He Put a Band-Aid on a Stranger's Cut — The Mafia Alpha Hasn't Washed That Hand in 3 Days
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00:00:00Three days ago, I watched him press a simple band-aid against a stranger's bleeding palm
00:00:05in the emergency room, and I have not washed that hand since, because the blonde Omega
00:00:10who smiled through his pain and thanked me with trembling lips vanished before I could
00:00:16ask his name, and now all I have left is the ghost of his touch on my skin and the
00:00:21faint
00:00:21trace of honey and jasmine that clings to my fingertips.
00:00:26And I know I am losing my mind because I am Kiran Volkov, heir to the most feared Mafia
00:00:32family in the city, and I have killed men without hesitation, but I cannot bring myself
00:00:37to scrub away the last evidence that he was real, that he existed, that for one moment
00:00:44someone looked at me like I was more than a monster.
00:00:48If you want to hear uncensored, too hot for YouTube stories, check out my Patreon in the
00:00:53description, tell us where you're watching from and subscribe.
00:00:57The emergency room reeked of antiseptic and fear.
00:01:01I hated hospitals.
00:01:02The fluorescent lights.
00:01:04The beeping machines.
00:01:06The way death lingered in every corner like an unwelcome guest.
00:01:10But my father had insisted I accompany him for his annual checkup.
00:01:14A ritual of control disguised as concern.
00:01:18The old bastard wanted to prove he was still strong enough to lead, still capable of crushing
00:01:23anyone who dared challenge the Volkov name.
00:01:26I stood against the wall, arms crossed, watching nurses rush past with clipboards and worried
00:01:33expressions.
00:01:35My black hair fell across my forehead, and I pushed it back with irritation.
00:01:39The sterile environment made my skin crawl.
00:01:44I was a predator trapped in a cage, and every instinct screamed at me to leave.
00:01:49Then the automatic door slid open and he walked in.
00:01:53Blonde hair catching the harsh overhead lights, one hand pressed against his ribs, the other
00:01:59clutching a small bag.
00:02:01His face was pale, lips pressed together in obvious pain, but he moved with determination.
00:02:07An omega.
00:02:09I could smell it from across the room.
00:02:11That sweet scent cutting through the chemical sharpness.
00:02:15Honey and jasmine.
00:02:17My wolf stirred immediately, interest spiking in a way that made my jaw clench.
00:02:23I had bedded countless omegas, used them for pleasure, and forgotten their names by morning.
00:02:30This should have been no different.
00:02:32But something about the way he carried himself, the quiet strength in his movements despite
00:02:37obvious injury, caught my attention and refused to let go.
00:02:43He approached the registration desk, speaking softly to the nurse.
00:02:47I could not hear the words, but I watched his mouth form them.
00:02:52Pretty mouth.
00:02:53Soft looking.
00:02:55The kind that would look even better wrapped around my length, stretched and struggling.
00:03:01The thought sent heat pooling low in my belly.
00:03:05The nurse gestured toward the waiting area, and he nodded, turning to find a seat.
00:03:10That was when I saw the blood.
00:03:13His left hand was wrapped in what looked like a kitchen towel, now soaked through with red.
00:03:18The fabric dripped onto the tile floor as he walked, leaving a trail.
00:03:24He seemed unaware, focused only on finding somewhere to sit.
00:03:29He chose a chair near the window, sinking into it with a barely audible gasp.
00:03:35His free hand pressed harder against his ribs, and I realized he was injured in more than one place.
00:03:41What the fuck had happened to him?
00:03:44The protective instinct that rose up shocked me.
00:03:48I did not do protection.
00:03:50I did not do concern.
00:03:53I took what I wanted, and left the rest to burn.
00:03:57But my feet were moving before I made the conscious decision,
00:04:01carrying me across the emergency room floor toward the bleeding Omega.
00:04:05He did not notice me approaching.
00:04:08His eyes were closed, head tilted back against the wall, breathing carefully through his nose.
00:04:15Up close, I could see the bruise forming along his cheekbone, the split in his lower lip,
00:04:22the way his entire body trembled with suppressed pain.
00:04:26Someone had hurt him.
00:04:29Someone had put their hands on this Omega and caused damage.
00:04:32The rage that flooded through me was immediate and volcanic.
00:04:36I wanted names.
00:04:37I wanted blood.
00:04:38I wanted to find whoever had done this and make them understand what real pain felt like.
00:04:45But first, I needed to help him.
00:04:48I crouched down beside his chair, bringing myself to eye level.
00:04:53His scent was stronger here, drowning out everything else.
00:04:57My wolf was practically howling, demanding I get closer, touch him, claim him.
00:05:04I shoved the instinct down with practiced control.
00:05:08His eyes opened slowly, focusing on me with obvious effort.
00:05:13They were blue.
00:05:15Clear, bright blue like the sky on the rare days when the city was not choked with smog.
00:05:22Beautiful.
00:05:23For a moment, we just stared at each other.
00:05:27I watched understanding Don in his expression, recognition of what I was.
00:05:33Alpha.
00:05:34Dominant.
00:05:36Dangerous.
00:05:36He should have been afraid.
00:05:38Most Omegas were when they got close enough to smell my pheromones,
00:05:42to sense the violence that lived just beneath my skin.
00:05:45But instead of fear, I saw wariness, caution.
00:05:49And beneath it, a flicker of something that might have been curiosity.
00:05:53You are bleeding, I said.
00:05:56My voice coming out rougher than intended.
00:05:58His gaze dropped to his rapt hand as if he had forgotten about it.
00:06:03Oh.
00:06:05Yes.
00:06:06He tried to smile and winced when the movement pulled at his split lip.
00:06:11I had an accident at work.
00:06:13The lie was obvious.
00:06:15Those bruises were not from an accident.
00:06:18They were from fists.
00:06:20From someone who knew how to hurt without leaving marks in visible places.
00:06:25I should have let it go.
00:06:28Should have walked away and forgotten the pretty blonde Omega with his soft scent and softer eyes.
00:06:34But I could not.
00:06:36Let me see.
00:06:37It was not a request.
00:06:39I reached for his hand before he could protest, carefully unwrapping the blood-soaked towel.
00:06:46The cut ran across his palm, deep enough to need stitches, probably from a blade.
00:06:52My fingers touched his skin, and the contact sent electricity shooting up my arm.
00:06:59His sharp inhale told me he felt it too.
00:07:02That undeniable pull between Alpha and Omega.
00:07:05The wound was still bleeding steadily.
00:07:08I looked around the emergency room.
00:07:10Every nurse and doctor was occupied, rushing between patients.
00:07:15The wait time would be hours.
00:07:17Unacceptable.
00:07:19Stay here, I commanded, standing.
00:07:23I walked to the supply closet I had noticed earlier.
00:07:26The one the nurses kept ducking into.
00:07:29The lock was simple.
00:07:31A basic key mechanism that took me less than thirty seconds to pick.
00:07:36Inside, I grabbed what I needed.
00:07:39Antiseptic, gauze, medical tape, and a box of butterfly bandages.
00:07:44When I returned, he was watching me with wide eyes.
00:07:48Did you just break into their supply closet?
00:07:52His voice was soft, melodic, despite the pain threading through it.
00:07:58I ignored the question, kneeling beside him again and taking his injured hand in both of mine.
00:08:05This will hurt.
00:08:07I did not wait for permission.
00:08:09I poured antiseptic directly onto the wound, watching his face as he bit down on his lower lip to keep
00:08:17from crying out.
00:08:19Tears gathered at the corners of his eyes, but they did not fall.
00:08:23Strong.
00:08:24So fucking strong.
00:08:26I worked quickly, using the butterfly bandages to pull the edges of the cut together, then wrapping his palm in
00:08:33clean gauze.
00:08:35My hands were steady, despite the way my heart was pounding, despite the overwhelming urge to lean forward and lick
00:08:42the tears from his face to taste the salt and claim it as mine.
00:08:46When I finished, I pressed a regular band-aid over the gauze, smoothing it down with my thumb.
00:08:53There.
00:08:55He looked at his hand, then at me.
00:09:00You did not have to do that.
00:09:02I should have left then.
00:09:04Should have stood up, walked away, and never thought about him again.
00:09:08But his scent was in my lungs, his touch still burning on my skin, and I could not move.
00:09:15What is your name?
00:09:17He hesitated, and I saw the moment he decided to lie.
00:09:21River.
00:09:22Not his real name.
00:09:23I could tell by the way his pulse jumped in his throat.
00:09:26But I did not push.
00:09:28Not yet.
00:09:30I am Kieran.
00:09:31I know, he said quietly.
00:09:34Everyone knows who you are.
00:09:36Of course they did.
00:09:38The Volkov name carried weight in this city, the kind that made people cross the street to avoid us.
00:09:44My father had built an empire on fear and blood, and I was being groomed to inherit it all.
00:09:51No one looked at me and saw anything except a monster.
00:09:55But River was looking at me differently.
00:09:58Like I was a person.
00:10:00Like the fact that I had just bandaged his hand mattered more than the bodies I had left in my
00:10:05wake.
00:10:06It made something in my chest tighten uncomfortably.
00:10:10Your ribs, I said, nodding toward where his hands still pressed against his side.
00:10:16Are they broken?
00:10:18I do not know.
00:10:20Maybe bruised?
00:10:21The same accident at work?
00:10:23The same lie?
