Age 9: Helping Hands
George can feel the sweat running down his neck as he stands in the middle of the playground. Mulch underneath his shoes and sun beating down on each strand of his hair.
Everything is dark. Hands covering his eyes, his surroundings are hidden away. But that doesn’t matter. George knows this playground by heart. He knows the creak of the swings, the rustle of the nearby trees, the metal clangs of the monkey bars and the squeals coming from the slides. George knows all of it. Dream and George have been coming to the playground since they could walk. It’s home in a way.
George clears his throat.
“One.”
His voice seems to echo over the layer of background chatter. George pauses. Senses sharpening. Listening for the patter of feet. Faint giggles accompanied by wheezing laughter.
“Two.”
George’s nose twitches scenting the air around him. Searching for the tinge of faint pine.
“Three.”
George flicks through each play structure in his mind. The swings? No too obvious. The monkey bars? Well no point in that really. Maybe the slides?
“Four.”
Maybe he tried to climb one of the trees?
“Five.”
George bites his lip in worry. The last time he tried to climb a tree it was to free their kite. A kite that was a gift from his sister.
“Six.”
George remembers nervously standing at the base of the tree watching him stick his tongue out as he reached from branch to branch.
“Seven.”
It had been going great. He was able to grab the string and free the kite. George had been ecstatic.
“Eight.”
But in the excitement he’d lost his grip. Flailing down, knocking into branch after branch with the kite in tow. George had been terrified when his body hit the ground.
“Nine.”
That had been one long day. He insisted he was fine but George knew better. When they went home and told his parents they found out he had a twisted ankle.
“Ten.”
It’s been a couple weeks since and he has yet to climb a tree. George really hopes he isn’t stupid enough to try it again just to win some stupid game.
“Eleven.”
Almost to fifteen. Then he can look. Then he can search for….
A small poke pushes into George’s shoulder. George frowns at the sensation nearly taking his hands off his face. That had been someone right? George furrows his eyebrows trying to recall the sensation.
He doesn’t have to think for long.
A moment later the poking sensation is back. Instead of his left shoulder it’s now traveled to his chest. George frowns. Seriously why does someone have to bother him when he’s trying to play?
George’s hands fly off his face the moment the poke returns. At first his vision swims a bit. The beaming sunshine illuminating the colorful blues and reds of the playground is a sharp difference from the darkness of the back of George’s eyelids. George blinks repeatedly trying to focus.
The person in front of him seems to be patient waiting for George to recover.
George opens his mouth prepared to tell the person to leave him alone. That is until his vision comes into focus. Blond hair, tan freckled skin, piercing green eyes, and a beaming smile. The trickle of pine is all George needs to know to confirm his suspicion.
The spark of aggression melts away as George tilts his head staring at his best friend.
“....Dream?”
Dream’s eyes light up upon hearing his name. He bounces on the heels of his feet back and forth in place. His hands are hidden behind his back. Hm strange.
Before Dream can respond it hits George. His eyes widen, a flicker of agitation shines in them. He pouts pointing a finger accusingly in Dream’s direction, “Dream! You’re supposed to be hiding!”
Dream freezes. He falters, mouth opened wide. Face going from that of a puzzled expression to shock to a hint of guilt. Dream’s mouth closes as he stares at the ground.
George crosses his arms impatiently. He really wanted to try and find Dream. Prove that he could win this time.
Dream’s gaze leaves the ground to meet George’s eyes. A small sheepish smile paints along Dream’s face.
George huffs internally, arms tightening against each other. But truly, any anger he originally had is fading away into nothingness.
Dream shifts his weight, “Sorry George…”
He trails off clearly searching for the best way to apologize and explain so George won’t be mad at him. Dream hates when George is mad at him. It’s just...he forgot! He was thinking of George anyway…
Dream’s nervousness fades as he remembers just exactly why he stopped George’s counting. His hands tighten behind his back holding onto his prize.
The previous excitement grows to life steadily. Dream feels a smile naturally seep its way onto his face, “But I found a present for you!”
Just as he hoped George’s eyes widen. Now entirely entranced in curiosity. In what Dream could possibly have for him.
Dream thrusts his hands in front of George, freeing them from behind his back. He presents his gift with all the confidence he can muster, “Tada!”
The stem of the flower is a little bent from how harshly Dream had been gripping it but the dainty blue purplish petals are unharmed. A faint dusting of pollen rests against them.
George shuffles closer to get a better look at the flower. Dream moves forward to oblige. They both stare at it for a while. A small bit of Dream starts to feel nervous the longer George just stares at it. Maybe he shouldn’t have showed George...maybe he should have hid like he was supposed to…
“It’s really pretty.”
Dream’s head whips up from where it had started to droop. His eyes lazer focus onto George. George who is smiling at him. A small smile but Dream knows George. A small smile from George means Dream did a good job. George is happy with his present.
