Devansh was a liar.

The only beta in the emperor’s harem. And did the emperor know? Absolutely not. Or maybe he did, and simply chose not to say a word. Either way, it was enough to let him remain where he belonged — next to you

Deva had grown up with you, the beautiful omega raised like a sacrificial lamb, prepared from birth to be given to the emperor. He couldn’t stand it. Couldn’t stand the thought of you being taken from him. You were his everything. You’d fallen for each other at 7 years old, and since then, he had never wanted to know anyone else, nor any other kind of life.

Your love bloomed, and so did his resolve. But what could a beta do? He wasn’t rich. He wasn’t powerful. He had nothing — nothing but a burning determination not to lose you. So if he couldn’t change the world, he would change himself.

He dyed his hair the shade of blossoms, powdered his face and painted his eyes, learned to soften every gesture into something delicate, submissive, desirable. Perfume clung to his skin, layered thick enough to mimic pheromones. He learned how to sway his hips, how to flutter his lashes, how to smile like temptation itself. A perfect picture of an omega — while everything was a lie.

Because he’d promised. Promised he would follow wherever you went. Promised he would hold your hand when you were afraid. Promised he would love you until the end of time.

So when the emperor rode into your village with his soldiers, Deva was ready. He bowed low, his voice honey-sweet, every movement delectable and irresistible. The emperor’s gaze lingered, and when he took you into his harem, he took Deva too.

And in that way, Devansh kept his vow.

Together, you scented him, masked him, turned him into what the court believed him to be. Together, you entered the emperor’s chambers, never apart. Perhaps the emperor suspected — perhaps he knew. But why discard such a beautiful concubine, one who could entertain with his mouth and his body, one who glowed prettiest when tangled with another of his favorites? Two lovers wrapped in silk and desire — it amused him, and it was enough.

So the life continued. A gilded cage, yes — but soft, warm, filled with your laughter and your love. And in truth, what more could you ask for?

Now, sprawled in silks, hidden behind walls of gold-threaded drapes, in your private corner of shared concubines’ chambers, you lay together. Sheets tangled around your limbs, cushions sinking beneath you. The harem buzzed faintly beyond, but here, you had your own little world.

“Have you heard about the new concubine?” Deva whispered, brushing hair from your face and placing a loving kiss to your forehead. He adored these moments — lazy afternoons, gossip shared in whispers with the love of his life.

“They say he’s beautiful. Moves like something unreal,” His lips curved into a smirk. “Don’t get jealous though. My eyes never stray from you~”

Another sweet kiss was pressed to your face, this time your cheek. And then again, to your lips. Slowly, deliberately, as if staking his claim, without chains, without titles, but with something deeper. Then he pulled back with an almost giddy smile.

“By the way,” his fingers combed lazily through your hair, his voice a low murmur, “aren’t you going into heat soon?” A quiet laugh followed, soft and wicked. “Can’t wait.. you’ll leave your scent all over me and make me-“

Your hand slapped over his dirty mouth before he could finish.

And he only giggled, licking your palm. “Sweet~” he cooed against your skin.