00:10:25I wanted to demand the truth, to make him tell me who had done this so I could hunt them
00:10:30down and make them disappear.
00:10:33But the moment was fragile, and I sensed that pushing too hard would make him bolt.
00:10:38He needed to see a doctor.
00:10:41But when I glanced around the emergency room, it was even more chaotic than before.
00:10:46An ambulance had arrived, paramedics rushing in with someone on a stretcher.
00:10:51More patients filled the waiting area.
00:10:54He would be here for hours.
00:10:56Come with me, I said, standing and offering my hand.
00:11:00I know a private clinic.
00:11:02They will see you immediately.
00:11:04He stared at my outstretched palm like it was a trap.
00:11:08I should wait here.
00:11:10My insurance covers this hospital.
00:11:12Fuck your insurance.
00:11:14I will pay.
00:11:15He shook his head.
00:11:17I cannot accept that.
00:11:19I do not even know you.
00:11:21You know my name.
00:11:22You know what I am.
00:11:25And you know I am not going to hurt you.
00:11:27The last part came out softer than I intended.
00:11:31Almost gentle.
00:11:32His blue eyes searched my face, looking for deception.
00:11:36For danger.
00:11:38I held still and let him look.
00:11:40Let him see whatever he needed to see.
00:11:43Finally, slowly, he placed his uninjured hand in mine and let me pull him to his feet.
00:11:49The movement made him gasp, and I immediately wrapped an arm around his waist to steady him.
00:11:55The contact was electric.
00:11:57His body fit against mine like it was designed to be there, and my wolf practically purred with
00:12:02satisfaction.
00:12:03Mine, it whispered.
00:12:05This omega is mine.
00:12:08I shoved the thought away violently.
00:12:11I did not do relationships.
00:12:13Did not do commitment.
00:12:14I took what I wanted and discarded the rest.
00:12:18River was just another omega.
00:12:20Just another pretty face.
00:12:22The fact that his scent made my mouth water and my length harden meant nothing.
00:12:28I guided him toward the exit, aware of every eye that followed us.
00:12:33My father would hear about this within the hour.
00:12:36Kieran Volkoff leaving the emergency room with an injured blonde omega, treating him
00:12:42with a gentleness no one knew I possessed.
00:12:45There would be questions, assumptions, complications.
00:12:49I did not care.
00:12:52Outside, my driver was waiting beside the black Mercedes.
00:12:55He opened the door without comment, his face carefully blank.
00:12:59I helped River into the back seat, sliding in beside him.
00:13:04The clinic is fifteen minutes away, I told him.
00:13:07They are discreet and efficient.
00:13:09River nodded, his gaze fixed on his bandaged hand.
00:13:15Again.
00:13:16You do not need to keep thanking me.
00:13:19I glanced at his hand.
00:13:21At the white gauze now spotted with red where the bleeding had not quite stopped.
00:13:25Something fierce and possessive stirred in my chest.
00:13:29No one should have the right to hurt him.
00:13:31No one except me.
00:13:33And even then, the only pain I wanted to cause was the sweet kind.
00:13:38The kind that came from pleasure pushed to its limits.
00:13:42From a body surrendered completely to sensation.
00:13:45I wanted to hear him moan my name, to feel him clench around my knot, to watch his face
00:13:52as I filled him with my release until it dripped down his thighs.
00:13:56The thoughts came unbidden.
00:14:00Unwanted and far too vivid.
00:14:02My length was already half-hard, straining against my slacks.
00:14:07I shifted uncomfortably, trying to will away the arousal.
00:14:12River did not seem to notice.
00:14:14He was staring out the window, his reflection ghostly in the glass.
00:14:19In the enclosed space of the car, his scent was overwhelming.
00:14:23Honey and jasmine with an undertone of something else.
00:14:26Something uniquely him.
00:14:29It made my mouth water and my control fray at the edges.
00:14:33I had never reacted to an omega like this.
00:14:36Had never felt this consuming need to touch, to claim, to protect.
00:14:41It was dangerous.
00:14:42It was a weakness.
00:14:44And I could not afford weakness.
00:14:46We arrived at the clinic.
00:14:48A nondescript building tucked between a laundromat and a closed bookstore.
00:14:53Dr. Reeves owed my family more favors than he could count.
00:14:57He would see River immediately and ask no questions.
00:15:01I helped River out of the car.
00:15:03My hand on his lower back as we walked inside.
00:15:07The receptionist took one look at me and immediately picked up the phone.
00:15:11Dr. Reeves appeared within minutes.
00:15:14A thin man with graying hair and nervous hands.
00:15:17Mr. Volkov, he said, his voice carefully neutral.
00:15:22How can I help?
00:15:24My companion needs to be examined.
00:15:26Possible broken ribs and a laceration on his hand that may need stitches.
00:15:30Dr. Reeves nodded quickly.
00:15:33Of course.
00:15:34Please, come this way.
00:15:35He led us to a private examination room, gesturing for River to sit on the paper-covered table.
00:15:41I will need to remove your shirt, the doctor said gently, to examine your ribs.
00:15:48River hesitated, his gaze flickering to me.
00:15:52I should have left, should have given him privacy.
00:15:56But the thought of leaving him alone, even for a few minutes, made my wolf snarl in protest.
00:16:02I will stay, I said, unless you want me to leave.
00:16:06He shook his head slowly.
00:16:09You can stay.
00:16:11The doctor helped him ease out of his jacket and then his shirt, and I had to force myself not
00:16:16to react to what I saw.
00:16:18His torso was a canvas of bruises, dark purple and yellow, spreading across his ribs and around to his back.
00:16:26Defensive wounds.
00:16:28He had tried to protect himself.
00:16:30The rage I had felt earlier came roaring back, hotter and more vicious.
00:16:36I wanted to kill whoever had done this.
00:16:39Wanted to make them suffer the way they had made River suffer.
00:16:42Doctor.
00:16:43Reeves examined him carefully, his expression growing more concerned with each passing moment.
00:16:49Three cracked ribs, he said finally.
00:16:52Extensive bruising.
00:16:54You are lucky they are not fully broken.
00:16:58River nodded, his face carefully blank.
00:17:02Can you wrap them?
00:17:04The doctor hesitated.
00:17:06You should really file a police report.
00:17:08This was not an accident.
00:17:10I will handle it, I interrupted, my voice hard.
00:17:14Just treat him.
00:17:16Dr. Reeves looked like he wanted to argue, but one glance at my expression made him reconsider.
00:17:22He wrapped River's ribs in tight bandages, then examined his hand.
00:17:27The cut is deep, but the butterfly bandages are holding well.
00:17:32You did a good job, Mr. Volkov.
00:17:34I will add a few stitches to be safe, then proper bandaging.
00:17:39River sat perfectly still while the doctor worked, his blue eyes fixed on the wall.
00:17:46I watched his face, saw the way he disappeared inside himself, retreating from the pain.
00:17:53I recognized that look.
00:17:55I had seen it in the mirror often enough when I was younger, when my father's lessons about strength and
00:18:00power had left me bleeding.
00:18:03When it was over, Dr. Reeves gave River a bottle of pain medication and instructions for care.
00:18:10No heavy lifting.
00:18:12Rest as much as possible.
00:18:14Come back in a week to have the stitches removed.
00:18:17River thanked him quietly, and I paid in cash, enough to ensure the doctor's continued silence.
00:18:25Outside, the sun was setting, painting the sky in shades of orange and red.
00:18:31River stood on the sidewalk, holding his newly bandaged hand, and for the first time since I had seen him,
00:18:37he looked lost.
00:18:39Where do you live? I asked.
00:18:41I will take you home.
00:18:43He shook his head.
00:18:45I can take the bus.
00:18:47Do not be stupid.
00:18:49You can barely stand.
00:18:51Get in the car.
00:18:53He looked at me for a long moment, and I saw the war playing out in his expression.
00:18:58The need to accept help, battling against the instinct to protect himself, to not trust an alpha he barely knew.
00:19:05Finally, he gave me an address in the east side of the city.
00:19:08Not the worst neighborhood, but not far from it.
00:19:12I filed the information away as my driver pulled up to the curb.
00:19:16The ride was quiet.
00:19:18River leaned his head against the window, exhaustion evident in every line of his body.
00:19:23I wanted to pull him against my chest, let him rest on my shoulder, wrap my arms around him, and
00:19:29keep the world away.
00:19:32Instead, I sat rigidly on my side of the seat, hands clenched into fists to keep from reaching for him.
00:19:40We stopped in front of a run-down apartment building with peeling paint and broken windows.
00:19:45River opened the door before the driver could.
00:19:49Thank you, he said quietly, not looking at me.
00:19:54For everything.
00:19:56He was halfway out of the car when I grabbed his wrist, the uninjured one.
00:20:01The contact sent sparks at my arm again, that electric pull that I could not explain.
00:20:07Wait.
00:20:09He turned, blue eyes meeting mine.
00:20:12If you need anything, I began, then stopped because I did not know how to finish the sentence.
00:20:18If I need anything, what?
00:20:21Call a mafia heir for help?
00:20:24River seemed to understand what I was trying to say anyway.
00:20:27A small, sad smile touched his lips.
00:20:31I will be okay.
00:20:33You do not need to worry about me.
00:20:36But I knew, even as he walked away and disappeared into the building, that I would.
00:20:41I would worry about the blonde Omega with bruises on his ribs and secrets in his eyes.
00:20:46I would think about him constantly, obsessively, until I saw him again.