Dream’s gaze flicks back to the flower in his hand, “I know right!”
George nods quietly. Dream fidgets. He kicks his foot gently against the ground disturbing the mulch and kicking up a thin layer of dirt, “It’s for you, so here.”
Dream nudges the flower at George. It takes a moment but eventually a small pale hand wraps around its stem gently, mindful of the flower’s condition.
For some reason Dream feels relieved as George takes it from him. George looks up again to meet him, the small smile still present, “Thanks Dream.”
Dream internally cheers. He did a good job, “You’re welcome Georgie!”
George twiddles with the stem twirling the flower back and forth, “Where should I put it? It might get crushed in my pocket…”
Dream purses his lip. He stares so intensely at the flower one might think it has personally offended him. Well, he kinda forgot about this part.
Dream snaps his fingers, “What about your hair?”
George’s free hand comes up to pat the side of his head feeling along his hair. Well, seems like a good suggestion, “Mmm okay.”
Dream watches George carefully nestle the stem of the flower behind his ear so it’s tucked into his hair.
George pats it in place to secure it, “You think it’ll stay?”
Dream taps his chin taking the question into deep consideration cause this is George. He wants everything to be perfect for George. Finally, he nods, “Yep.”
The moment is peaceful. A happy little world Dream and George have created blocking out everyone around them. It’s something they’ve always managed to do. Which is why Dream blames it when he catches the yells and footsteps a little too late. The huffing and jeers echoing in the air filter in slowly. Too late, too slow. Before he knows it a blur of orange passes him. A blur of orange heading straight for George.
Adrenaline pumps through Dream’s veins. Before he knows what he’s doing he’s somehow made it in front of George. Dream fixes his feet to stand firm. The blur of oranga knocks into him full force. Dream winces from the impact but manages to hold his ground. George is clinging to his shoulders behind him peeking over too see the commotion.
The blur of orange turns into a person. A person with a bright orange shirt, basketball shorts, thick raven hair, and wild frantic panicked eyes. They stumble back from colliding with Dream. Their legs are wobbly, feet crisscrossing this way and that. Dream’s eyes narrow and George’s widen in alarm as the person hits the dirt falling on his tailbone.
The boy takes a deep breath. Hands scrabbling at the mulch as if surprised to find himself amongst it. Dream huffs, hands placed on his hips. He doesn’t know this boy, he doesn’t know why he was running, but Dream doesn’t care. He almost hurt George!
Dream’s pine scent takes on a sour yet threatening tone. It makes the boy raise his head to finally acknowledge the pair of friends.
Dream’s not amused, on full defense mode, “Watch where you’re going! You can’t just run like that,” he scolds, “you almost hit George!”
Unsure by the situation and uncomfortable of the stranger George doesn’t mind staying behind Dream opting to simply peek over his shoulder.
The boy blinks, a small frown painting his face. He looks like he’s about to apologize. Yet the moment is cut short.
Several more footsteps in the distance make all three boys divert their attention. Three boys are heading directly to them. Dream takes in every one of them. They’re pretty tall. Probably older than him and George.
A whimpering sound comes from the ground. The boy who’d fallen is subconsciously hugging himself tighty. Tension in his body heightened while he stares at the approaching group.
A swirl of uneasiness comes to life in Dream’s chest. This can’t be good.
He was right. When they catch up to them they immediately hone in on the boy on the ground. Their smiles are harsh and malicious. Eyes twinkling with twisted joy.
“Still think you can run away from us?”
The two others are quick to back up who Dream guesses is the leader. Their faces are painted with sneers directed at the boy on the ground,
“Fork over the money asshole.”
“Yeah! We know you stole it!”
Dream and George stay frozen, racing to take in the unraveling interaction.
Annoyance rolls off the boy on the ground in waves. It’s thickly mirrored in his scent, “I never took your stupid money!”
The biggest guy tsks stepping closer, “Someone has to pay for it.” His fists flex open and closed in warning.
The boy on the ground flinches. Dream can’t stand by and watch this and based on how tightly George is clutching onto him he doesn’t think he can either.
Time for them to stop ignoring him, “Hey!”
Dream’s proud how steady his voice comes out. The group of boys glance over at him. Noticing him for the first time.
The leader quirks a brow entirely unimpressed, “What do you want loser?”
George mumbles under his breath, “He’s not a loser.” It gives Dream the courage to go on. He stands firm, unwavering, “Leave him alone.”
The boy on the ground shakes his head at Dream but Dream ignores him. The bullies look at each other questioningly. Coming to a consensus the leader meets Dream head on, the grin back on his face, “Why should I?” He looks back and forth between Dream and the boy, he licks his lip, “You wanna get your ass kicked too?”
His lackies burst out in laughter eager to oblige.
