"Minister, I can't close the Onyx investigation." The Police General's voice was low and measured over the phone.
"The Prime Minister's Office is monitoring it closely, and the public is watching. With the search warrant already issued, the investigators have to follow the evidence wherever it leads."
The Minister was silent for a moment.
"I understand. Keep me informed."
"I will, Minister."
The call ended.
Over the next several days, investigators worked through every lead from the Recovery Serum launch. They reviewed the hotel footage, checked access records, and interviewed witnesses.
The hospital recording remained their biggest problem. They still couldn't establish where it had been made, who the patient was, or whether the voice belonged to anyone at Onyx.
Then an anonymous report brought them another lead.
An Onyx hospital employee named Mina Bennett had disappeared.
Investigators verified her employment, confirmed that she had missed several shifts, checked her residence and phone, and found that she had been assigned to the ICU around the period under investigation.
Nothing yet connected Mina's disappearance to the recording. Even so, her ICU assignment and sudden absence were enough to justify a closer look.
Investigators obtained a search warrant covering both the hospital and the pharmaceutical and research building at the Onyx Biomedical complex. The warrant authorized them to examine relevant medical records, access logs, security footage, and research documents connected to the investigation.
Onyx responded with its top-tier legal team and continued to deny every allegation of unauthorized human experimentation.
Sebastian had already been questioned about the launch. This time, investigators had more to work with: further forensic analysis of the recording and a preliminary voice comparison.
With his personal counsel present, Sebastian denied recognizing the hospital shown in the recording or the patient and refused to confirm that the voice belonged to him. His lawyer intervened when investigators attempted to treat the preliminary comparison as established identification.
Sebastian also firmly denied that Onyx conducted unauthorized human experimentation, maintaining that the company's medical and research programs operated under established procedures.
After several hours, he left with his counsel while the rest of Onyx's legal team remained at the station.
Maximillian was questioned later that afternoon.
He arrived with his own senior counsel and his right-hand man.
The investigators questioned him about the recording, the unidentified patient, the possibility that the footage came from Onyx, and the allegations of unauthorized experimentation. They also raised Mina Bennett's disappearance.
Maximillian denied recognizing the hospital shown in the recording or the patient, rejected the allegations against Onyx, and stated that he had no personal knowledge of Mina's disappearance.
His S-Class Alpha presence filled the room, though he made no attempt to intimidate the investigators. He kept his voice even and his answers precise, while his right-hand man stood silently behind him.
Maximillian gave the investigators nothing they could use.
After several hours, he left with his counsel and right-hand man.
The investigators still had no direct evidence connecting Onyx to the recording or Mina's disappearance.
The warrant had given them access to the hospital and its records, but nothing immediately changed the case.
The underground laboratory remained unknown. It was absent from the building plans submitted to the authorities, and no ordinary Onyx employee knew it existed.
For now, investigators had an unidentified recording, a missing employee, and a company that continued to deny every allegation.
The investigation remained open.
And Onyx was still hiding something.
By evening, the investigation had yielded no breakthrough. At the Mercier Estate, Maximillian had already begun deciding how much the authorities would be allowed to find.
Inside Maximillian's office, the curtains were drawn against the dark sky. He sat in a deep leather chair near the center of the room, while Kael occupied the sofa across from him. Maximillian's right-hand man stood a few steps behind his chair, silent and watchful.
Kael had brought the latest information from the investigation, but Maximillian already understood where things stood.
"The warrant covers both the hospital and the pharmaceutical and research building," Kael said, opening his folder. "They'll examine the medical records, security footage, and research documents connected to the investigation."
Maximillian barely glanced at the folder. "Let them."
"Everything that could directly expose Onyx has already been moved," Maximillian said. "The research records and Sovereign specimens are no longer inside the facility."
Kael nodded. "They won't find the underground lab."
"It was never part of the official blueprints," Maximillian said. "They can search every legitimate laboratory in that building. They still won't find what they don't know exists."
Kael closed the folder.
Maximillian leaned back. "It will keep them looking in the wrong place."
Kael gave a quiet nod.
Maximillian's expression hardened slightly.
"While they search, we continue operating. No one panics, no one makes unnecessary statements, and no one gives the investigators anything beyond what they are entitled to see."
"Understood."
The office door opened before Maximillian could continue.
Vyn stepped inside, his hair falling loosely across his forehead. He crossed the room and dropped onto the sofa beside Kael.
Kael looked up at him with a faint smile. "You're already back to your schedule?"
"Mostly."
Kael studied his brother for a moment before asking, "Any pheromone reaction since the launch?"
Vyn glanced at his father, the dry smile still on his face. "Hmm... nothing serious. Maybe it's just another disorder from one of his experiments."
Maximillian's gaze remained fixed on Vyn. The faint tightening of his jaw was the only indication that the remark had landed.
"Remember, I've had plenty of practice being his test subject," Vyn continued.
The bitterness in Vyn's voice lingered in the room.
Maximillian reached for the glass of whiskey on his desk and took a slow sip, his composure never slipping.
