take after Izuku more, are the words that continue unsaid, and Izuku’s heart both warms and flips inside his chest.

“But gosh, the amount of dowry that you’d both need to prepare for three Omega pups!” Mina laments. “And the cutthroat competition for all of them! Because I’m definitely not handing Chuu over to someone who doesn’t deserve my baby. Or having him court someone who’s clearly not a good match.” She sniffs.

“Man, I can’t wait until Toshi and I get our own,” Denki says wistfully, leaning back against his mate. “All this talk of pups is making me jealous.”

Hitoshi rubs his mate’s shoulder in comfort. “We’ll get there, Denki. We’ve only been mates for a few months.”

The talk dissolves into more mundane topics (“So, the two of you, in the future, what do you think of setting our pups up—” “Not on your life, Racoon Eyes.”), before lunch comes to its natural end.

And there’s still much work to be done.

Izuku helps out with clearing out the dishes, gathering up any extras as possible snacks for later. The wives head out to the nearby small creek to wash everything, while the husbands gear back to return to the forested area. This is another task Izuku has to sit out on, with the amount of squatting that needs to be done by the water’s edge, so he offers to watch over the pups in their stead.

A quick check in the tent reveals the pups still in dreamland, cuddled and dozing together in one large pile, and it’s such an adorable picture Izuku wishes he’s had a little more talent in the arts to be able to dedicate the scene in paper and charcoal, just so it will last a little longer.

With nothing to do in the foreseeable future, Izuku returns to his seat, pulling out the bundle of threads, a needle, and cloth that he’s also packed along for this exact time.

The absence of immediate work doesn’t mean one can be idle, and for a wife, there’s always something that needs making or fixing.

Such as his pup’s newborn swaddle.

It’s the perfect activity, keeping his hands engaged while still retaining the presence of mind to look after his mate and daughter at regular intervals. Embroidery isn’t his strongest suit (then again, no skill is when it comes to general homemaking), but it’s enough to keep face when directly judged against another’s.

The color of choice is threaded through the needle. The first stitch enters and exits the cloth with ease. Izuku’s working on a new pattern that has the same purpose as the others he’s already done: a charm to keep his pup safe from harm, and a wish for them to grow healthy and strong.

His fingertips are nimble as they absentmindedly count the lines he’s making, the rhythmic weave of metal going through more pliable material lulling him into a state of relaxation and calm. The rest of the wives return soon after, and it’s not long before they’ve formed a semi-circle, all of them taking out their own unfinished projects while catching each other up on the latest happenings in the village and lives in general.

Also known as gossiping.

As much as Izuku likes being with his mate and pups, Izuku also cherishes the moments he spends with his fellow Omega and Beta wives. They’ve always been each other’s rock and foundation of support, especially during the most harrowing times of their lives.

(Mina cried into their arms when she found out that Eijirou wasn’t her parents’ first choice. Ochako had come to them shy, insecure, and discouraged about her lower standing in the village, and they helped secure the rich and wildly-sought-after Tenya for her hand. Denki had talked their ears off on how perfect and handsome Hitoshi was, and they encouraged him to take the first step in getting to know the quietly intense Alpha.

They had bridged the strained relationship between Izuku and Momo during the debacle of Izuku’s intended mate, basically kidnapping them both and standing witness inside an enclosed room until all hurt feelings were discussed, embraced, and forgiven.

Now, they keep Tsuyu’s hopes and spirits up, assuring her that Fumikage’s parents would definitely be approaching hers any day now to talk about permanent arrangements.)

Izuku’s enjoying himself so much that he doesn’t notice the tent flap opening, a silvery head poking out between the space like a rabbit in its underground burrow.

“Ma?”

“Oh!” Izuku turns to the direction of the sound, seeing Eri slowly amble out, expression groggy. Denki, the nearest one, helps the little girl put on her boots, and guides her over to Izuku, setting her up on the empty chair next to him.

Eri wastes no time in flopping over Izuku’s lap. He chuckles, realizing that his daughter still took care not to put any sudden pressure on his stomach.

“Good afternoon, dearest.” He puts the silk down in favor of patting her back, letting Eri snuggle up to his baby bump. “Did you sleep well?”

“Mmn.” One ruby eye drowsily peeks up at him. “Da where?”