A growl builds in Dream’s throat. He really doesn’t want to bring attention to George but he needs to do this. George seems to understand as Dream walks away from him going to meet the boy on the ground. The boy stares at him in a mixture of amazement and horror. Dream winces noticing the scratches on his knees and bruises littering his arms. Dream out stretches his hand, reaching for him. It’s as if time freezes. Everyone waits anxiously. And then. And then a faint smile twitches on the boy’s face. His arm is a bit shaky but his hand links onto Dream’s. A victorious smile forms on Dream’s face as he yanks the boy to his feet.
It’s short lived. George’s voice cuts through the air panic lacing it, “Dream!”
Dream turns in time to see a fist heading straight for his jaw. There’s no time to do anything. Pain blossoms along Dream’s skin. It aches. He can hear two identical gasps, one next to him, the other in George’s direction. Dream rights himself, eyes meeting the group of boys laughing at him. He raises his fists in the air and charges.
They clash. Quickly the other boy joins Dream’s side. Fists fly as grunts fill the air. Punch after punch reigns down on them. Dream manages to land a couple hits but it’s not enough. His body aches. He has no idea how long the fight goes on but at some point he finds himself breathing heavily on the ground, the other boy in a similar state right next to him. Blood dribbles down Dream’s chin from his now split lip.
The leader’s breath is slightly labored yet his eyes gleam with exhilaration clearly enjoying beating them up. Dream hates people like him. People that gain happiness from hurting others.
And then. And then the worst thing happens. The group looks away from Dream and the boy. In the direction of George.
George. Dream’s heartbeat quickens drenched in fear.
The leader wipes a hand across his face, “Looks like the pipsqueak is all that’s left.”
Dream prays that George will listen to him yet the determination and anger seeping off George makes himself seriously doubt it, “George run!”
George spares Dream a minimal glance before redirecting his hatred towards the bullies.
His fists tighten at his sides. It amuses them.
Devious mocking smirks still at work, “What are you gonna do shorty? You weak-“
He doesn’t get to finish. Dream’s breath quickens and the boy next to him watches enamored.
George moves quick as light. Rushing forward his smaller body can move more fluidly and fast than the older boys. On top of that it seems none of them expected George to actually charge them.
Even with George heading full force the bully underestimates him. And boy is that a big mistake. George is one fluid machine. He raises his own foot to brutally come down to stomp on the leader’s foot eliciting a gasp of pain. George doesn’t ease up. With the same leg he thrusts his knee forward colliding directly with the other’s crotch. The boy doubles over from the pain. George takes the opportunity to raise his hand in the air, nails scratching along the boy’s eyes. George’s strawberry scent is sour and overwhelming, choking. As he scratches the other boy he lets out an entirely animalistic growl full throttle. The leader screams in pain cursing out. His friends look at each other entirely confused. George glares at them snapping his teeth. They take off sprinting away from the playground.
George shoves the now powerless leader, “Go away!”
He raises his eyes. Eyes filled with pure unadulterated fear. He doesn’t need to be told twice. Whimpers fill the air as he limps taking off in the direction of the other boys.
George huffs, clapping his hands together as if to dust off their germs, foot stomping against the ground in lingering irritation, a deep frown painted on his face.
Everything in that moment is George. George. George who Dream has to protect no matter what. George who is so much shorter than him, so much smaller. George saved him. George saved both of them. The words slip through Dream’s lips like a prayer, “Woah.”
The boy behind him echoes the words drenched in amazement. Instantly Dream twists his body around to get a look at the boy. His eyes are twinkling at George as if George is his hero, his entire world. An ugly unknown feeling lights to life in Dream’s chest. He doesn’t know what it is but….but George is Dream’s hero. He’s Dream’s world.
Apprehension consumes Dream. He stares the other boy down. His gaze is so intense it makes the boy squirm under it. Dream whispers under his breath so George won’t hear. George might not understand, “You can’t have him.”
The boy stares at him as if he’s insane, “What?”
Dream grasps at the ground gripping onto the mounds of mulch, “He’s my best friend.”
Clarification finally shines in the boy’s eyes. Yet his face is still painted with unease, “Um yeah, okay.”
It’s night and day as a smile twitches at the corner of Dream’s lips. Good, now that that’s taken care of…
Dream hoists himself off the ground rushing over to check on George at lightning speed. He makes it to George in record time searching every inch of his skin, “George are you okay!”
George’s anger fades as his attention is pulled to Dream. A bit of pride grows in George’s chest knowing he just scared off and beat up older kids. His smile is a tad sheepish as he assures Dream, “I’m okay.”
Dream’s not quickly convinced but eventually seems to accept it. His worry switches to pride. George just stood up to a group of bullies that beat Dream up. George had the courage to do what’s right and stand up for Dream and the boy. And he made the leader whimper. Absolutely won.
