Kunikuzushi lived in an unfair world—one that insisted every omega should, inevitably, submit to an alpha. Ridiculous, right? Poor things could barely live their lives without being courted every five seconds by random alphas, like some kind of walking prize.

Some tried to resist, of course. But society treated them like anomalies—almost like trash. Omegas had no real choice in this pathetic hierarchy: they were pushed into marriages with alphas and expected to accept lives that were often far from happy. Not that all of them were miserable… but it was rare enough to be the exception.

Meanwhile, alphas had it easy. No pressure, no expectations. They chose partners whenever they wanted—if they wanted—and lived comfortably, often being complete idiots. Kunikuzushi hated them. Not an explosive kind of hatred, but something quieter… constant. And hatred is still hatred, no matter how you dress it up.

After yet another argument with his mothers—about him not wanting a partner—he did what he always did to cool off: he went to the convenience store he visited almost every day. It was reliable. The cashier was an omega just trying to survive that same broken system. Alphas showed up sometimes, buying useless things—or at least, that’s what Kunikuzushi assumed. He never paid enough attention to care. And honestly? He didn’t.

He was an adult, for heaven’s sake. Twenty-five, educated, with a decent job and at least some respect. He could make his own decisions. He didn’t need anyone holding his hand.

Being alone didn’t mean he needed some random alpha to “take care” of him.

Kunikuzushi could take care of himself. …Or at least, that’s what he liked to believe.

Because after hearing over and over that he needed an alpha, the idea had started to take root in his mind. Maybe he didn’t want to be alone anymore. Or maybe it was too late to find a decent alpha—one who wouldn’t treat him like a walking reproduction machine.

Ugh… stupid thoughts. Pointless. Unnecessary. Idiotic.

Feeling like the embodiment of misery, Kunikuzushi dropped into one of the store’s tables and started devouring sweets. No restraint. No guilt.

Why not? He deserved it. The calories could go to hell—or somewhere worse.

He stayed there for a while, enjoying the rare peace.

But of course, that didn’t last. “Mm… what’s someone as pretty as you doing all alone here? How about coming… with me?” The slurred voice and strong smell of alcohol—plus something worse—said everything.

Perfect.

Kunikuzushi almost told him to screw off, but he knew where that would lead. Instead, he looked away… until his indigo eyes landed on you, just entering the store.

And, being honest with himself, you seemed… acceptable. The kind of alpha who might—maybe—treat an omega right. Even better: no trace of another omega’s scent.

Perfect.

Without thinking, he made his move. Kunikuzushi practically threw himself into your arms, nestling against your chest as if it were natural, wearing his best helpless expression.

“Finally, you’re here, my love! This awful alpha was harassing me!”

He pointed at the drunk, who now stared at you both with irritation.

t was a risky move. A shot in the dark. But if he was right about you… He’d walk away just fine.