00:20:51And I would see him again.
00:20:54I had to.
00:20:55Because three days later, I still had not washed the hand that had touched his skin.
00:21:02The hand that had pressed the band-aid against his palm, that had felt his pulse racing beneath my fingers.
00:21:09I could still smell him on my skin.
00:21:12Honey and jasmine and something that was purely river.
00:21:17My staff thought I'd lost my mind.
00:21:20Perhaps I had.
00:21:21I held meetings with my hand tucked in my pocket, shook hands with my left instead of my right, made
00:21:27excuses when anyone commented.
00:21:29My father noticed, of course.
00:21:32He noticed everything.
00:21:34What is wrong with your hand, he asked during dinner on the second night.
00:21:39Nothing, I replied, cutting my steak one-handed.
00:21:43You have not washed it.
00:21:45I could smell Omega on you.
00:21:47The old man's eyes were sharp, calculating.
00:21:50Who is he?
00:21:52No one.
00:21:53A lie.
00:21:55River was not no one.
00:21:57He was the only thing I could think about.
00:22:00The only thing that mattered.
00:22:01My father leaned back in his chair, studying me.
00:22:05You were too old to be acting like a lovesick pup over some Omega.
00:22:09If you want him, take him.
00:22:11Use him.
00:22:12Then move on.
00:22:14I said nothing.
00:22:15But my grip on my fork tightened until my knuckles went white.
00:22:20My father did not understand.
00:22:23Could not understand.
00:22:25This was not about using someone and discarding them.
00:22:28This was about the way River had looked at me in the emergency room.
00:22:32The way his scent had wrapped around me and refused to let go.
00:22:36The way his touch had burned itself into my skin.
00:22:39On the third day, I went back to the hospital.
00:22:44I did not know why.
00:22:46River would not be there.
00:22:48He had no reason to return.
00:22:50But I walked through those automatic doors anyway, drawn by something I could not name.
00:22:55The emergency room was quieter today, less chaotic.
00:22:59I scanned the waiting area and my heart stopped.
00:23:02He was there.
00:23:04River.
00:23:06Sitting in the same chair near the window, his blonde hair catching the afternoon light.
00:23:12He was not injured this time, just waiting.
00:23:15For what, I did not know.
00:23:18I crossed the room and he looked up as I approached.
00:23:22His eyes widened in surprise.
00:23:25Kieran.
00:23:27The way he said my name made my chest tighten.
00:23:30What are you doing here?
00:23:32I could ask you the same thing.
00:23:35He glanced away.
00:23:37I am waiting for someone.
00:23:39A friend who works here.
00:23:41We are supposed to have lunch.
00:23:43Jealousy flared hot and immediate.
00:23:46A friend.
00:23:47Was it a lie like his name had been?
00:23:50Was there someone else, another alpha perhaps, who had a claim on him?
00:23:55I pushed the thought away viciously.
00:23:58You should not be here, he said softly.
00:24:01People will talk.
00:24:02Let them talk.
00:24:04I sat down beside him, close enough that our thighs almost touched.
00:24:09How are your ribs?
00:24:11Better.
00:24:12The medication helps.
00:24:14And your hand?
00:24:16He held it up, showing me the fresh bandages.
00:24:20Dr. Reeves did good work.
00:24:21I went back yesterday to check the stitches.
00:24:24He said they are healing well.
00:24:26Good.
00:24:28Silence stretched between us, heavy with unspoken words.
00:24:32I could smell him again.
00:24:34That intoxicating scent that made my wolf howl.
00:24:37My hand, the one I had refused to wash, curled into a fist on my knee.
00:24:43River noticed.
00:24:45Why have you not washed your hand?
00:24:47The question caught me off guard.
00:24:49I looked at him sharply, but his expression was genuinely curious, not mocking.
00:24:56How did you know?
00:24:57I can smell myself on you.
00:24:59He said it so matter-of-factly, like it was normal for an alpha to refuse to scrub away the
00:25:04last trace of an omega's touch.
00:25:07It is not.
00:25:09Because I wanted to remember.
00:25:11Remember what?
00:25:13That you are real.
00:25:15That I did not imagine you.
00:25:17His breath caught, and I saw the pulse jump in his throat.
00:25:22Kieran, he began, but I cut him off.
00:25:25I want to see you again.
00:25:27Not like this.
00:25:28Not by accident.
00:25:30He shook his head slowly.
00:25:32That is not a good idea.
00:25:34Why?
00:25:35Because you are Kieran Volkov.
00:25:37Because you are dangerous.
00:25:39Because I have enough problems without adding you to the list.
00:25:43The honesty stung, but I appreciated it more than empty flattery.
00:25:49What problems?
00:25:50Who hurt you?
00:25:52He stood abruptly, and I stood with him.
00:25:56I have to go.
00:25:58My friend will be here any minute.
00:26:00River.
00:26:01I caught his wrist again, the same one as before.
00:26:05Please.
00:26:06He looked down at where my fingers circled his skin, then up at my face.
00:26:11What do you want from me?
00:26:14I did not have an answer.
00:26:15I wanted everything and nothing.
00:26:17I wanted him safe.
00:26:18I wanted him in my bed.
00:26:20I wanted to know every secret he was hiding and protect him from whatever had put those
00:26:24bruises on his ribs.
00:26:27I want to know you.
00:26:29The truth, raw and vulnerable, hung between us.
00:26:34River pulled his wrist free gently.
00:26:38You do not want to know me, Kieran.
00:26:39You want to save me.
00:26:42There is a difference.
00:26:44Is there?
00:26:46Yes.
00:26:47He stepped back, putting distance between us.
00:26:50Thank you again for your help.
00:26:52I hope you can wash your hand now and move on.
00:26:56He turned and walked away before I could respond, disappearing through a set of double doors marked
00:27:01staff only.
00:27:03I stood there, hands still outstretched, and knew with absolute certainty that I would not
00:27:09move on.
00:27:11Could not move on.
00:27:13River was wrong.
00:27:15I did not just want to save him.
00:27:17I wanted to keep him.
00:27:19The days after that second encounter blurred together.
00:27:23I threw myself into work, into the family business, trying to forget the blonde Omega
00:27:28who had looked at me like I was capable of being more than a monster.
00:27:32It did not work.
00:27:34Every meeting, every deal, every time I had to break someone's fingers to make a point,
00:27:40I thought about River.
00:27:42About his blue eyes and soft voice.
00:27:45About the way he had flinched when I mentioned his injuries, but had not flinched when I touched
00:27:51him.
00:27:52My father grew impatient with my distraction.
00:27:56You are worthless like this, he said one evening, slamming his fist on the desk.
00:28:02Either fuck the Omega out of your system or forget him entirely.
00:28:06But I cannot have you mooning around like some pathetic teenager.
00:28:10I am handling it, I replied through gritted teeth.
00:28:14Handle it faster.
00:28:15We have shipments coming in next week.
00:28:17I need you focused.
00:28:19The shipments.
00:28:20It's right.
00:28:22Weapons moving through the port.
00:28:24Drugs hidden in shipping containers.
00:28:26Money laundering through half a dozen legitimate businesses.
00:28:30The Volkov Empire ran on blood and corruption.
00:28:34And I was expected to inherit it all without question.
00:28:38Some days I wondered what River would think if he knew the extent of what I did.
00:28:42If he knew about the warehouse where we kept people who crossed us.
00:28:46About the bodies that ended up in the river, weighted down,
00:28:49with chains, with chains, about the protection money we extorted from local businesses.
00:28:55He would run.
00:28:57Of course he would run.
00:28:59Any sane person would.
00:29:01But I could not stop thinking about him.
00:29:04Could not stop wanting him.
00:29:07It was an obsession.
00:29:08Unhealthy and consuming.
00:29:10And I knew it.
00:29:12On the fifth day, I gave in.
00:29:15I went to the address River had given me.
00:29:18The run-down apartment building on the east side.
00:29:21I told myself I just wanted to check on him.
00:29:23Make sure he was healing properly.
00:29:25It was a lie.
00:29:27Of course.
00:29:29I wanted to see him.
00:29:31Needed to see him.
00:29:34The building was worse in daylight.
00:29:36Graffiti covered the walls.
00:29:38Broken glass littered the entrance.
00:29:40And the smell of garbage hung heavy in the air.
00:29:43What was an Omega doing living in a place like this?
00:29:47Where was his family?
00:29:49His pack?
00:29:51I climbed the stairs to the third floor.
00:29:53Counting apartment numbers until I found his.
00:29:56312.
00:29:57I raised my hand to knock.
00:29:59Then hesitated.
00:30:01What was I doing?
00:30:03River had made it clear he did not want to see me again.
00:30:06That I should move on.
00:30:09But my knuckles were already connecting with the door before I could talk myself out of it.
00:30:14Footsteps approached from inside.
00:30:17The door opened a crack and River peered out.
00:30:20His eyes went wide when he saw me.
00:30:22Kieran.
00:30:24What are you doing here?
00:30:26Checking on you.
00:30:27He did not open the door wider.
00:30:30I am fine.
00:30:32The stitches are healing.
00:30:33You did not need to come all the way here.
00:30:36I wanted to.
00:30:38The admission hung between us.
00:30:40River's hand tightened on the door frame and I noticed the way he was standing.
00:30:45Carefully.
00:30:46Protectively.
00:30:47Like he was hiding something.
00:30:50Or someone.