Dream beams pulling George into a tight hug, “I am so so proud of you Georgie! You were amazing! You saved us!”
An intense blush engulfs George’s face at the praise. Nonetheless he hesitantly wraps his arms around Dream to return the hug.
The hug is reassuring. After all that had been a little scary…
The sounds of footsteps cause George to lift his head. He makes eye contact with the boy. Gratefulness and astonishment comes off him in waves. He rubs the back of his neck with his hand nervously stumbling over his words a bit, “Thank you so much. You’re, you’re amazing.”
Dream doesn’t turn around, hold tightening on George protectively. George smiles earnestly. He helped someone. Maybe...maybe they can be friends.
George musters the most warm smile he can, “What’s your name?”
The boy flushes still trying to catch his breath and process the event, “Sapnap, it’s Sapnap.”
George hums, “You okay?”
Sapnap blinks, “Um.”
George whispers to Dream, “Come on Dreamy lets go. We have to help him.”
Dream groans, “Have to?”
George snorts, “Yes.”
Reluctantly Dream releases George from the hug. George smiles thankfully immediately grabbing onto Dream’s hand. It seems to calm Dream.
George tugs Dream’s hand as they walk over to Sapnap. George looks him over noticing the scratches and bruises littering his skin. He juts his head in the direction of the playground’s exit, “Let’s go see my Mom. She can help with your cuts and bruises.”
Sapnap pauses for just a moment. And then. And then he’s at their side. Tears billow along his lashes yet a smile shines brightly, “Thanks.”
It’s the beginning. The beginning of something special.
Age 12: My friends are….
Life is good. Life is good with his two idiots. His two idiot friends that have all stuck with each other through thick and thin. Defending each other with a determination and passion unparalleled. George never could have imagined how one day at the playground could change his life so much but he’s never been so grateful. He knows Dream returns the sentiment. They both never expected to find such a great friend in such a terrible way.
And now here they are. Sitting on the steps of the library enjoying ice cream cones from the local truck easing away the pain of the continuous harsh Florida sun. It would be great. It would be great if Sapnap and Dream would stop obsessing over their secondary gender. It makes George squirm with deep unease as he simply listens to the conversation not engaging. As if Dream thrusting the signs on him wasn’t enough now Sapnap is too.
The steady height growth, the sharp canine teeth protruding from their gums, the sharper tang that has taken on their scents. It’s all signs, all signs of a developing alpha.
George is tempted to hang his head in anguish. If his mother and sister could see him now they’d certainly disapprove. Sure they’ve come to trust Dream. George nibbles at his lip ignoring the ice cream melting in a stream down his hand as he focuses on Dream’s bright laugh as his sharp teeth gleam in the sunlight. They’ve been doing that a lot lately.
Everyone expects Dream to be an alpha but… George might feel guilty assuming but now that Sapnap is exhibiting signs similar to Dream it’s undeniable. Everyone assumed Sapnap is going to be a beta. His scent has never been particularly strong and he’s rather short in stature. Yet here he is, boasting and shoving Dream back and forth as he pokes at his newly sharp teeth announcing he’s going to be the best of the best.
Sapnap’s declaration cuts into George’s stream of thoughts, “Just you wait Dream! One day I’ll be taller than you.”
Dream nearly chokes on his ice cream spluttering as he pulls away. He smacks his chest while grinning, “Sapnap I know you’ve always been a little crazy but now you’re absolutely insane.”
Sapnap gasps in mock hurt. He points at Dream attempting to be threatening somehow with an ice cream cone. His eyes narrow, “You take that back bastard.”
Dream leans back staring at the sky as if deeply considering the notion. Then he grins meeting Sapnap’s annoyed expression, “No.”
They continue to squabble. George tries to center on their usual banter instead of the earlier near hour conversation about signs. But, but he can’t. George doesn’t know how to feel about Dream being an alpha. Dream is safety. Dream has always been by his side. Dream would never hurt him, never. But that doesn’t match the description of an alpha. No matter how hard George tries he can’t wrap his head around the concept. George’s hand tightens on the ice cream cone cracking it. Everyday he worries more and more. Worries how he hasn’t grown at all. Worries how his scent is a little too sweet. But there’s no way right? Fate wouldn't be so cruel. To make him an omega and the two people that mean the most to him in the world alphas. Right?
“George.”
George blinks head whipping around to the source of the noise. Dream is frowning at him in concern. Guilt floods Dream’s being. He knows how George responds to talk about alphas. He shouldn’t have gotten so carried away talking to Sapnap. Dream yearns to reach out and touch George but he refrains, “You okay?”
George sighs leaning back not pleased with the question. Curse Dream for reading him like a book. George lets out a non committal hum.
Thinking that George simply was annoyed at not being included in the conversation Sapnap makes to amend it, “Say George, you showing any signs?”