“Over there,” Izuku tilts his face in the direction of his mate and Eri lifts her head in kind, seeking, and eventually finding, her sire working in tandem with Tenya to make a notch on a rather sizable tree. “Da is still getting firewood for our den.”

“Oh.” A small fist rubs over sleep-swollen eyes. Eri sits up properly after a second, a look of awe starting to settle over her features while she watches her sire’s complete focus on the task at hand.

“Wow. Da’s strong.”

“The strongest,” Izuku agrees, playfully raising an eyebrow at the mock offended expressions his friends give him in turn. “Feeling cold? Hungry?”

A considering pause. “… ‘m cold.”

“Let me—ah, thank you, Tsuyu.”

“Don’t mention it. Here you go sweetie,” thankfully the Beta girl has already anticipated the answer, pouring out a cup from the kettle they’ve hung over the fire. “It’s milk. Be careful, it’s hot.”

“Thank you, Auntie Tsuyu,” Eri says, both polite and shy as she takes the mug with both hands, and the pleased, affectionate expression on the woman’s face doesn’t escape any of them in the slightest.

(She and Fumikage would make quite a brood. Tsuyu comes from a large family, after all.)

Eri stays well-behaved as she takes small sips of her drink, seemingly content to just stay at her dam’s side and observe her surroundings. None of the other pups have woken up yet, letting the adults retain a semblance of peace a while longer.

Izuku returns to his sewing, and sees his daughter perk up at the corner of his eye.

“Ma, wha’s that?” Eri eyes the bright-colored cloth in interest. “What you doing?”

“I’m sewing an eagle,” Izuku answers easily, lowering his hands so the little girl can see the pattern better. “Here are its wings, see? It’s for your sibling’s baby swaddle.”

Eri blinks at him. “Why?”

“Why am I making the eagle, or why am I decorating the swaddle in the first place?”

A guileless nod, and Izuku laughs at himself for asking his young pup a rather complicated question.

“Well…” Izuku starts another row, watching his daughter’s rapt fascination with the current movement of his hands. “It’s tradition. I made you the same thing before you were born, and this is what kept your small body warm and safe in our arms in the beginning.”

Once Eri had outgrown hers, Izuku had turned the swaddle into a dress she can use for the summer, for all the three months it existed within a year. Even that is too small for her now, but it has another eventual use: as a part of her potential pups’ future wardrobe.

His baby is frowning, indignantly staring at Izuku. “Eri not small! I big now, Ma!”

At that, Izuku bursts into loud, unexpected laughter. Oh, his sweet, earnest daughter, reminding him so much of her sire. “Nope, you were the tiniest, most beautiful baby I’ve ever seen.” Izuku refutes with a light bop on her cute button nose. “But all pups are small when they’re born, Eri. Including your younger sibling. So you have to take care of them, okay? Promise Mama you’ll always be there for them?”

Eri nods, features set in determination. She’s all miniature Katsuki, and Izuku finds himself adoring her more than he ever thinks possible. “I promise!”

Izuku smooths down a wayward lock of silver hair, before giving her a short peck on the forehead. “Good girl. I know Mama can count on you.”

Eri smiles back, and then she’s tugging on Izuku’s arm, thankfully not the one that’s holding the needle. “Can Eri see more, Ma?”

Izuku hums. “I don’t see why not.” It’s a stroke of fortune that Eri is taking an interest in her future duties on her own, and he’s not the one to squander a teachable opportunity.

“In fact… would you like to try, Eri?”

Because the more of everyone’s thread is fitted into the silk, the better. It blesses the wearer with good fortune and happiness.

At Eri’s eager nods, Izuku arranges his firstborn so she’s sitting on his lap, perched closer to his knees so both of his pups are taking a comfortable amount of space without accidentally bumping into each other.

Izuku covers her hands with his own as he guides her through each step, starting from inserting the thread into the needle to poking the needle through the cloth to make her first ever stitch. The line comes out wonky and loose, but it’s a promising start, and Izuku lets her do a few more, quietly gauging her possible, long-time interest in the activity.

One skill down. Many more to go.

Eventually, Eri loses interest, and Izuku shifts her back to her seat. And just as well, since the other pups are starting to wake up. With their energy refilled, they’re back to wrestling and chasing each other across the relatively flat forest grounds, under their dams’ indulgent but constantly watchful eye.

Until…

“Ochako! Your man’s suddenly stripping out of his shirt!”

“What?!” Ochako shrieks, eyes boggling as she snaps her head towards her mate, and Denki—

Isn’t wrong.

