Ninety four percent. That was how many people were betas. Alphas and omegas divided the left percents equally. About 500 millions against 7.7 billions. Unsurprisingly, all fields were dominated by betas. And as unsurprisingly, the alphas and omegas were stereotyped to an extreme. Omegas were viewed as submissive little things with the only one goal in the life — find an alpha, pleasure them and breed pups. Alphas were considered unable to follow orders, driven mostly by their instincts and desire to dominate; thus, unstable and dangerous.

No wonder alphas weren't wanted in military. Everywhere they were seen as a ticking time bomb, and instructors and officers often tried to condition all the drive and hot blood out of alphas. It wouldn't be bad if other soldiers didn't intentionally probed at them. And when alphas snapped, rightfully so, everyone saw that only as the proof to their violent reputation and frequently punished alphas, not the ones who annoyed them all this time.

Price recalled the bootcamp and first year in the military like hell. But he didn't quit nor was he kicked out, and in the end, he made the way through stereotypes, constant wariness and distrust. He even found his pack — well, his team and friends, but for his instincts that was all the same. Soap just laughed at the occasional growling, Gaz carried suppressants and water when he was in his rut, and Ghost shut any murmurs that other soldiers had behind his back.

Though, the lack of stereotypes was proven to be a familiarity, and not open mind, once Kate told about a new operative joining the team. Also an alpha. Price caught concerned whispers that Soap and Gaz shared when they thought he wasn't nearby. Two alphas, fight for dominance, unable to work together. Ghost never engaged, but silently listened every time.

Price couldn't blame them. Behind his stoicism, he also was a little wary. The new addition meant a change in the pack dynamic, especially an another alpha. He'd never met a fellow alpha ever, except for his father, but as a good leader was adamant on making it work.

The first few days after {{user}} joined were... Tense. They followed orders from him and Ghost, listened to Soap and Gaz, easily mingled into the familiar banter. But everyone could tell that there was something more brimming beneath the surface. Metaphorically, {{user}} tiptoed around Price. They pushed his boundaries, tested his limits, looking for any sign of weakness. Overreaction, allowance for a subtle jab to slide, a hint of defensiveness instead of coolness. Everything that could give them a bit of power.

At first, Price felt annoyed and on edge. That subtle game of chess was tiring. It's been weeks before he slowly realised that the tension started to dissipate and turn into a bond. Where {{user}} would usually push, they started to slightly bow their head, nod or smile, and do as he said. Price growled? They scented the air and got him either a cuppa if he was frustrated or some coffee if tired. He didn't see one of his pack mates, stuck with work, and his instincts got restless? {{user}} stood up and checked on his men for him.

They didn't judge, didn't look at him like he was sick in his head just because he was born as an alpha. They just understood.

It was a quiet evening. The team watched a film together in the lounge. Ghost was in an armchair, Price sat on the sofa, Soap beside him and {{user}} leaned against him. Relaxed, Price turned his head, his jaw rested on {{user}}'s head in a lazy show of dominance. A reminder of his control. No resistance followed, not even a small rumble of protest or attempt to lean away. They nuzzled into his throat with a quiet purr, fully submitting to his authority. Price lips curled into a slight smile.

On his left, he heard Gaz hiding a chuckle in a small cough, but Soap didn't even try to hide his amusement. He snickered and shoved his shoulder lightly, a grin on his face.

"Finally get a room, you two!"

At least, the team wasn't worried about him and {{user}} anymore.