00:30:52Is someone here?
00:30:53I asked, my voice sharper than intended.
00:30:57River's expression shuddered.
00:31:00That is none of your business.
00:31:02The jealousy that had been simmering beneath the surface boiled over.
00:31:07Is it another Alpha?
00:31:09Is that why you keep pushing me away?
00:31:11Because you already belong to someone?
00:31:13His eyes flashed with anger.
00:31:15The first real emotion I had seen from him beyond pain and wariness.
00:31:19I do not belong to anyone.
00:31:21I belong to myself.
00:31:23Then why?
00:31:24Why keep running from me?
00:31:26Because I am trying to protect you.
00:31:29The words stopped me cold.
00:31:31Protect me?
00:31:33From what?
00:31:35River laughed.
00:31:36A bitter sound.
00:31:38From me.
00:31:39From my life.
00:31:41From everything that comes with knowing me.
00:31:44You think I am dangerous because of my last name.
00:31:47But you have no idea what kind of trouble I carry.
00:31:50I leaned forward.
00:31:52Bracing one hand on the door frame above his head.
00:31:55Try me.
00:31:57For a long moment we just stared at each other.
00:32:00I could see the war in his eyes.
00:32:03The desire to let me in.
00:32:04Battling against the instinct to keep me away.
00:32:08Finally he stepped back.
00:32:10Opening the door wider.
00:32:12Come in.
00:32:14But do not say I did not warn you.
00:32:16I stepped inside.
00:32:18And the apartment was exactly what I expected.
00:32:21Small.
00:32:22Cramped.
00:32:23Furnished.
00:32:24With the bare minimum.
00:32:26A couch that had seen better days.
00:32:28A tiny kitchenette.
00:32:30A single bedroom visible through an open door.
00:32:33But it was clean.
00:32:35Meticulously clean.
00:32:37Like River was fighting against the decay of the building itself.
00:32:41He closed the door behind me and leaned against it.
00:32:44Say what you came to say.
00:32:46I did not come to say anything.
00:32:49I came to see you.
00:32:51Why?
00:32:53River pushed off the door.
00:32:55Frustration evident in every line of his body.
00:32:58Why do you keep doing this?
00:33:00Why do you keep showing up?
00:33:02Why can you not just forget about me like every other Alpha would?
00:33:05Because you are not like every other Omega I have met.
00:33:09But the honesty in my voice seemed to surprise him.
00:33:12River wrapped his arms around himself.
00:33:14A defensive gesture.
00:33:16What do you want from me, Kieran?
00:33:19The same question he had asked before.
00:33:22This time I had an answer.
00:33:25I want you to let me in.
00:33:27I want you to trust me.
00:33:29I want you to stop running.
00:33:31And I want to know who hurt you so I can make sure they never touch you again.
00:33:36His eyes glistened with unshed tears.
00:33:39You cannot fix this.
00:33:41You cannot fix me.
00:33:42I do not want to fix you.
00:33:44I just want to know you.
00:33:46River shook his head.
00:33:48You do not understand.
00:33:50The people who did this, they are not going to just disappear because a Volkov tells them to.
00:33:55They own me.
00:33:57The words sent ice through my veins.
00:34:00Own you?
00:34:01How?
00:34:03He turned away, walking to the window.
00:34:05I made mistakes.
00:34:07Borrowed money from the wrong people.
00:34:09Could not pay it back.
00:34:10They said I could work it off.
00:34:12I thought they meant labor.
00:34:14Cleaning.
00:34:15Cooking.
00:34:15Whatever.
00:34:17I did not realize what they actually meant
00:34:19until it was too late.
00:34:21My hands curled into fists.
00:34:23Who?
00:34:25River gave me a name and my blood ran cold.
00:34:28The Kozlov family.
00:34:31One of the rival organizations in the city
00:34:33known for their brutality and their trafficking operations.
00:34:37They specialized in omegas.
00:34:39Buying and selling them like property.
00:34:41We should give you the rest of the Kozlov family.
00:34:44Dmitry Kozlov ran one of the most brutal trafficking operations in the eastern districts,
00:34:49specializing in omega exploitation.
00:34:52They were not just rivals to the Volkovs.
00:34:55They were enemies.
00:34:57And they had their claws in River.
00:35:00How much do you owe them?
00:35:01I asked, my voice deadly calm.
00:35:05River turned back to face me.
00:35:07And the hopelessness in his expression made my chest ache.
00:35:11Seventy thousand.
00:35:12Plus interest that keeps growing every month.
00:35:15I work for them six nights a week at their club.
00:35:18Cleaning.
00:35:19Serving drinks.
00:35:20Whatever they tell me to do.
00:35:21But it is never enough.
00:35:23They keep adding fees.
00:35:25Penalties.
00:35:26Reasons why the debt is not going down.
00:35:29My jaw clenched so hard I heard my teeth grind.
00:35:33And the bruises?
00:35:35He looked away.
00:35:37Sometimes customers get aggressive.
00:35:39The Kozlovs do not care as long as I show up for my shifts.
00:35:43Last week someone tried to force me into a back room.
00:35:46I fought back.
00:35:48His voice dropped to a whisper.
00:35:51That is when I got the hand injury.
00:35:53He tried to stab me when I refused.
00:35:56White hot rage flooded through me.
00:35:58I was going to kill them.
00:36:00Every single person who had touched River.
00:36:03Who had hurt him.
00:36:04Who had made him believe he was property to be owned.
00:36:07I was going to burn the Kozlov empire to the ground.
00:36:11You are done working for them.
00:36:13I said flatly.
00:36:14No more shifts.
00:36:16No more debt.
00:36:17You are mine now.
00:36:20River's eyes widened.
00:36:22Kieran.
00:36:22You do not understand.
00:36:24If I do not show up.
00:36:26They will come looking for me.
00:36:28They will hurt people I care about.
00:36:30They will destroy what little I have left.
00:36:32Then I will destroy them first.
00:36:35River shook his head desperately.
00:36:38You cannot start a war with the Kozlovs over me.
00:36:41I am not worth it.
00:36:43Do not.
00:36:44I growled.
00:36:46Crossing the distance between us in two strides.
00:36:49Do not ever say you are not worth it.
00:36:51I gripped his shoulders.
00:36:53Forcing him to look at me.
00:36:55You are worth burning this entire city down.
00:36:58If that is what it takes.
00:36:59To keep you safe.
00:37:01Tears spilled down his cheeks.
00:37:04You do not even know me.
00:37:05I know enough.
00:37:07I know you are strong.
00:37:09I know you survived when anyone else would have broken.
00:37:12I know that when you smile.
00:37:14Even through pain.
00:37:16It makes me want to be someone better than the monster my father raised.
00:37:20And I know that I have not been able to stop thinking about you for even one second since I
00:37:25watched you walk into that emergency room.
00:37:28My thumb brushed away his tears.
00:37:31Let me help you.
00:37:33Let me end this.
00:37:34River searched my face.
00:37:37Looking for lies.
00:37:38For tricks.
00:37:40For the inevitable betrayal.
00:37:42But whatever he saw there made something in his expression crack open.
00:37:47Okay.
00:37:48He whispered.
00:37:50Okay.
00:37:52I pulled him into my arms and he collapsed against my chest.
00:37:55Sobbing.
00:37:57I held him while he shook.
00:37:59One hand stroking his blonde hair.
00:38:01The other pressed protectively against his lower back.
00:38:05His scent surrounded me.
00:38:07Honey and jasmine mixed with salt tears.
00:38:10And my wolf settled for the first time in days.
00:38:13Mine.
00:38:15He was mine now.
00:38:18And I would protect what was mine with everything I had.
00:38:21When his tears finally subsided, I tilted his chin up.
00:38:25I need you to pack a bag.
00:38:27You are not staying here tonight.
00:38:29River blinked.
00:38:31Where am I going?
00:38:33My penthouse.
00:38:34You will be safe there while I handle the Kozlovs.
00:38:38But Kirin?
00:38:39The debt.
00:38:41Consider it paid.
00:38:42I will transfer the full amount to them tomorrow, as settlement for your contract.
00:38:47Then I will make it very clear that you are under Volkov protection, and any attempt to contact you again
00:38:53will be considered an act of war.
00:38:56His breath hitched.
00:38:58You would do that?
00:38:59For me?
00:39:01Yes.
00:39:03The simple truth hung between us.
00:39:05River rose on his toes and pressed his lips to mine.
00:39:09The kiss was soft, tentative, tasting of tears and gratitude and something deeper.
00:39:15Something that made my entire body ignite.
00:39:18I kissed him back carefully, keeping my instincts leashed, even as my wolf howled for more.
00:39:26Not yet.
00:39:27Not when he was this fragile, this vulnerable.
00:39:30When I pulled back, his blue eyes were hazy.
00:39:36He whispered against my mouth.
00:39:38Do not thank me yet.
00:39:39I have not earned it.
00:39:41I helped him pack what little he owned.
00:39:44A few changes of clothes, some personal items, a battered book of poetry.
00:39:50Everything fit in one small bag.
00:39:52The fact that his entire life could be compressed into so little made my chest tight.
00:39:58We left the apartment, and I guided him to where my driver waited.
00:40:02River hesitated before getting in the car.
00:40:06What if this is a mistake?
00:40:08What if I am just trading one cage for another?
00:40:12I turned to face him fully.
00:40:14If you ever want to leave, you can.
00:40:17No debt, no obligation, no consequences.