Tenya, serious, straight-laced, proper Tenya Iida, who hadn't so much as attempted to meet Ochako alone without any chaperone, who had followed his overtures of courtship by the letter…

Is really removing his upper top, baring himself to all and sundry right in front of their astounded gazes.

“T-Tenya?!”

“W-What is happening?!”

“Whoo! Tenya, I knew you’d always have a hot bod under all of those layers!”

“Love, how can you say that?!” Eijirou wails, but his words are drowned out by the blue-haired man striding to where they’re gathered around, clothes bundled in his startlingly built arms.

“I apologize terribly and sincerely for my indecency, wife,” Tenya says to Ochako, softly and intimately, and there’s not one wife who’s nearby whose chest doesn’t melt a little bit from the deferent, respectful way he interacts with her. “But I cannot stand by and let my capabilities as a worthy mate be questioned.”

“But what has transpired for Tenya to act so uncharacteristically in this manner?” Momo asks worriedly, blinking when Shouto comes up to her as well, already as partially naked as Tenya is. She takes his shirt without a word, but exchanges multiple puzzled looks with Izuku and the others. “This is—”

“Don’t worry about it,” Hitoshi, next to arrive, shares dryly, casually rotating a freed shoulder. In the distance, they can see Eijirou start to line up several blocks of wood, already segmented into pieces from the trunk, but still too large to be carried around as they are. “They just started to talk about who can cut firewood the fastest. You can imagine what happens next.”

Tsuyu squints at him. “But why does it look like you’re preparing too, Hitoshi?”

A shrug. “Like Iida said,” is the simple response, leaning down to scent Denki’s hair briefly. Denki coos back. “‘S a matter of pride now. I won’t back down either.”

“Alphas,” Ochako grounds out with an amused roll of her eyes as she watches their respective men return either to them or their selected battlefield.

“Husbands, you mean,” Izuku chuckles, with a meaningful look towards Eijirou, already shirtless and just as pumped to compete as the others. Izuku is inclined to agree with her, but they’re not so old (and blind) as to thoroughly reject the sight of their virile, sweaty, wonderfully built mates who're perfectly willing to provide them some worthwhile entertainment. “Let them have their fun. They’ve been working all day.”

The pups wander in curiously to see the commotion, and learning of what’s happening, sticks to their respective dams, wide-eyed and anticipant for what’s to come.

“Ain’t no way ‘m getting second after these losers,” Katsuki rumbles, focused and intent. Going as far as to remove his necklace, the accessory carefully laid over his folded garments. “Eri, you gonna cheer for Da, yeah?”

“Yup!” Eri exclaims, eyes sparkling as she holds Izuku’s hand. “Da’s the best!”

“You’re darn right he is,” Katsuki huffs, and deliberately ignores the exasperated look Izuku sends him. “Watch me leave’em in the snow, Izuku.”

“Always, Kacchan.” Izuku replies, too tender and heartfelt to be considered chiding. “Be careful not to get splinters.”

The grin gifted to him in turn is brilliant, the hand on his neck and sniff to his cheek sweeter still. Katsuki briskly strides back to the clearing, stretching his bare arms and flexing his back muscles, confidence oozing from every pore in his body.

“Let’s get this show on the road, extras! Let me show you how the real woodcutters do it.”

“I’m sorry, I can’t hear you over your massive ego,” Shouto states blandly, and the succeeding jeers and taunts rise up in pitch.

“You got this, Toshi!” Denki hollers from the sidelines. “You beat their asses good!”

“Papa, go!” Nashi cheers from his dam’s arms. “Beat the Uncles!”

“No, Da beats all the Uncles!” Eri refutes faster than lightning, and Izuku and Momo hide their giggles as their children fling deeply competitive glares towards each other.

The competitors take their places at the end of the line, in front of them an equal number of wood blocks they need to chop in half. The wind has started to pick up as the afternoon trudges on, but their mates show no sign of being cold in the slightest.

“Mina, love, if you can do the honors!” Eijirou says, two hands wrapped around his ax handle.

“All right!” Mina raises a hand. For a few heartbeats, quiet blankets over them all.

Then, a swift bring down.

“Start!”

