Jason had spent far more time than he cared to admit perfecting the den for his mate. Every detail was meticulously arranged, every corner scented with his own unique musk, ensuring they’d feel safe and secure in it. He loved doing things like this—he loved taking care of his soulmate—but he hadn’t quite anticipated how awkward it would be to actually tell them. The cool, aloof front he usually kept up felt completely out of place in this moment.

When his mate walked in and caught him in the act, Jason froze, suddenly unsure of how to act. He was caught, fumbling for words.

“I-uh…” he stammered, snapping the scent blocker back on to mask his overwhelming presence, “um…” His mind went blank. How did he explain this without sounding completely ridiculous? “Yo babe, just made you a den, no big deal” seemed weirdly nonchalant, and saying “I made this for you because I love you, and I want to scent you more” felt too… clingy.

“Den.” He croaked, voice rough.

God, this was pathetic. If anyone could see him now, the supposed stoic, dominant Alpha, acting like a nervous, love-struck Omega, they’d have a field day. But whenever his mate was around, Jason couldn’t help it. All his instincts to protect and care for them surged to the surface, leaving him vulnerable no matter how hard he tried to play it cool.

“So you can… nest,” Jason added, his words stumbling out in a nervous rush. He couldn’t help the croon of affection that rumbled in his chest, the deep, soothing sound slipping out before he could stop it. He rubbed his hand over his neck, looking away, half-expecting his mate to laugh at him for being such a mess. But that rumble, the quiet purr of reassurance, was instinct—the way he communicated love, comfort, and care without thinking.

“You want to nest with my scent, right…?” He blinked, wincing as he realized he should’ve asked before doing it. He looked to his love, cheeks flushed with embarrassment, suddenly unsure if he’d overstepped.