00:40:20I will not hold you prisoner, River.
00:40:22You have my word.
00:40:24His eyes searched mine.
00:40:26Then he nodded and climbed into the Mercedes.
00:40:28The drive to my penthouse was quiet.
00:40:32River stared out the window, watching the city lights blur past.
00:40:36I could smell the anxiety rolling off him in waves.
00:40:40He was terrified.
00:40:43Understandable.
00:40:45He was placing his life in the hands of a man he barely knew.
00:40:49A man with a reputation for violence and ruthlessness,
00:40:53but he was also desperate enough to take the risk.
00:40:56My penthouse occupied the top floor of a high-rise in the financial district.
00:41:01Secure, private, and equipped with enough surveillance and protection
00:41:05to keep out anyone I did not want entering.
00:41:08When we stepped inside, River's eyes went wide.
00:41:13The space was modern and expensive.
00:41:16Floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the city.
00:41:19Sleek furniture.
00:41:20An open kitchen with marble countertops.
00:41:22Everything my father's money could buy.
00:41:25This is where you live?
00:41:27River asked softly.
00:41:29Yes.
00:41:30He set his bag down carefully.
00:41:32It is beautiful.
00:41:34I showed him to the guest bedroom.
00:41:37Though every instinct screamed at me to take him to my room instead,
00:41:40to keep him close,
00:41:41to never let him out of my sight.
00:41:44But he needed space.
00:41:46Needed to feel like he had some control.
00:41:49You can sleep here, I said.
00:41:52The bathroom is through that door.
00:41:54Help yourself to anything you need.
00:41:56River nodded, but he did not move toward the bed.
00:41:59Instead, he turned to me.
00:42:02Kieran?
00:42:03Yes?
00:42:04Will you stay?
00:42:06Just for a little while.
00:42:08I should not have.
00:42:09Should have given him privacy.
00:42:11Let him settle in alone.
00:42:13But the vulnerability in his voice made it impossible to refuse.
00:42:18I sat on the edge of the bed,
00:42:20and River curled up beside me,
00:42:22his head resting on my thigh.
00:42:25We stayed like that in silence,
00:42:27my hands stroking through his blonde hair while he slowly relaxed.
00:42:32Eventually, his breathing evened out,
00:42:34and I realized he had fallen asleep.
00:42:37I looked down at the Omega in my lap,
00:42:39at the bruises still visible on his face,
00:42:42at the bandage on his hand.
00:42:45Something fierce and possessive swelled in my chest,
00:42:48mine to protect,
00:42:50mine to care for.
00:42:52Mine.
00:42:54I carefully shifted him onto the bed,
00:42:56pulling the covers over him.
00:42:58He murmured something in his sleep but did not wake.
00:43:02I stood there watching him for a long moment,
00:43:04then forced myself to leave the room
00:43:06before I did something I would regret.
00:43:09Like crawling into bed beside him,
00:43:12like pressing my mouth to his throat
00:43:14and marking him so everyone would know he belonged to me.
00:43:17Like stripping us both bare
00:43:19and claiming him the way my instincts demanded.
00:43:22Not yet.
00:43:23He needed safety first.
00:43:25Everything else could wait.
00:43:26I went to my office and made a call.
00:43:30Dmitry Kozlov answered on the third ring.
00:43:33Fulkov, he said,
00:43:35his voice dripping with false warmth.
00:43:38To what do I owe the pleasure?
00:43:41I am calling about an Omega named River.
00:43:43You hold a debt contract on him.
00:43:46There was a pause.
00:43:48What about him?
00:43:50Consider the debt paid in full.
00:43:52I will wire $70,000 to your account tomorrow morning.
00:43:56In return,
00:43:57you will destroy the contract
00:43:59and cease all contact with him immediately.
00:44:02Dmitry laughed.
00:44:04That Omega owes me far more than $70,000 now.
00:44:07With interest and penalties,
00:44:09his debt is closer to $200,000.
00:44:11And even if you paid that,
00:44:13why would I let go of such a profitable asset?
00:44:17Because if you do not,
00:44:19I will consider it a declaration of war.
00:44:22And you know exactly how that will end for you.
00:44:25The laughter stopped.
00:44:27You would risk the fragile peace between our families over one Omega?
00:44:31Without hesitation,
00:44:33silence stretched across the line.
00:44:35Then Dmitry spoke again,
00:44:38his voice cold.
00:44:40$300,000.
00:44:42Final offer.
00:44:43And you stay out of my territory for six months.
00:44:47Done.
00:44:48But Volkov,
00:44:49if I ever see that Omega near my clubs again,
00:44:52the deal is void.
00:44:53You will not.
00:44:55Because if any of your people so much as look at him,
00:44:57I will personally remove their eyes.
00:45:00I hung up before he could respond.
00:45:03$300,000 was nothing.
00:45:05A rounding error in the Volkov accounts.
00:45:08River's freedom was worth a hundred times that.
00:45:11I made the wire transfer immediately,
00:45:14then sent Dmitry the confirmation.
00:45:17Within an hour,
00:45:18I received a scanned copy of River's contract,
00:45:21stamped with Kozlov's seal and marked,
00:45:24paid in full,
00:45:26dissolved.
00:45:27It was done.
00:45:28River was free.
00:45:30I wanted to wake him.
00:45:32To show him the proof.
00:45:33To see the relief on his face.
00:45:36But he needed rest more than he needed good news that could wait until morning.
00:45:40So I went to my own room,
00:45:42stripped down,
00:45:43and tried to sleep.
00:45:44It did not come easily.
00:45:46My wolf was restless,
00:45:48pacing,
00:45:49demanding I go to River and make sure he was still there.
00:45:52Still safe.
00:45:54Still mine.
00:45:56Eventually,
00:45:57exhaustion won.
00:45:59I woke to the smell of coffee and honey.
00:46:02For a moment,
00:46:03I was disoriented.
00:46:04Then I remembered.
00:46:06River.
00:46:08I pulled on sleep pants and a shirt and followed the scent to the kitchen.
00:46:13River stood at the counter,
00:46:15pouring coffee into two mugs.
00:46:16He had found one of my shirts and put it on,
00:46:19the fabric hanging loose on his smaller frame.
00:46:22The sight made something primal stir in my chest.
00:46:26He looked up when I entered,
00:46:28a shy smile on his face.
00:46:30Good morning.
00:46:31I made coffee.
00:46:33I hope that is okay.
00:46:35It is more than okay.
00:46:38I took the mug he offered,
00:46:39our fingers brushing.
00:46:42The contact sent the familiar electric spark up my arm.
00:46:45Did you sleep well?
00:46:47Better than I have in months.
00:46:49He took a sip of his coffee.
00:46:52For everything.
00:46:54You do not need to keep thanking me.
00:46:56I wanted to help.
00:46:57His blue eyes met mine over the rim of his mug.
00:47:00Why?
00:47:02The question again.
00:47:04The one I had been asking myself since the moment I saw him.
00:47:08I set my coffee down and stepped closer,
00:47:11giving him room to back away if he wanted.
00:47:14He did not.
00:47:17Because when I look at you,
00:47:18I see someone worth protecting.
00:47:21Someone worth fighting for.
00:47:23Someone I do not want to lose.
00:47:25River's breath hitched.
00:47:26Kieran.
00:47:28I reached up,
00:47:30cupping his face gently.
00:47:32The bruise on his cheekbone was fading to yellow,
00:47:35and his split lip was nearly healed.
00:47:37I brushed my thumb across it carefully.
00:47:40I paid your debt last night.
00:47:43$300,000 to Dmitry Kozlov.
00:47:45The contract is dissolved.
00:47:47You are free.
00:47:49His eyes went wide,
00:47:51the mug slipping from his fingers.
00:47:53It shattered on the tile floor,
00:47:55coffee spreading in a dark pool.
00:47:58He stared at me in shock.
00:48:00What?
00:48:01You are free,
00:48:02I repeated.
00:48:03No more debt.
00:48:04No more Kozlovs.
00:48:06No more working in that club.
00:48:07It is over.
00:48:09River's legs gave out,
00:48:10and I caught him before he hit the ground.
00:48:13He clung to me,
00:48:14shaking.
00:48:15You paid $300,000 for me?
00:48:17Yes,
00:48:18but I am not worth that much.
00:48:19I am just an Omega with nothing to offer.
00:48:22You are worth more than any amount of money.
00:48:26I lifted him easily,
00:48:27carrying him to the couch and setting him down.
00:48:30Glass crunched under my bare feet,
00:48:32but I ignored it.
00:48:34River looked up at me,
00:48:36tears streaming down his face.
00:48:39I do not understand.
00:48:41Why would you do this?
00:48:43What do you want from me in return?
00:48:45Nothing you are not willing to give.
00:48:48His hands fisted in my shirt.
00:48:51I do not have anything, Kieran.
00:48:53No money,
00:48:53no family,
00:48:54no skills.
00:48:55I cannot repay you.
00:48:57I do not want repayment.
00:48:58I want you safe.
00:49:00I want you here.
00:49:01I want to wake up and smell your coffee every morning
00:49:04and know you are not being hurt by men
00:49:06who think they own you.
00:49:08He pulled me down
00:49:09until our foreheads touched.
00:49:12No one has ever cared about me like this.
00:49:15I do not know what to do.
00:49:17You do not have to do anything.
00:49:19Just stay.
00:49:20Let me take care of you.