Izuku waves and calls out along with the others when the husbands start their race, tearing through the first chunk of tree trunk with a vigor and ferocity that’s more akin to the wild animals that roam around the plains. For a moment Izuku frets about Eri not seeing the action clearly, but Denki is willing to heft the little girl up against his chest, pointing out Izuku’s mate and laughing along when she cheers and claps her hands in delight.

He can’t hide his gratitude towards his friend for such kindness, but Denki waves everything off with a reassuring wink.

“Nah, it’s cool. Besides, I need to get some practice in, and my Toshi’s gonna win anyway.” Denki sends him a roguish smirk. “So I’d say we’re even.”

(While Izuku playfully rebukes the other Omega’s words, he decides that the moment Denki and Hitoshi need them to babysit for a while, the request will be accepted without a thought.)

It is, admittedly, a close match. A handful of Alphas butting heads means there’s a lot of strutting and posturing to go around, and they would all rather die than admit defeat to each other’s faces.

But to everyone’s pleasant surprise, it’s Eijirou who comes out on top, the lone Beta in the husband pack, and no one has to disguise their happiness from his unexpected victory. Chuushi runs out first, exhilaration and pride in his squeals as the boy tackles his sire to the snow-covered ground. Mina follows after her family, giggling as she’s taken into her man and pup’s arms.

Katsuki is visibly displeased, but it’s nothing a little cosseting and pacifying won’t fix.

“I almost had him,” he mutters, tugging the shirt back on. Izuku nuzzles into his cheek, before sliding the necklace over his head. The wooden pendant Izuku carved rests lightly over his chest. “Damn Shitty Hair.”

Izuku hides a smile into his Alpha’s skin. “There’s always next time. You always do well, regardless. How is the gathering?”

“We’re almost done.” Red eyes flicker around, eventually resting on Eri, whose attention is still with Denki and Hitoshi. The two men’s fondness of her is apparent, and Izuku can’t deny them the chance to dote on her. “We’ll be able to make the trip home with daylight still.”

Izuku sends his mate off for the last burst of work, and collects his daughter from his friends, who exaggerate their waves of goodbye.

(He sincerely hopes they will experience the joy of having their own pup soon.)

“Did you have fun with Uncle Hitoshi and Auntie Denki?”

“Mn! Uncle Eiji won, but Da is still strong!” Eri says, and some part of Izuku is appeased at his daughter not losing her admiration for her sire. She shyly tugs at Izuku’s coat, her small rosebud mouth shaping into a moue of thought.

“… Ma?”

“Hm?”

“Ma, can Eri do that too?” She glances away from them, and Izuku follows her gaze, landing on his mate, who’s pushing down a notched tree with the help of the others.

Izuku must have been silent for too long, because this time, she grasps his hand and pulls more insistently.

He glances at her, and Eri clarifies.

“Like Da?”

Oh.

Izuku has grown up with as much love and care as any normal pup.

But with that care comes a reckoning if certain standards and norms are not maintained.

(“—can’t do that—”

“—you should be—”

“—megas are just good for—”

“—really think you can do that? You’re an Omega!”

“… But you’re an Omega.”

“Know your place.”)

This time, Izuku closes his eyes. Takes a slow, steady inhale.

And slowly, gingerly, goes down onto one knee, despite the pinching discomfort it brings to his middle.

But he has to look into her eyes, hold her, and make her understand.

A hand clasps itself around Eri’s upper arm. Izuku takes a moment to simply observe, and marvel at how much she’s grown over the years.

His other hand lifts, and cradles her soft, chubby cheek under his rough palm.

Izuku’s smile is warm.

“Eri, my dearest girl, you can do whatever you set your heart and mind to.”

(It doesn’t matter if she doesn’t know what he’s saying. Only that he needs her to realize and believe that she has his support, his unconditional love.

That he will be with her, beside her, encouraging her to follow the path she wants in life.

No matter what.)

But perhaps she hears him either way.

Because the smile Eri gives him is incandescent, and the tight embrace she gives him afterwards feels like a ‘thank you,’ in its minute, precious way.

As Izuku’s mate predicts, it doesn’t take too long for the husbands to finish the job. With the last of the tree trunks chopped down into serviceable pieces, they’re brought onto the wagons, each family getting the share they need that will last them through the next year. Katsuki loads onto theirs more than what they strictly need, but the extras are for Uncle Mitsuni and Aunt Yoichi, who they’re planning to visit the next day.