George’s heartbeat quickens as he fights down a flush. Stay cool. Calm collected. George shakes his head, “No I think I’m a late bloomer.”
Sapnap narrows his eyes leaning into George’s space to inspect for any changes in his features. George barely refrains from cringing away but he manages to not raise suspicion.
Sapnap hums and George prays to god or whatever the hell is out there that Sapnap won’t comment on how small he is. Won’t tease him in a way that George won’t be able to recover from.
Luckily Sapnap is his usual supportive goofy self, “Don’t worry. We’d never leave our little Georgie behind.”
George’s eye twitches at the word ‘little’ along with the teasing smirk on Sapnap’s face that suddenly is looking very punchable.
Dream coughs in attempt to save Sapnap’s ass from immediate doom. George nearly ignores him but ends up drawing his attention to Dream.
Dream smiles at him brightly emitting a subtle calming, reassuring scent, “Seriously don’t worry about it Georgie. We’ll love you no matter what you turn out to be. Omega, beta, alpha, doesn’t matter.”
George is quick to catch on how Dream lists omega first. He knows he shouldn’t be surprised. When they were nine Dream had announced that belief and damn if he hadn’t been confident. Still doesn’t mean he can’t be disgruntled about it. It comes out as a mumble, “Yeah yeah I know.”
Sapnap points at George’s mess of an ice cream, “Dude I repeat everything Dream just said but if you don’t hurry up and eat that I’m gonna hose you down.”
Dream bursts out in a wheezing bout of laughter. George narrows his eyes at first. And then there’s a shift. A mysterious smirk is painted on his face. Sapnap gulps not liking that change, “Wait..”
George doesn’t. Aiming directly at Sapnap’s face George chucks his ice cream full force. It smacks against Sapnap’s face with a loud squelching sound. George nods to himself, “Serves you right.”
Dream laughs so hard he’s in danger of bursting a lung.
Age 14: My Idiot Alphas
You know, maybe this wasn’t the best idea. Maybe it wasn’t a great idea to force two newly presented alphas in an incredibly tight space with them unable to control their scents yet. Maybe it was a mistake as the entire house reeks of alpha as no betas or omegas have ever occupied it for an extensive amount of time. Dream’s parents respectfully being two alphas.
So yeah, George’s head is spinning. His calculus homework completely forgotten as he desperately clasps a hand over his mouth and nose to block out their suffocating scent. George had just started to get used to how powerful Dream’s pine scent has become. Then a month later Sapnap threw him for a loop presenting as an alpha and choking him on the scent of campfire. Honestly it’s incredibly amusing how Sapnap’s scent soared in flames smelling identical to a raging bonfire. Quite fitting for a pyromaniac.
But currently it’s far from amusing. It’s like George has suddenly been teleported from Dream’s familiar comfortable bedroom to a random patch in the woods that creates an aura of oh you are so going to get murdered when the sun sets.
He wants to yell at them, scream how selfish they’re being. Yet he fears the moment he removes his hand he’ll be paralyzed to the floor. George has yet to present but this kind of environment, this scent overload, would bring any adolescent to their knees.
George is perched on Dream’s bed. Sapnap and Dream had been on the floor. Dream reviewing Sapnap’s overdue english essay pointing out areas that can be improved. George hadn’t been paying too much attention to the pair but maybe he should have. Cause apparently at some point Sapnap decided he was being demeaned, looked down on, he exploded.
They both are now standing up rigidly. Chests puffed out and teeth gritting together in snarls. It’s clear Sapnap is more furious than Dream. Dream’s scent has a hint of confusion where Sapnap’s has none. George’s head is swimming how to defuse the situation.
Sapnap growls loudly making George flinch, “You’re always trying to be the bigger man.”
Dream’s hands twitch at his side, irritation flowing off him, “What?”
Sapnap tenses throwing his hands in the air in exasperation, “Oh you know what I mean!”
Dream stands his ground showing no indication he’s processing what Sapnap is saying. George knows Dream. He knows that truly Dream is drowning in confusion. A seed of guilt forms in his chest. This is at least slightly his fault. Dream has always been overwhelmingly protective of him. And now that Sapnap’s an alpha, a possible threat, well it’s created some tension. An innate response to prove Dream can take on the fight. That Dream can overpower Sapnap. Clearly Sapnap has picked up on it and apparently had enough but George is positive he doesn’t know why it’s occurring.
Sapnap stalks forward just slightly, he snaps, “You’re always trying to prove you're the better alpha!”
Dream opens his mouth to respond then pauses momentarily. George can see the gears turning in Dream’s brain. Dream is smart. George is confident in that so hopefully Dream can defuse this.
Unfortunately Dream isn’t thinking like Dream. He’s thinking like an alpha, “It’s not my fault you’re jealous.”
If George had a freehand he’d smack his forehead in disappointment.