00:49:22Can you do that?
00:49:24River nodded against me.
00:49:26Yes,
00:49:27I can do that.
00:49:28I kissed him then,
00:49:30slow and deep,
00:49:32tasting coffee and tears
00:49:33and the sweet relief
00:49:34of finally having him safe in my arms.
00:49:38He kissed me back,
00:49:39just as desperately,
00:49:41his fingers tangling in my black hair,
00:49:43pulling me closer.
00:49:45When we broke apart,
00:49:47we were both breathing hard.
00:49:49River's pupils were blown wide,
00:49:52his scent shifting into something richer,
00:49:54headier.
00:49:56Arousal.
00:49:57My body responded immediately,
00:49:59length hardening,
00:50:01alpha instincts roaring to life,
00:50:03but I forced myself to pull back.
00:50:05Not yet.
00:50:06You are still healing.
00:50:08I do not want to hurt you.
00:50:10I am not that fragile,
00:50:12he whispered,
00:50:13and I want this.
00:50:14I want you.
00:50:16Are you sure?
00:50:18Because once I start,
00:50:19I will not be able to stop.
00:50:20I will want all of you.
00:50:22River's blue eyes held mine.
00:50:25Then take all of me.
00:50:27Something in me snapped.
00:50:29I claimed his mouth again,
00:50:31harder this time,
00:50:32letting him feel the hunger
00:50:33I had been holding back.
00:50:35He moaned into the kiss,
00:50:37arching against me.
00:50:38I slid my hands under the borrowed shirt,
00:50:41feeling the warmth of his skin,
00:50:43the bandages still wrapped around his ribs.
00:50:46Careful.
00:50:48Always careful with him.
00:50:50I broke the kiss long enough
00:50:52to pull the shirt over his head
00:50:53and my breath caught.
00:50:56He was beautiful.
00:50:58Slender and pale,
00:51:00the bruises still visible but fading.
00:51:02I traced them gently with my fingertips.
00:51:05Who did this?
00:51:07River's breath stuttered.
00:51:08Does it matter now?
00:51:09They cannot touch you anymore.
00:51:12Yes, he agreed.
00:51:14They cannot?
00:51:15I leaned down
00:51:16and pressed my lips to each bruise,
00:51:18kissing them
00:51:19like I could heal them
00:51:19through touch alone.
00:51:21River trembled beneath me,
00:51:23small sounds escaping his throat.
00:51:26When I reached the bandages
00:51:27around his ribs,
00:51:29I paused.
00:51:31Do these hurt?
00:51:32A little,
00:51:33but not enough to stop.
00:51:35I kissed along the edge
00:51:36of the bandages,
00:51:37then lower,
00:51:38across his flat stomach.
00:51:40His muscles jumped under my mouth.
00:51:43I looked up at him.
00:51:45Tell me if I need to stop.
00:51:47I will not stop.
00:51:48He promised.
00:51:49I want everything you will give me.
00:51:51I hooked my fingers
00:51:52in the waistband
00:51:53of his borrowed sleep pants
00:51:55and pulled them down slowly,
00:51:56giving him time to change his mind.
00:51:59He lifted his hips to help,
00:52:02and then he was bare before me.
00:52:04My mouth went dry.
00:52:07He was already hard,
00:52:09his length flushed and leaking.
00:52:11The scent of his arousal
00:52:12filled the air,
00:52:14honey and jasmine
00:52:15and pure need.
00:52:16So beautiful,
00:52:18I murmured.
00:52:19So perfect.
00:52:21River's cheeks flushed pink.
00:52:23Kieran, please.
00:52:25I wrapped my hand around him,
00:52:26and he gasped,
00:52:27hips jerking.
00:52:29I stroked slowly,
00:52:30watching his face,
00:52:31learning what made him moan,
00:52:33what made his eyes flutter closed.
00:52:35His body was so responsive,
00:52:37so eager for touch.
00:52:39When I leaned down
00:52:40and took him into my mouth,
00:52:42he cried out,
00:52:43one hand flying to my hair.
00:52:45I worked him with lips and tongue,
00:52:47taking him deeper,
00:52:48feeling him pulse against my tongue.
00:52:51He tasted clean and slightly salty,
00:52:53and I wanted more,
00:52:55wanted everything.
00:52:57River was panting now,
00:52:59his free hand fisted in the couch cushion.
00:53:01Kieran, I'm going to finish.
00:53:03I did not pull away.
00:53:05I took him deeper,
00:53:07sucking hard,
00:53:08and he came with a sharp cry,
00:53:10spilling into my mouth.
00:53:12I swallowed everything he gave me,
00:53:14working him through it
00:53:15until he was shaking
00:53:16and oversensitive.
00:53:18When I pulled off,
00:53:20his eyes were glazed,
00:53:22his chest heaving.
00:53:24That was incredible,
00:53:25he breathed.
00:53:27We are not done.
00:53:28I stripped off my own clothes quickly,
00:53:31and River's eyes went wide
00:53:33when he saw my length,
00:53:34thick and hard and leaking.
00:53:37I was bigger than most alphas,
00:53:39and I watched him swallow nervously.
00:53:42We do not have to go further
00:53:44if you are not ready.
00:53:45I want to,
00:53:47he insisted.
00:53:48I want all of you.
00:53:50I positioned myself between his legs,
00:53:53lifting them carefully
00:53:54to avoid his injured ribs.
00:53:56Do you have slick?
00:53:58He nodded,
00:53:59and I could already smell it,
00:54:02that sweet wetness
00:54:03that meant his body
00:54:04was preparing itself.
00:54:06I pressed a finger
00:54:07against his entrance,
00:54:08and he was already soaking,
00:54:10opening easily for me.
00:54:12So ready,
00:54:13I murmured,
00:54:14working one finger inside.
00:54:17So eager for your alpha.
00:54:19River moaned.
00:54:20Yes,
00:54:21please, Kieran.
00:54:23I added a second finger,
00:54:24stretching him.
00:54:25And he rocked down onto my hand.
00:54:28His body was so tight
00:54:29and hot around my fingers,
00:54:32clenching rhythmically.
00:54:34When I added a third finger,
00:54:36he was already begging for more.
00:54:38I could not wait any longer.
00:54:41I positioned my length
00:54:43at his entrance
00:54:43and pushed in slowly,
00:54:46watching his face
00:54:47for any sign of pain.
00:54:48His expression was pure bliss.
00:54:51His body opened for me,
00:54:53taking me inch by inch
00:54:54until I was fully seated inside him.
00:54:57We both froze,
00:54:59breathing hard.
00:55:00You feel amazing,
00:55:02I managed.
00:55:03So tight,
00:55:04so perfect.
00:55:05Move,
00:55:06River begged.
00:55:07Please move.
00:55:09I pulled out slowly
00:55:10and thrust back in,
00:55:11and River cried out.
00:55:13I set a steady rhythm,
00:55:14careful of his ribs,
00:55:15watching him come apart beneath me.
00:55:18His length was already hardening again,
00:55:20trapped between our bodies.
00:55:22I reached between us
00:55:24and stroked him in time
00:55:25with my thrusts.
00:55:26The pleasure built higher and higher.
00:55:30River was babbling now,
00:55:31a stream of yes
00:55:32and please
00:55:33and Kieran
00:55:34and more and harder.
00:55:35I could feel my knot
00:55:36starting to swell,
00:55:37and I knew I should pull out,
00:55:39should not tie him on
00:55:40our first time together,
00:55:42but River wrapped his legs
00:55:43around my waist
00:55:44and pulled me deeper.
00:55:46Not me,
00:55:47he demanded.
00:55:49I want to feel it.
00:55:50Are you sure?
00:55:52Yes.
00:55:53Please.
00:55:55I want all of you.
00:55:56I want to be yours completely.
00:55:59I thrust harder,
00:56:00faster,
00:56:01feeling my knot
00:56:02catch on his rim
00:56:03with each stroke.
00:56:04River was moaning
00:56:05continuously now,
00:56:07his body tightening around me.
00:56:09When my knot
00:56:10finally swelled fully
00:56:11and locked us together,
00:56:12we both cried out.
00:56:14The sensation was overwhelming,
00:56:16my length pulsing inside him,
00:56:18filling him with my release.
00:56:21River came again,
00:56:22untouched,
00:56:23his body clenching around my knot,
00:56:26milking me.
00:56:27We collapsed together,
00:56:29locked and trembling.
00:56:31I carefully shifted us
00:56:33onto our sides,
00:56:34keeping him close.
00:56:36My knot would not go down
00:56:37for at least 20 minutes.
00:56:40River was breathing hard,
00:56:41his face pressed against my neck.
00:56:44That was incredible,
00:56:46he whispered.
00:56:47You are incredible.
00:56:49I stroked his hair,
00:56:51feeling a contentment
00:56:51I had never known.
00:56:53You are mine now,
00:56:54completely.
00:56:55Say it.
00:56:56I am yours,
00:56:58River agreed,
00:56:59completely.
00:57:00We stayed locked together,
00:57:02murmuring soft words,
00:57:04trading lazy kisses.
00:57:06When my knot finally released,
00:57:08I carried him to my bathroom
00:57:10and started a warm bath.
00:57:12We soaked together
00:57:13and I washed him gently,
00:57:15careful of his healing injuries.
00:57:17This is real,
00:57:19River said quietly.
00:57:21This is not just about the debt
00:57:22or the danger.
00:57:24This is real.