They all work together to clean and wrap everything up. The tent is collapsed, loaded onto Shouto’s wagon. Cooking and eating utensils are covered in cloth or placed inside sacks before being carried off by their owners. The table is broken down and left to rot on the forest floor, the nails pocketed. The ponies are called back with various whistles, and are hitched onto their respective carts.

The pups are rounded up as well, and extended goodbyes are shared, the little ones visibly saddened by the departure. Chuushi is near tears, and even little Nashi is forlorn as he’s forced to separate from his playmates.

Eri just buries her face in Izuku’s coat to hide her sniffles, and Izuku ruffles her hair in comfort before placing her cap over her head.

The adults take as much time saying their farewells, though with much less waterworks (at least, Izuku hopes). They’ve already discussed coming to the farm in a few weeks for the wool shearing, and have forestalled Izuku’s frantic mutterings, telling him flatout that they’ll arrive early and do all the work since they’ll be imposing in his den.

That’s not how it works, Izuku should always be prepared for guests, no matter his current state. But then his Alpha has been roped into the conversation, all of them extracting a promise from Katsuki to stop Izuku from doing as much as lifting a pinky to welcome them into their home, which his mate readily—almost gleefully—agrees to.

Soon enough, everything has been squared away. Izuku is carefully boosted up the wagon seat, Eri following him in the same seat configuration they had when they arrived. An exchange of words between the husbands, and Katsuki gets on finally, steering the ponies in the right direction as they form a caravan line.

With a quick flick of the reins, the carts start to move in single file, the steeds neighing in synchrony as they start to pull their loads.

They leave the forest just as the edge of the sun touches the tip of the highest treetops. It won’t be dark for a few hours yet, but it’s always better to travel when there’s still light out. Their pace is more sedate with the heavier bulk they’re bringing along, and at the front and back of their wagon, there’s snatches of laughter, voices, and song, intertwined with clopping hooves and creaking wood.

The families might be traveling on their lonesome, but it doesn’t feel lonely.

Izuku hides a yawn behind his fingers. Now that they’re heading back home, exhaustion is surging back with a vengeance, though he still has the prescience to keep awake throughout the entire journey.

Eri isn’t having much luck, however. Not long after they’re on the way, Izuku feels her head bobbing up and down against his arm, starting to tip forward before catching herself just in time.

Looks like all that excitement is enough to keep her down, despite getting an afternoon nap.

Izuku raises his elbow, and she cuddles into his side, her cheek dropping on the slight curve of his stomach. “Sleepy, pup?”

She nods, eyes already half-mast. “Mn.”

“Give her here,” his mate blurts on Izuku’s other side, and he turns, seeing Katsuki slip the reins over his forearm to free his hands. He reaches over the back, pulling out the partially finished swaddle Izuku has been working on earlier. “This is fine, right?”

“Yes,” Izuku answers quickly, since he’ll wash the cloth once he’s done with the sewing. It takes bit of risky maneuvering on both of their parts, the Alpha standing up and reaching over Izuku to lift Eri into his arms. But with the ponies’ slower walk and the road staying relatively even, no one gets into an incident, their firstborn quickly and securely settled between them.

Her head is directed to rest on Izuku’s lap, made softer by his thighs and his thick winter coat. The swaddle is unraveled and draped over her like a blanket, her legs placed over her sire’s knees, her boot heels barely reaching the older man’s hip. Their hands reach in between to ensure she doesn’t slip off the seat, tucked into her side, over the blanket.

Izuku cradles Eri’s slack, peaceful face with his other hand, making sure his pups don't bump into each other by accident.

(And if his hand reaches out to twine with his mate’s, lightly resting over their baby girl’s steadily beating heart, there’s no one to see them, and it’s not improper to hold hands with your mate.

Besides, Izuku thinks as he feels an answering squeeze…

Kacchan doesn’t seem inclined to let go of them either.)

Eventually, the caravan fractures off bit by bit, going on their own trails back to their dens. Izuku waves to whoever’s left when they too have to make a turn on their road, the ponies’ languid walk becoming a more energetic trot once they’ve broken away from the group.

The sun has set when the farm comes into view. It’s almost picturesque, a seemingly lone cabin in the middle of a deserted prairie, fenced around, with the backdrop of the mountain range in the distance that never seems to lose its snow-capped peaks.

Home has never been a more welcome sight.