Not so surprisingly, Sapnap doesn’t like that response, “Don’t be so full of yourself golden boy.”
Dream tenses at the nickname. It’s meant in a mocking tone. One to put him down. It hurts coming from Sapnap’s mouth. Still Dream refuses to back down from the fight. His instincts won’t allow it.
Dream’s glare intensifies tenfold, “Maybe if you tried harder you’d be a better alpha.”
Sapnap stumbles back, eyes shining with hurt, “Excuse me?”
Dream stalks forward, “Do better Sapnap. Prove yourself.”
George tenses following Sapnap’s fists raise up near his face. Oh hell no. This has gone too far. It’s not like George is an omega. He can handle his two idiot alphas. He has to before they rip each other apart for no good reason.
George rips his hands away shouting as fast as he can in order to not deeply inhale the air with the suffocating scents swirling around, “Will both of you shut up!”
George knows they forgot his presence. He can see it in the way Dream’s eyes widen in shock to then soften and melt into regret seeking forgiveness. Sapnap breathes heavily taking in George’s form like a drug to calm his nerves. If George can do that, can be that for them, he doesn’t mind.
George pushes himself off the bed stomping towards them angrily. Like a mantra he repeats don’t breathe don’t breathe.
George points between the two of them with such force and accentuation it makes both boys flinch, “You’ve been friends since we were kids.”
Sapnap and Dream look at each other unsure what’s about to happen. They don’t need to speak to acknowledge they both fucked up. When George gets like this, there’s no stopping him. Dream finds it...whatever...he doesn’t….blush and his heart doesn’t flutter. Absolutely not. Meanwhile every time Sapnap is prepared to request last rights and tell his parents he loves them.
George moves his hands to rest against his hips, “Friends way before you presented as alphas so,”
with scary authority George stomps his way to Dream. Dream who is staring so widely at George it appears concerning, entirely entranced. George frowns, he raises a hand off his hip. Dream watches it like a hawk. Then, George flicks Dream on the forehead. Dream blinks. Once. Twice. A slight pain dances along his skin. The urge to beg for forgiveness is overwhelming.
George stomps his way over to Sapnap while speaking, “stop acting like alphas and start acting like the Dream and Sapnap I know.”
Sapnap yelps as George flicks him on the forehead as well. His hands come up to rub the spot as Sapnap pitifully pouts at George. George rolls his eyes not feeling an ounce of sympathy,
Sapnap is the first to speak, remorse filling his voice, “Shit, you’re right.”
George stares at him unimpressed crossing his arms, “Of course I am.”
Neither Sapnap nor Dream miss the faint smirk painted along George’s face.
Silence ensues. Both Sapnap and George look over at Dream. Dream is frozen in spot staring ahead blankly. Sapnap whispers a quiet what the fuck. George looks down at his fingers wondering if he somehow flicked Dream so hard on the head he caused damage.
Just as George finishes inspecting his hand he raises his eyes to be met with the image of Dream rushing forwards making a beeline for George. George squeaks as Dream yanks George into his chest holding onto George so tight George feels as if his organs will explode, “I’m so so sorry George.”
George squirms. The apology is great and all but Dream still reeks of aggressive alpha which is quite unpleasant. George squawks as Dream hugs him tighter nuzzling his face in George's hair breathing in his faint strawberry scent. A part of George wants to reprimand him. However the other part wins out. He’ll give this to Dream for a little bit.
Still holding onto George Dream directs his gaze to meet Sapnaps eyes. He’s fully genuine, “I’m so sorry man, I didn’t mean any of it.”
Sapnap studies him. Studies how he’s clutching onto George. Studies how the first thing he did was apologize to George instead of Sapnap. And as George squeaks again it finally clicks. Dream’s behavior suddenly makes sense. Dream will never admit it. In fact Sapnap knows Dream fights it on the daily. Refuses to be possessive of George. Protective but not possessive. He trusts George. Even so it will take Dream time to calm his instincts to not flare up. Sapnap laughs out a slight broken chuckle at his stupidity. He rubs at the back of his neck, “It’s fine. I know.”
The confirmation that the crisis has now been averted is George’s cue to stop coddling Dream. He beats softly at Dream’s chest as much as his pinned arms allow, “Let me go idiot.”
Dream gives George one last squeeze before pulling away giving George space. But he doesn’t fully pull away, arms still resting against George. The smile on Dream’s face is one of absolute adornment, “What would I do without you Georgie?”
George clicks his tongue, “Die.”
Sapnap chokes on a laugh begging to escape from his throat. Dream turns around to glare at him mildly irritated. George raises an eyebrow directing his attention to Sapnap’s shaking amused form, “And so would you Sap.”
Sapnap gapes indignantly.
It’s enough to finally dissipate the tension. Dream hates to let go of George but he knows his place. Dream walks across the room to Sapnap. He smiles offering his hand forward, “Bros?”