Kael couldn't help the slight amusement in his eyes at his brother's boldness, though his attention quickly shifted to their father, watching closely for any reaction.
Vyn seemed completely comfortable with the silence. After a moment, he leaned forward, resting his forearms against his knees as he looked directly at his father.
"There's something I came here to discuss."
Maximillian watched him calmly.
"I'll cooperate. With the investigation, with Onyx, whatever comes next. I'll help you keep things under control."
Maximillian studied him for a moment, the slightest curve touching one corner of his mouth.
"Interesting. The cocky boy finally learned how to negotiate."
Vyn's expression hardened, but he didn't rise to the provocation.
"There's one condition."
Maximillian's eyes narrowed slightly, a knowing look settling across his face.
"Of course there is. You wouldn't be my son if you came here offering something without wanting something in return."
Vyn held his gaze.
"Elio stays out of this. No experiments. No harvesting. No interference with his career or his group. You leave him alone, and I'll give you the cooperation you need."
Kael added quietly, "That would benefit Onyx. Having Vyn cooperate with the company right now will make things considerably easier."
Maximillian's gaze shifted briefly toward Kael before returning to Vyn. He leaned back, considering the offer.
"An S-Class Omega as your chosen mate is hardly something I would throw away."
His tone remained matter-of-fact.
"His genetics alone make him valuable to this family. If you intend to make him your mate, I have no reason to interfere."
His gaze settled on Vyn again. "I'll agree to your condition."
Maximillian had agreed not to interfere with Elio's career or subject him to experiments. That didn't mean he intended to stop watching him.
Vyn's shoulders eased slightly.
"Okay, that's settled then."
Maximillian gave a faint nod before reaching for the glass on his desk.
"There is one thing I expect in return."
Vyn waited.
"I want to meet him. Invite him over for dinner."
A brief flicker of surprise crossed Vyn's face before it disappeared.
"Okay, I'll ask him."
Maximillian's mouth curved faintly.
"I want to meet this little Omega you're so obsessed with."
Vyn gave him an unimpressed look.
"He's not going to like being called that."
"I wasn't asking what he would like."
Despite himself, Vyn let out a quiet breath that was almost a laugh.
"I'll bring him."
"Good."
Vyn rose from the sofa and adjusted the cuff of his sleeve. He took a step toward the door before stopping and looking back.
"If you break our agreement, I won't sit back."
Maximillian met his eyes.
"I don't break my word."
Vyn studied him for a moment, then gave a small nod and walked out.
The door closed behind him.
For a few moments, Maximillian remained still, his gaze fixed on the closed door. Then he turned toward Kael.
"You knew about this?"
Kael met his father's eyes. "I knew Vyn cared about Elio. I didn't know he'd be willing to bargain with you for him."
Maximillian leaned back, one hand resting against the arm of his chair. The tension that had been sitting in his shoulders since the launch seemed to ease slightly.
"This crisis is temporary," he said. "Onyx has survived worse. I built this company to withstand pressure, and a government investigation will not erase everything I've built."
"When this is over," Maximillian continued, "my sons will carry this family forward."
"You still expect me to succeed you."
"You are my successor."
Maximillian looked at him with the certainty of someone who had already decided the future long ago.
"And Vyn carries the family name. The two of you will protect everything I built."
Kael lowered his eyes for a moment before giving the answer his father expected.
"Of course."
Maximillian settled back into his chair, satisfied.
He still believed the empire he had built would pass safely into his sons' hands.
He had no idea how much Kael had already done to bring it down.
———
The press conference room inside the Empire Onyx Entertainment building was packed.
Cameras lined the front of the stage, television crews crowded the aisles, and reporters filled every available seat. Speculation had been building for days, and the room was already buzzing before anyone stepped behind the microphone.
At the center of the stage stood Vivian.
She wore a tailored off-white suit over a silk blouse, her hair swept neatly away from her face. As an Alpha and the CEO of Empire Onyx Entertainment, she carried herself with quiet authority, her expression composed as she surveyed the room. Only the slight tension around her eyes betrayed the pressure the company was under.
Behind her stood AXIOM and ELYS.
The members had been briefed separately before entering the room. They knew what they could say, what they could not confirm, and when to let Vivian or the company speak for them.
For the first time in months, both groups were standing together again.
Vyn stood with AXIOM, carrying himself with the effortless confidence that always made him difficult to approach. Axis stood beside him, calm and watchful, while Dane wore the easy smile he had always given the cameras, though there was still a faint melancholy beneath it.
Lee and Reon stood with them, both visibly relieved to have the entire group together again. Reon kept his usual easy expression, while Lee watched the room more carefully, already anticipating the questions that would come.
Across the stage, Elio stood with ELYS.
His familiar warmth and easy smile had returned, giving him the same radiant presence that had earned him the nickname Angel of Onyx.
Lucas looked at him with quiet relief, while Sixth's face had brightened considerably now that the group's full lineup stood together again.
Yohan's reaction was quieter. His gaze settled on Elio and lingered.