They hear the barks before they see him. They find Mighty perched on the wooden railing by the fence gate, tail furiously wagging. His mate gets off the wagon then, leading the ponies inside their property by foot, giving an absentminded pat to the wolf's head while the animal follows by Katsuki’s side.

“Shh, Mighty,” Izuku hears his Alpha hush. “Quiet. Eri’s asleep.”

Mighty obediently ceases his barks, snow crunching under his paws. The wagon is stopped by the den’s front door first, the blond jumping lightly on the seat to get Eri, who’s still asleep on Izuku’s lap.

“Eri? Come on—”

“It’s all right, let her rest,” Izuku murmurs to his mate. “She’s had a heavy afternoon snack. I’ll just make more food for breakfast tomorrow.”

His mate nods, careful as he carries her into his arms, blanket and all. Izuku carefully slides down the wagon after, ignoring Katsuki’s mutinous expression, because it’s important for his little girl to be warmed first.

Izuku quickly strides into their den sans boots, and finds the hearth reduced to ashes, the inside darkened and cold with the loss of fire and sunlight. He leans over the pit immediately, illumination unnecessary as his gloved fingers do the searching for him, flint curled in one hand, tinder already gathered and sparked into embers.

Building a new fire only takes seconds, and the brightening orange glow finally allows Izuku to move around more freely. Standing up takes more effort, momentarily displaced by the additional weight around his middle, and Izuku huffs, amused and exasperated at himself for being so fussy.

And he doesn’t have to look to know that Katsuki has already placed Eri in their nest, tucking her in with the thicker blankets that are saturated in their mingled scents.

That should keep her asleep until the next day.

“‘M heading out,” his Alpha says, placing down the swaddle on the table. The light is just enough to make his eyes shine like rubies. “Gotta get the ponies into the stable, let Mighty out for food.”

“Okay.” This time, it’s Izuku who loops the red scarf around his mate’s neck, readily unwrapped and pulled away from his neck. Just as Katsuki has some last minute work to do on the farm, Izuku also has a few things to complete inside the den before they can truly get a proper rest. Izuku’s already tired from the entire day, but no one will finish the tasks if not himself. “It’s going to be dark soon. Be careful.”

That gets him a smirk. “Always am.”

His Alpha disappears after, and Izuku lets himself worry for the briefest bit, glancing out the window and seeing the pinprick light from a lantern.

But Izuku eventually stands up, and gets moving.

Izuku shrugs off his gloves and outermost layers. He lights up the lamps around the den. Goes to the entryway between the front door and the inner den, dragging the things they’ve brought to the wood gathering into the room. Puts the things he’s packed back in their proper places, and gets the kitchen ready to preserve whatever leftovers are left, setting aside a portion for their evening meal.

The pots are soon bubbling with heated stew and brewed tea. He checks on Eri every so often, content when he sees her still fast asleep. After canning the preserved food and stocking them for future use, Izuku waits for his Alpha to come home, sitting by the hearth, pouring himself a drink. The warmth seeps through his bare fingers and toes, and Izuku takes small sips, staring into the flames, his other hand drifting over his baby bump.

Before long, he starts to hum, a children’s rhyming song without the words, rubbing his stomach to the tune.

“As small as you are, know that you are wanted.” Izuku speaks softly to the life inside of him. “You are loved. You have a sister that will adore you, a sire that will protect you, and a dam that will do his best to raise you into a good and proper person.”

He smiles, caressing the stretched skin and feeling little pops bubble and break within.

“I can’t wait to meet you, little one.”

“Well. Ain’t you a pretty sight.”

Izuku’s head jerks up, startled, eyes following the sound and landing on his mate, who’s leaning against the doorway, arms crossed. He’s staring at Izuku with such blatant appreciation Izuku feels his cheeks flare on principle alone.

“H-How long have you been standing there?!”

“Long enough.” His Alpha has also removed his layers and steps into the den proper, long-legged and loose-shouldered.

Izuku makes to stand, but he’s stopped by a hand to his shoulder. Katsuki swings over his side and stands in front of him, before unceremoniously dropping to his knees, moving between Izuku’s thighs.

Large, rough, warm fingers follow the curve of Izuku’s slightly round belly, a blond head dipping briefly to press a kiss over his navel.

“It’s fine. You’ve been working all day. You must be exhausted.”

Izuku smiles weakly, fingers carding through spiky blond locks. His over hand shifts to cover his mate’s, the cup of tea placed over the grate to be reheated. “No more than usual. And it’s better to move around while I still can. The food is already warm. Do you want to eat, Kacchan?”