Sapnap smiles back earnestly grabbing onto Dream’s hand only to tug him into a hug, “Bros.”
George sighs dramatically. If this begins to become a regular occurence he’s gonna kill them. Mark his words. Desecrated, owned, begging for mercy.
Age 16: He’s my friend too
Finally the last bell rings and it is sanctuary. He’s going on week two of being a freshly presented omega aka Dream acting as George’s own personal guard dog. They’d already has a small conversation about Dream’s excessiveness. George huffs to himself as he recalls Dream’s reaction to Sapnap’s attempt to talk to George.
George knows Dream is struggling with his instincts. He knows how hard Dream is trying to fight it. And dammit he can’t deny that a deep buried down part of him may or may not love it. So their compromise isn’t so bad. Being wrapped in Dream’s scent for the entire school day to George’s dismay, helps him focus, calms his nerves, and just blankets him in safety and overall happiness. It’s a lot to process. George still isn’t sure how to feel about it. He has an idea though. An idea to what it all means but he's not ready to admit it to himself. Not just yet. He’s still trying to get ahold of this whole being an omega thing.
Even with their compromise Dream can still he a bit much at times which leads to George currently shoving Dream out of the way to get to the bathrooms in peace. Dream whines after him, “What if something happens?”
George really really needs to fucking pee. He glances between the restrooms. They’re split into the secondary genders. Alpha and betas together while the omegas are separate. George doubts the betas enjoy sharing a bathroom with alphas. And well….the omega bathroom is essentially a girl’s bathroom. Male omegas are considered freaks of nature. Extremely rare. The issue has already been covered with the nurse. She informed him the omega student body, which in general is overall small, has no qualms about him using the bathroom.
Even so George has spent the majority of his life using the alpha and beta bathroom treating himself as a beta. So he hasn’t quite switched over to the omega bathroom yet. But dammit if that’s what it takes so George can finally pee in peace he’ll take it.
George expresses this in rapid speech, “Fine fine I’ll use the omega bathroom okay?”
Dream perks up, “Really?”
George resists the urge to smack Dream’s chest, “Yes so relax.” He trails off for a moment, “Wait for me outside?”
Dream’s eyes widen and he nods so rapidly it looks painful, “Of course.”
George waves a hand over his shoulder on the way to the bathroom, “Be good!”
Dream rolls his eyes in response.
Dream makes sure to not wait too close to the omega bathroom. The last thing he needs is to come off as a creep. So he waits in the more general hallway. He pulls out his phone switching between random apps while periodically glancing at the bathroom door waiting for George to emerge.
His process is interrupted by the familiar scent of campfire. Dream lifts his head to face his friend. Usually Sapnap is already on the bus right now. Slight confusion swirls in Dream’s chest but he pushes it away.
Dream falters noticing the quick purposeful stride Sapnap makes heading his way. Dream clicks his phone off slipping it into his jean pocket. Sapnap isn’t smiling even when he’s a mere five feet from Dream. He’s looking Dream up and down like he’s sizing Dream up. It’s a bit unnerving.
Sapnap crosses his arms, rolling his shoulders, as he bites at the inside of his cheek. This has been something bothering him for a while. Something he wanted to talk about in person. However every single time he tries George is always there. They’re always together, George and Dream. So when Sapnap spotted Dream standing alone in the hallway he had to seize the opportunity.
He wasn’t exactly prepared to have this conversation today but he forces himself to push the words out, “Just because George is an omega doesn’t change anything.”
Dream blinks at Sapnap in utter confusion making Sapnap want to flick Dream or jab him like George does at times.
Sapnap soldiers on, “You’ve been acting ridiculous Dream. Even for you.”
Dream winces. He knows he’s been a bit much. He knows it’s affected George since they talked about it but he wasn’t aware, didn’t think about how it affected everyone else. It makes guilt crash over him.
Sapnap sighs, “Haven’t you thought about this beforehand? What you were gonna do? How to handle it? Both of us knew George would be an omega.”
It’s a harsh truth that Sapnap would never repeat in front of George.
Dream tenses ready to argue, to refute the claim Sapnap doesn’t let him, driving in the final nail, “You wanted George to be an omega”.
Dream sulks, head drooping down to face the floor, gaze locked onto the hallways tiles in shame, “I know and I feel awful about it. I just wanna keep my promise Sapnap. I wanna protect him.”
Sapnap clicks his tongue rolling the words around in his head. It’s true. However there’s more to it. And Sapnap will make Dream see that.
“Are you sure that’s the only reason you wanna protect him?”
The moment Dream processes the question and instead blush cascades over his face. Embarrassment acting as betrayal.
Sapnap snickers at the reaction. He’s spent so long third wheeling he can’t find it in himself to feel guilty, “I’m pretty sure everyone except George can tell man.”