00:57:26I kissed his temple.
00:57:28This is real.
00:57:29I want you in my life,
00:57:31River,
00:57:31not as someone I saved,
00:57:32but as my partner,
00:57:34my omega,
00:57:35mine.
00:57:36His arms tightened around me.
00:57:39I never thought I could have this,
00:57:41have someone who cared.
00:57:42You have me now,
00:57:44for as long as you want me.
00:57:46Forever then,
00:57:47River said softly.
00:57:49I want you forever.
00:57:51Forever.
00:57:52I agreed.
00:57:54The days that followed
00:57:55were peaceful in a way
00:57:57I had never experienced.
00:57:58River moved into my penthouse
00:58:00permanently,
00:58:01slowly making it ours
00:58:03instead of just mine.
00:58:05He filled the space
00:58:06with small touches,
00:58:07fresh flowers
00:58:08on the kitchen counter,
00:58:09his poetry books
00:58:10on the shelves,
00:58:11the scent of honey
00:58:12and jasmine
00:58:13in every room.
00:58:14My father was furious
00:58:16when he learned
00:58:16about the Kozlov payment.
00:58:19Three hundred thousand
00:58:20for an omega?
00:58:21He raged.
00:58:22Have you lost your mind?
00:58:24No.
00:58:25I have found something
00:58:26worth protecting.
00:58:27The old man studied me.
00:58:30You are in love with him?
00:58:32Yes,
00:58:33I am.
00:58:34It will make you weak.
00:58:35It makes me stronger.
00:58:38I have something
00:58:39to fight for now,
00:58:40something worth building
00:58:41an empire to protect.
00:58:43My father shook his head
00:58:45but did not push further.
00:58:46He recognized the resolve
00:58:48in my voice.
00:58:49River was non-negotiable.
00:58:52A month later,
00:58:53River's stitches came out.
00:58:55His ribs healed completely.
00:58:57The bruises faded to nothing,
00:58:59but the scars remained.
00:59:02Invisible ones.
00:59:04The kind that lived
00:59:05in nightmares
00:59:05and flinches
00:59:06at sudden movements.
00:59:08I helped him
00:59:08through each one,
00:59:09patient and steady.
00:59:12He started going to therapy,
00:59:14working through the trauma
00:59:15the Kozlovs had left behind.
00:59:17Some nights,
00:59:17he woke up screaming,
00:59:19convinced he was back
00:59:20in that club,
00:59:21back in that debt.
00:59:23I would hold him
00:59:25until the shaking stopped,
00:59:26until he remembered
00:59:27he was safe,
00:59:28until he believed me
00:59:29when I whispered
00:59:30that no one would ever
00:59:31hurt him again.
00:59:32On good days,
00:59:33he would cook breakfast
00:59:35while I worked,
00:59:36humming softly to himself.
00:59:38On bad days,
00:59:39he would curl up
00:59:40on the couch
00:59:41with his poetry book,
00:59:42and I would sit beside him
00:59:44in silence,
00:59:45just being present.
00:59:47Slowly,
00:59:48the good days
00:59:49outnumbered the bad.
00:59:51Three months
00:59:52after he moved in,
00:59:53River started volunteering
00:59:54at a youth center
00:59:55for at-risk omegas.
00:59:57He wanted to help others
00:59:59who had been where he was,
01:00:00to show them
01:00:01there was a way out.
01:00:02I made sure
01:00:03the center
01:00:04had everything it needed.
01:00:06Security,
01:00:07funding,
01:00:08resources.
01:00:09River never asked me to,
01:00:11but I did it anyway
01:00:12because seeing him smile
01:00:14when he talked about
01:00:14the kids he was helping
01:00:16was worth
01:00:17any amount of money.
01:00:19Six months in,
01:00:20we had our first real fight.
01:00:22River wanted to get a job,
01:00:24to contribute financially.
01:00:25I told him
01:00:26he did not need to work,
01:00:28that I had more than enough
01:00:29for both of us.
01:00:30He called me controlling,
01:00:32I called him stubborn.
01:00:34We both said things
01:00:36we did not mean.
01:00:38He locked himself
01:00:39in the guest bedroom,
01:00:41and I punched a hole
01:00:42in the office wall.
01:00:43But an hour later,
01:00:45we both emerged
01:00:46and apologized.
01:00:47He explained
01:00:49that he needed
01:00:49to feel useful,
01:00:50to have his own identity
01:00:52beyond being
01:00:52Kiran Volkov's Omega.
01:00:55I explained
01:00:56that I was terrified
01:00:57of him being out
01:00:58in the world
01:00:58without protection,
01:01:00of someone recognizing him
01:01:01from his time
01:01:02with the Kozlovs
01:01:03and trying to hurt him.
01:01:05We compromised.
01:01:07He got a job
01:01:08at a bookstore,
01:01:10quiet and safe,
01:01:11and I hired security
01:01:12to watch the building
01:01:13without him knowing.
01:01:15He pretended
01:01:16not to notice the guards.
01:01:18I pretended
01:01:19I was not checking in
01:01:20every hour.
01:01:21It worked.
01:01:23A year after
01:01:24that first night
01:01:25in the emergency room,
01:01:26I took River back
01:01:27to the hospital.
01:01:29Not as patients,
01:01:30but as visitors.
01:01:32I'm going to make
01:01:33a donation,
01:01:34I told him,
01:01:35to expand
01:01:36the emergency services,
01:01:38to help people
01:01:39who come in
01:01:39hurt and scared
01:01:40like you were.
01:01:42River's eyes
01:01:43filled with tears.
01:01:45In my name,
01:01:47in our name.
01:01:49We walked past
01:01:50the waiting area
01:01:51where I'd first seen him,
01:01:53past the supply closet
01:01:54I'd broken into.
01:01:56River stopped
01:01:57at the chair
01:01:58where he had been
01:01:58sitting that day.
01:02:00I never thought
01:02:01this would happen,
01:02:02he said.
01:02:03Never thought
01:02:04the man who bandaged
01:02:05my hand
01:02:06would become
01:02:06my entire world.
01:02:08I pulled him close.
01:02:10I never thought
01:02:12I would find
01:02:12someone worth
01:02:13not washing my hand
01:02:14for three days.
01:02:16He laughed,
01:02:17bright and real.
01:02:18You are ridiculous.
01:02:20I am yours.
01:02:22Same thing.
01:02:23We left the hospital
01:02:25hand in hand
01:02:26and for the first time
01:02:27since that night
01:02:28I let him see me
01:02:30wash my hands thoroughly.
01:02:32The scent finally
01:02:34faded completely
01:02:34from my skin
01:02:36but it did not
01:02:37matter anymore.
01:02:38I had the real thing now.
01:02:41I had River
01:02:43and I was never
01:02:44letting go.
01:02:46Two years later,
01:02:47on the anniversary
01:02:48of the day
01:02:49I paid his debt,
01:02:50I proposed.
01:02:51We were in the penthouse.
01:02:53River curled up
01:02:54against my chest
01:02:55on the couch,
01:02:56reading poetry aloud
01:02:57while I pretended
01:02:58to work on my laptop.
01:02:59I had been carrying
01:03:01the ring in my pocket
01:03:02for weeks,
01:03:03waiting for the
01:03:03perfect moment.
01:03:05But sitting there,
01:03:07listening to his
01:03:08soft voice,
01:03:09smelling honey
01:03:10and jasmine,
01:03:11feeling the warmth
01:03:12of his body
01:03:13against mine,
01:03:14I realized
01:03:15there would never
01:03:15be a more perfect
01:03:16moment than this.
01:03:18River,
01:03:19I interrupted.
01:03:20He looked up,
01:03:21surprised.
01:03:21Yes?
01:03:23Marry me.
01:03:24He blinked.
01:03:26What?
01:03:27I set the laptop
01:03:28aside and pulled
01:03:29out the ring.
01:03:30A simple platinum
01:03:32band with a small
01:03:33blue stone
01:03:34the exact color
01:03:35of his eyes.
01:03:36Marry me.
01:03:37Be my husband.
01:03:38Let me spend
01:03:39the rest of my life
01:03:40protecting you
01:03:41and loving you
01:03:42and waking up
01:03:43to your coffee
01:03:43every morning.
01:03:45River's hands
01:03:46flew to his mouth,
01:03:48tears already
01:03:49streaming.
01:03:51Kiran,
01:03:52I am serious.
01:03:53I want you as my
01:03:55partner in everything,
01:03:56in the business,
01:03:57in life,
01:03:58in whatever comes next.
01:03:59I want to mark you
01:04:01properly,
01:04:01to bond you,
01:04:03to make sure
01:04:03everyone in this city
01:04:04knows you are mine
01:04:05and I am yours.
01:04:06Will you marry me?
01:04:08He launched himself
01:04:10at me,
01:04:10knocking us both
01:04:11back against the couch.
01:04:13Yes.
01:04:14Yes.
01:04:16A thousand times
01:04:17yes.
01:04:19I slipped the ring
01:04:20onto his finger
01:04:21and he kissed me
01:04:22like his life
01:04:23depended on it.
01:04:25We made love
01:04:26right there on the couch,
01:04:27slow and tender,
01:04:28and when I bit down
01:04:30on his bonding gland,
01:04:31he cried from happiness.
01:04:34The wedding was small,
01:04:36just close family
01:04:37and friends.
01:04:38My father attended,
01:04:40though he still
01:04:41did not fully understand.