“In a bit. ‘S still cold as fuck outside, thought my balls are gonna wither off and die.”

Izuku bites down a snicker, pulling on his mate’s hair in light admonishment. “You better not let Eri hear you say that.”

“But this pup can?” Katsuki nuzzles into his stomach, snickering when Izuku gives his scalp a harder tweak. “Don’t play favorites among our children, Izuku.”

“That’s different. This one won’t be able to hear you yet.” No matter that Izuku’s been talking and singing to his second pup the moment the curve of his middle becomes more prominent. “Pups shouldn’t learn such language.”

His Alpha hums. “You’re right. They should learn from you instead.” Fingers go back and forth over Izuku’s skin. “Learn how to sing. To dance. To live a happy life.” Another kiss. “To be good. To be nothing like me.”

Izuku softens, hand curling into affectionate strokes through his Alpha’s hair.

“Katsuki, no—”

“You follow what your dam says always, yeah?” Katsuki continues to speak to their second pup. “Don’t make him cry or worry so much. You’re already half-me, so it ain’t gonna be easy listenin’ to him. But he knows what’s best for you and me and your big sister. We’d be nothin’ without him.”

His mate tilts his head up then, meeting Izuku’s wide, misty gaze with his own.

Calm, serene, and utterly matter-of-fact.

“Your Ma’s the most beautiful person I’ve ever seen. And I’m just the typical sonofabitch who just so happened to get his hand in mateship.”

A few, gentle pats.

“So I’ll do right by you, kiddo. You and Eri, with your Ma? You’re my whole life. No matter what, you’re gonna be the happiest, fattest, most well-loved pack on this side of the steppes. And I’ll work my ass off to make it happen.”

Izuku hears a hitch of breath. He looks to the side quickly, but there’s no movement in the nest.

Afterwards, a sniffle, but his Alpha remains unmoving, staring at him with a light glimmer of amusement in his eyes.

Then Izuku blinks, and realizes his cheeks are wet.

“Oh!” His hand reaches for his face, but his Alpha gets there first, arm extending as a large palm tucks under the curve of Izuku’s jaw, the pad of his thumb wiping the moisture from Izuku’s lashes.

Katsuki is chuckling, deep and husky, as Izuku’s tear ducts continue to shamelessly stain his fingers with clear, glass-like liquid.

“Crying again, sweetheart?”

(Of course Izuku doesn’t notice.

How can he, when he can’t even breathe, his chest feeling so full, tight enough to burst?

Katsuki’s tone isn’t mocking or teasing.

It’s gentle, and absurdly, excessively adoring.)

So Izuku swallows all the emotions that threaten to escape him in a rush, and barely succeeds.

“Not at all, Kacchan.” He wipes his eyes again and smiles.

He loves this man so, so much.

“Let’s eat and get some rest. I’m sure you’re tired too.”

The evening meal, in contrast to this morning, is calm. Quiet, both of them emptying their bowls while occasionally staring at the fire. They don’t make a lot of noise, aware of the sleeping pup that’s not too far away, and they’ve done enough for today that would warrant an early night. Doing things by candlelight would just ruin their eyes, and there’s nothing pressing enough to warrant being done right now.

They wash the dishes, visiting the outhouse one last time to avoid waking up in the middle of the night. While Izuku wipes down the table and the kitchen, his mate goes out one last time to check their animals and the locks on their fences. Mighty should be inside his kennel, safe from the elements, while Oru and his flock would be huddling together, their thick furs shielding them from the wind and snow.

By the time Izuku’s clothes are off and he’s sliding between the thick, knitted quilts of the nest, the temperature has dropped enough that he would be wracked by shivers in a few seconds without the proper attire. Eri is warm to the touch, and Izuku hugs her to his chest, sharing his body heat and keeping awkward baby limbs away from his stomach.

Eri snoozes on, completely unaware, and Izuku rubs his nose over her head for a few moments, the scent of milk still clinging to her skin.

Izuku makes himself comfortable, dark shadows flickering and wavering against the bright wicks of the oil lamps. His wait doesn’t take long, familiar sounds soon making its way to his ears.

The scuffle of feet on the entryway. The slush of snow being scraped off under a pair of boots. The creak of wooden floors as a man pads around the den.