Dream swallows harshly, his tongue feeling heavy in his mouth. He knows how weak, how unbelievable it sounds , “Dunno what you’re talking about.”
Sapnap sighs closing his eyes to lift a hand to rub at them. Patience Sapnap Patience. He has to get his point across, “I’m not the one you need to be afraid of Dream. I won’t touch your omega. I wanna protect George too.”
Dream chokes on air, “He’s not my omega.”
Sapnap raises an eyebrow, “You seriously believe that?”
Dream stands stunned in silence. He craves for those words to be true no matter how much he denies it.
Sapnap clasps his shoulder bidding him farewell, “I’ll see you tomorrow Dream.”
Sapnap makes it a couple yards down the hallway before he stops. Dream turns to face him anticipating more of the speech.
Sapnap coughs loudly, “This is more of a formality than anything cause I know you wouldn’t.”
Dream tilts his head in confusion waiting for Sapnap to continue
Sapnap’s canines flash as he grins down at Dream as if he’s going to eat him alive, “If you hurt George I’ll bury you ten feet under”
Dream cracks a grin. Some people might be offended by a threat like that. But for Dream it brings him peace knowing someone cares about George that much. Will be there for him no matter what, “Won’t happen but… you better.”
Age 18: Friends Always
Life is amazing. Life is complete. With George in his arms. George’s scent wrapping around him like a warm hug. George’s plush soft lips against his. George’s nails raking along his back. Dream will never get enough of George. Never get enough of this ethereal being that has graced him with the honor and absolute pleasure of dating him. Of letting Dream love him with everything he has. And in return loving him just as strongly. God Dream is in love with George.
He certainly doesn’t mind how the hallway George scolded him in nonstop when they were sixteen has turned into one where they sneak away. To simply hold each other at times or instead, like right now, kiss passionately melting into one another.
Each moment like this is magical with George. Unfortunately a certain loveable asshole has to interrupt them.
Sapnap lets out a squeal of alarm once he’s snuck up to the couple. If Sapnap thought he was a third wheel before oh boy did he have a big thing coming. Once Dream and George started dating it was a relief. A long awaited sigh. See George and Dream are two people that you know are meant for each other. Simply watching them interact for less than five minutes will confirm that.
So yeah Sapnap’s allowed to let out his mild frustration through endlessly teasing them. After all what kind of friend would he be if he didn’t poke fun at them?
Sapnap raises his voice dramatically along with throwing his arms to cover his face, “Are you two serious? Oh my god my eyes!”
He peeks one eye open to see their reaction, a grin hiding beneath his arms.
George is still up against the wall blushing such a deep red it could make a rose jealous. Dream is also quite flushed but there’s a noticable difference between them. George is entirely flustered and embarrassed. He’s still adjusting to physical affection...in this way. Therefore being caught in the act is a bit jarring. Dream on the other hand has a grin painted on his face screaming of pride. He’e ecstatic, proud to be holding George in such an intimate way.
George pouts poking at Dream to let him down, “Did you have to sneak up on us?”
Dream sets George back to the floor. A laugh slips through Sapnap’s lip now that the height difference is on display. But he won’t mention that to George right now. No thank you, he’d like to keep his knee caps. Sapnap lowers his arms shrugging nonchalantly, “Maybe you shouldn’t be eating face in the middle of the hallway.”
George stares Sapnap down. Against his wishes Sapnap fidgets under his gaze. Luckily he is quickly spared. George redirects his gaze to Dream.
Dream knows that looks, the slight downward pull of George’s lips not quite a frown but not quite a pout. The way his eyebrows are furrowed with his eyes shining with want. With expectations. He wants Dream to back him up. It screams, ‘fix this.’
Naturally Dream can’t say no. Dream sidles his way around so he’s behind George. He pulls George against his chest while wrapping his arms around George's waist. His head nestles gently against George’s head as he not so subtly scents him, “You know this is our hallway Sap.”
Dream grins mischievously, hugging George closer, “You should have seen it coming.”
Sapnap stares at them, pursing his lips, “You both are the worst.”
George smiles warmly. He taps Dream’s arms requesting to be let go. Dream grunts but listens. George walks forward with purpose. Sapnap’s eyes widen as he’s confused to no end. Why is George getting so close to him?
There’s no way this is real life. There’s no way this is real as small arms attempt to fully wrap around Sapnap’s back. No way is George resting his head against Sapnap’s chest as he holds Sapnap in a hug. Sapnap takes a deep breath. This is real, it’s the undeniable strawberry scent that screams George. George is hugging him.
Sapnap could cry. In fact he does. And he’s not ashamed of it.
George smiles into the hug, “Thanks for dealing with us anyway.”
Sapnap lets out a shaky sigh hugging George even tighter, embracing him as if it’s the last chance he’ll get, “Always.”
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