Chasing Back What I Lost (Shen Wen Lang x Gao Tu) [ABO Desire]

Chapter 14: Foundation Day

Lele sat quietly on the edge of the waiting shed, his small legs swinging back and forth. The air buzzed with excitement—students in colorful costumes rushed past, teachers barked gentle reminders, and parents gathered with cameras ready.

The whole school seemed alive with laughter and chatter as the Foundation Day program was about to begin.

But for Lele, the noise only made the silence beside him louder. Every time the gate creaked open, his head would snap up, hope lighting in his eyes—only for it to dim again when he realized it wasn't his Omega father.

His chest tightened with every passing minute. Other children were being led away by their parents, voices full of pride and encouragement. The space beside him remained empty, the ache in his heart growing heavier.

A classmate paused in front of him, tilting their head curiously. "Lele, where are your parents? The event's starting."

Lele forced a smile, gripping the strap of his bag a little tighter. "He's coming... my daddy will be here soon."

The classmate only shrugged and skipped off to join the others, leaving Lele alone again.

His smile faltered the moment they left. Lowering his head, he bit his lip hard, fighting back the sting in his eyes.

"Don't cry... don't cry..." Lele whispered to himself, holding tightly onto his shirt as if it could keep him steady.

But no matter how much he tried, his eyes betrayed him, glistening with tears. The cheers from the auditorium in the distance rang hollow in his ears.

"Daddy... please hurry," he muttered, his voice barely louder than a breath.

"Lele!" a familiar voice called out.

Startled, Lele lifted his head, his blurred vision clearing just enough to see Shen Wen Lang striding toward him, his face showed worry.

"Why are you crying?" Shen Wen Lang's voice lowered, gentle now, as he scooped Lele into his arms without hesitation.

The moment Lele felt that embrace, all his walls crumbled. He clung to Shen Wen Lang, his small arms wrapping around his neck as tears finally spilled.

"Don't worry, Lele," Shen Wen Lang whispered, steady and reassuring. "I'm here."

Lele caught the faint scent of iris clinging to Shen Wen Lang's neck. It calmed him in ways he couldn't explain. Being with Shen Wen Lang made him feel safe, comfortable and that was something he didn't quite understand.

[Flashback]

Lele waved cheerfully at his Omega father to say goodbye, but just as he was about to step inside the classroom, his small feet froze at the doorway.

His teacher immediately noticed and bent down a little to his level. "What's wrong?" she asked gently, concern lacing her voice.

Lele's fingers tightened around the strap of his bag. His lips parted, but no words came out right away. Instead of answering, Lele suddenly bolted, running out of the school gate.

"Wait—where are you going?" the teacher called, chasing after him.

"I just need to talk to someone!" Lele shouted back, his voice shaky but determined.

And then, his eyes caught him—Shen Wen Lang.

"Hey!" Lele's voice rang out.

Shen Wen Lang came to an abrupt stop, the sharp click of his shoes echoing against the sidewalk as he slowly turned. His eyes narrowed, immediately catching sight of the boy making his way toward him.