The snap of wood being fed into the hearth. The crackle of the flame as it continuously burns. The steady stream of air as the lamps inside the room are blown out, one by one. The rustle of clothes being removed.

And finally, the flump of blankets as they’re pulled open, a blaze of heat from a broad, muscled chest, coming into contact with his own bare back.

Whatever chill Izuku might have been exposed to during those short seconds instantly dissipate. Izuku sighs, feeling that missing piece slide into place. Legs intertwine with his own. An arm slides over his waist, its accompanying fingers spreading across his stomach, proprietary.

Protective.

Puffs of hot breath rustle the curls on his nape. Lips brush against his scent gland, the words shaped against it almost inaudible.

“Sure you don’t want me in between?”

Izuku shakes his head. “Eri might wake up if I move.” Their pup has made herself at home in his embrace, and he is loath to disturb her.

“So turn towards me. Less chances of kicking. She’ll cling to you either way.”

His mate isn’t wrong, and Izuku makes the painstaking shift to the other side, making his movements miniscule and gradual so their daughter won’t be shaken awake. It’s slow, but he eventually succeeds, curled towards his Alpha instead.

Katsuki reaches over, and arranges Eri carefully so she’s plastered to Izuku’s spine, her toes kept warm at the back of Izuku’s knees. Lifts the quilts to her chin, and drops his arm over them both, hand settling over her back, pulling their pup under his sphere of protection.

(In a few months, his mate would be sleeping alone in a thin pallet while Izuku stays in the nest with Eri and their newborn pup.

So they relish in the closeness while they still can.)

Despite the quiet, there’s no real silence. The wind howls outside. Fire pops and crackles in the hearth.

But in this space, in the nest they’ve built and made their own, Izuku could not have felt more safe.

Free.

“Kacchan,” Izuku murmurs, mind scattering into the blankness, slumber encroaching steady and still, “Eri told me today she wants to learn how to chop firewood.”

When the thought crystallizes between them, his Alpha stills, and Izuku tenses.

He hasn’t meant to say it out loud. Or so soon. It’s one thing for Omegas to profess such interests as pups, but it’s entirely another for them to actually participate in such an activity. It’s unseemly, and considered a distraction from the real lessons Omegas should learn while growing up.

(Katsuki, for all that he loves Eri, won’t understand. Not really. He’s an Alpha. And while Izuku’s certain his mate won’t forbid her interests outright, his dissuasion, gentle and kind as it probably will be, will still break their pup’s heart.)

The silence stretches and frays to its breaking point.

And just as Izuku opens his mouth to tell Katsuki to forget it, the Alpha speaks.

“Well, she’ll need to get used to waking up early,” his mate huffs into Izuku’s hair. “No way in hell will I let her near the ax right now, but she can still watch. Carry the logs around.” A pause.

“An’ if she still wants to when she’s older, I’ll show her the ropes.”

Izuku’s breath stops, unable to believe what he has just heard.

“Really?” He whispers, throat thick, feeling wet warmth gather at the back of his eyes. “You’d do that for her?”

Izuku feels his beloved nod. “Fuck what they think. ‘S what my baby girl wants.” His other arm shifts, sliding under Izuku’s neck to pat their daughter on the head.

“I’d give both of you the world if you asked me to.”

Izuku chuckles, quiet and choked, curling deeper into Katsuki’s embrace.

(He shouldn’t have doubted his mate.

Now, Eri will have the opportunities Izuku never had in his lifetime, with a proper teacher to help and guide her.)

“You’re wonderful,” he whispers into the hollow of his mate’s throat, meaning each word with all the sincerity and gratitude he can muster. “She’ll be so happy to hear that.”

“Enough talkin’.” The words, gruff and crude in tone, is both a dismissal and acknowledgement of Izuku’s unspoken worries. Their bodies unwind, seeking and coming home in the parts and spaces they belong to.

“Sleep, sweetheart.” the command is tenderly murmured into Izuku’s brow.

“We have a long day tomorrow.”

What a long day it will be too. A busy morning consisting of a heavier, more filling breakfast. A reunion between master and pet, sorely needed and missed. Afterwards, a journey across the plains to visit family, spending time in the company of their loved ones.

Then, going back home, just to do everything all over again.

Yes, their days are always long. Bustling. Tiring.

And yet, Izuku can’t help but wish for their days to be longer, closing his eyes.

“Sleep well, Kacchan.”

More and more and more.

Until it becomes forever.