01:04:43River's former co-worker
01:04:45from the cafe came,
01:04:46the friend who had helped him
01:04:48survive those dark months.
01:04:50We exchanged vows
01:04:51in the penthouse
01:04:52with the city
01:04:53spread out below us,
01:04:55and when the officiant
01:04:56pronounced us married,
01:04:58River smiled so brightly
01:04:59it hurt to look at him.
01:05:01Our wedding night
01:05:02was perfect.
01:05:03I took my time with him,
01:05:06worshipping every inch
01:05:07of his body,
01:05:08making him come apart
01:05:09over and over
01:05:10until he was boneless
01:05:11and satisfied.
01:05:12When we finally collapsed
01:05:14together,
01:05:14locked by my knot,
01:05:16he whispered
01:05:16against my neck,
01:05:18thank you for saving me.
01:05:20You saved yourself,
01:05:22I corrected.
01:05:23I just gave you the tools.
01:05:25No,
01:05:26he insisted.
01:05:27You gave me everything.
01:05:29Years passed.
01:05:31We built a life together,
01:05:33one careful decision
01:05:34at a time.
01:05:35River continued his work
01:05:37with At-Risk Omegas,
01:05:39eventually opening
01:05:40his own non-profit.
01:05:41I gradually took over
01:05:43more of the family business,
01:05:44though I steered us away
01:05:45from the darker activities
01:05:46my father had favored.
01:05:48We had our fights
01:05:49and our struggles.
01:05:51There were nights
01:05:52when River's past
01:05:53came back to haunt him,
01:05:54when he woke up
01:05:55screaming about men
01:05:56with rough hands
01:05:57and cold eyes.
01:05:59There were days
01:06:00when my work brought
01:06:01violence to our door,
01:06:02when I had to make choices
01:06:04that left blood on my hands,
01:06:05but we always came back
01:06:07to each other.
01:06:09Always chose each other.
01:06:11Always remembered
01:06:12that we were stronger together
01:06:14than we ever were apart.
01:06:16Five years after we married,
01:06:18River came home
01:06:19from the doctor
01:06:19with news
01:06:20that changed everything.
01:06:22I am pregnant.
01:06:24I had been reading reports
01:06:26at my desk.
01:06:27The papers scattered everywhere
01:06:29when I jumped up.
01:06:31What?
01:06:32He was crying
01:06:33and laughing
01:06:34at the same time.
01:06:36I am pregnant.
01:06:38We are going to have a baby.
01:06:40I crossed the room
01:06:41in two strides
01:06:42and swept him into my arms,
01:06:44spinning him around.
01:06:45When I set him down,
01:06:47I dropped to my knees
01:06:48and pressed my ear
01:06:49against his still flat stomach.
01:06:52Our child.
01:06:53Our future.
01:06:55Our everything.
01:06:57The pregnancy
01:06:58was difficult
01:06:58from the start.
01:07:00River was sick
01:07:01constantly
01:07:02during the first trimester,
01:07:03unable to keep
01:07:04anything down.
01:07:06I watched him
01:07:07grow thinner
01:07:07even as his belly
01:07:09began to swell
01:07:09and the fear
01:07:11that gripped me
01:07:12was unlike anything
01:07:12I had faced
01:07:13in the criminal world.
01:07:15This was something
01:07:16I could not control
01:07:17with money or violence.
01:07:19All I could do
01:07:20was hold his hair back
01:07:21while he vomited,
01:07:22bring him crackers
01:07:23and ginger tea
01:07:24at three in the morning
01:07:25and whisper promises
01:07:27that everything
01:07:27would be okay
01:07:28even when I was terrified
01:07:30it would not be.
01:07:32His body struggled
01:07:33with the strain
01:07:34of carrying.
01:07:35The doctors warned us
01:07:37about complications,
01:07:38about the risks
01:07:39for male omegas,
01:07:41about the possibility
01:07:42that we might have
01:07:43to make impossible choices.
01:07:45I barely left his side
01:07:47during those nine months,
01:07:48running the business
01:07:49from home,
01:07:50delegating everything
01:07:51I could.
01:07:53My father called me
01:07:54weak for it.
01:07:56I did not care.
01:07:58River needed me
01:07:59and that was all
01:08:00that mattered.
01:08:01When our daughter
01:08:02was born
01:08:03after 18 hours of labor,
01:08:05tiny and perfect
01:08:06with blonde hair
01:08:08like her father
01:08:08and green eyes
01:08:09like mine,
01:08:10the nurse placed her
01:08:12in my arms
01:08:12and I understood
01:08:13for the first time
01:08:14what it meant
01:08:15to have something
01:08:15worth dying for.
01:08:18River was exhausted,
01:08:20pale and sweating,
01:08:22but when he looked
01:08:22at our daughter,
01:08:23his smile was radiant.
01:08:25We named her Hope.
01:08:26We named her
01:08:27because that was
01:08:28what River had given me
01:08:29when I thought
01:08:29I was incapable
01:08:30of feeling anything
01:08:31except rage
01:08:32and emptiness.
01:08:35Hope for a better future.
01:08:37Hope that monsters
01:08:38could become men.
01:08:40Hope that love
01:08:42was real
01:08:42and worth fighting for.
01:08:45Hope that our daughter
01:08:46would grow up
01:08:47in a world
01:08:47where she never knew
01:08:48hunger or fear
01:08:49or the feeling
01:08:50of being owned.
01:08:52The first few months
01:08:53were chaos.
01:08:54Hope cried constantly
01:08:56and neither of us
01:08:58knew what we were doing.
01:09:00River moved
01:09:01through the exhaustion
01:09:02with quiet determination,
01:09:04feeding her
01:09:05every two hours,
01:09:06changing diapers,
01:09:08singing soft lullabies
01:09:09in the middle
01:09:10of the night.
01:09:11I helped
01:09:12wherever I could,
01:09:13learning to hold
01:09:14her properly,
01:09:15to warm bottles,
01:09:17to understand
01:09:18the different types
01:09:18of cries.
01:09:20My reputation
01:09:21in the criminal underworld
01:09:23took a hit
01:09:23when word got out
01:09:24that Kieran Volkov
01:09:26was changing diapers
01:09:27and wearing spit-up
01:09:28on his expensive suits.
01:09:31I did not care
01:09:32about that either.
01:09:33We raised her together,
01:09:35teaching her to be strong
01:09:37and kind and brave.
01:09:38River quit his non-profit work
01:09:40to stay home with her
01:09:41during the early years,
01:09:42though he continued
01:09:43consulting remotely.
01:09:44I restructured
01:09:46my business meetings
01:09:47around her nap schedule
01:09:48and learned
01:09:49to conduct negotiations
01:09:50with a baby carrier
01:09:51strapped to my chest.
01:09:53Hope's first word
01:09:54was not Mama or Dada,
01:09:55but a garbled version
01:09:56of River's name
01:09:57that made him
01:09:58cry happy tears.
01:10:00Her first steps
01:10:01were taken in my office,
01:10:03toddling between River
01:10:04and me
01:10:04while my security team
01:10:06watched in awkward silence.
01:10:08By the time she was three,
01:10:10she had both of us
01:10:11wrapped around
01:10:11her tiny finger.
01:10:13River's past
01:10:14became a story
01:10:15we told her
01:10:16when she was old enough
01:10:17to understand,
01:10:18edited
01:10:19for a child's ears.
01:10:22About the Omega
01:10:23who survived
01:10:24impossible odds
01:10:25and found love.
01:10:27About the Alpha
01:10:28who learned that strength
01:10:29was not always
01:10:30about violence,
01:10:31but sometimes
01:10:32about gentleness.
01:10:34About the Band-Aid
01:10:35that changed everything
01:10:36because sometimes
01:10:37the smallest acts
01:10:38of kindness
01:10:39lead to the biggest
01:10:41transformations.
01:10:41she grew up
01:10:43knowing she was
01:10:43loved fiercely,
01:10:45protected completely,
01:10:46and wanted more
01:10:47than anything
01:10:48in the world.
01:10:49She attended
01:10:50the best schools,
01:10:51had everything
01:10:51she could need,
01:10:52but River made sure
01:10:54she also understood
01:10:55the value
01:10:55of helping others,
01:10:57of using privilege
01:10:58to lift people up
01:10:59rather than push them down.
01:11:02When she asked
01:11:03why I kept
01:11:03a framed Band-Aid
01:11:04photo on my desk,
01:11:05I told her the truth,
01:11:06because three days
01:11:08of not washing my hand
01:11:09led me directly
01:11:11to your father,
01:11:12and your father
01:11:13led me to you,
01:11:14and you are the best
01:11:16thing I have ever done.
01:11:17River and I
01:11:18grew old together.
01:11:20We watched our daughter
01:11:21grow up,
01:11:22fall in love,
01:11:23build her own life.
01:11:25We saw the city
01:11:26change around us,
01:11:28new buildings
01:11:28rising
01:11:29where old ones fell.
01:11:30We weathered storms
01:11:32and celebrated victories,
01:11:34and through it all,
01:11:36we never forgot
01:11:37where we started,
01:11:38in an emergency room,
01:11:40with blood and pain
01:11:42and the desperate hope
01:11:43that someone,
01:11:44somewhere,
01:11:44cared enough to help.
01:11:46I cared.
01:11:48I still care.
01:11:49I will always care.
01:11:52Because River is my forever,
01:11:54and I am his.
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