There was relief in his eyes at seeing him standing there again, but beneath it was something more fragile, something that had never quite faded.
Elio didn't notice. He was too busy exchanging quiet words with Lucas and Sixth, trying to settle into the strange feeling of standing in front of the public again.
Vyn caught the look Yohan gave Elio. It lasted only a moment, but he recognized it. His jaw tightened, and he turned away before anyone noticed.
His eyes shifted to Elio.
Elio caught him looking and gave him a warm, bright smile, softening the tension that had settled in Vyn's chest.
The sight of both groups together immediately sent whispers through the room.
Vivian had made that possible. A few days earlier, Axis and Dane had returned to her office after months away, leaving her with an explanation she hadn't expected.
Vivian looked up from her desk when the door opened.
For a moment, surprise flickered across her face.
"Well... I wasn't expecting to see you two today."
She rose from her chair and gestured toward the seating area.
"Come in. Sit down."
Axis and Dane exchanged a brief glance before walking over to the sofa. Vivian joined them a moment later, taking the armchair opposite them.
"We're really sorry, Ms. Vie," Dane said.
Axis lowered his gaze. "We should've told you."
Vivian studied them for a moment.
"Do you have any idea how much trouble your disappearance caused?"
Axis and Dane looked at her.
"Your schedules had to be rearranged, brand campaigns were cancelled, and we had to pull you from several appearances and performances at the last minute. Your sponsors kept asking when you were coming back, and I had no explanation to give them."
Dane's expression tightened.
"We're sorry, Ms. Vie."
"I know." Vivian sighed, though her expression remained firm. "Now tell me what happened."
Axis glanced at Dane.
Dane gave him a small, nervous nod.
"We didn't really know how to explain it."
Vivian watched them carefully.
"Then start somewhere."
Axis let out a quiet breath.
"We fell in love..."
Vivian's eyes widened slightly, and for a moment, she looked from Axis to Dane as if making sure she had heard him correctly.
"You two?"
Dane's ears turned slightly red as he rubbed the back of his neck, suddenly looking a little shy.
"Yeah..."
She stared at them for another moment, still visibly surprised.
"I honestly didn't see that coming."
"We thought you'd be angry," Dane admitted.
"I am." Vivian folded her arms. "But not because you're together. Two Alphas falling in love isn't exactly shocking anymore."
Both idols looked up.
"What I'm angry about is that you disappeared for months without telling anyone. Do you have any idea how worried everyone was?"
Dane lowered his gaze. "We didn't know what would happen if people found out about us."
"And disappearing was supposed to make things better?"
Axis winced. "No. Looking back, it was a pretty stupid decision."
Vivian let out a tired sigh.
"You should have trusted me enough to tell me."
"We wanted to," Dane said. "We just didn't know how."
For a moment, Vivian said nothing. Then she shook her head.
"Fine. We'll deal with the rest later. But no more disappearing without telling me."
Both men nodded.
"Yes, Ms. Vie."
It was a simple explanation, but it was exactly what Kael had intended. It gave Vivian a believable reason for their disappearance without connecting it to the harvesting or raising questions about what had really happened to them, especially Dane, who had returned without his scent and was no longer the same Alpha he had been before.
Now, with every camera pointed toward the stage, Vivian stepped toward the microphone.
The scandal surrounding Onyx Biomedical Solutions had begun spilling into Empire Onyx Entertainment. Rumors were spreading about whether the agency had known about the experiments and whether its artists had been involved.
Vivian wasn't going to wait for anyone else to decide how her agency should respond.
She brought AXIOM and ELYS back together and called the press conference.
She waited until the room settled.
"Thank you for coming today. I know there have been serious allegations surrounding Empire Onyx Entertainment and our artists, and I want to address them directly."
Cameras flashed.
"Some reports have suggested that our agency knowingly allowed its artists to be subjected to medical experiments, or that Empire Onyx Entertainment was involved in the activities currently under investigation at Onyx Biomedical Solutions."
Vivian's expression hardened.
"Let me be clear. Empire Onyx Entertainment has never authorized or participated in unauthorized medical experimentation involving our artists. We take their safety seriously, and we will cooperate with the authorities in establishing the facts."
Questions erupted across the room.
Vivian lifted one hand until the reporters gradually quieted.
"The investigation into Onyx Biomedical Solutions is being handled by the appropriate authorities. We will cooperate with any legitimate request concerning our artists."
A reporter stood.
"Then where have Axis and Dane been?"
Vivian turned slightly toward AXIOM.
"They took time away for personal reasons. They needed space away from the public eye, and we respected that. They're safe, they're back, and they're ready to return to their activities."
Another reporter called out.
"Are you saying they were never receiving treatment from Onyx Biomedical?"
"There is no basis for claiming that Empire Onyx Entertainment knowingly participated in or allowed unauthorized medical treatment of its artists."
The questions continued.
"What about Elio? Why did he disappear again?"
Vivian waited until the noise settled.
"Like anyone working in this industry, our artists go through difficult periods. Sometimes they need to step away and take time to recover before returning to the public eye. We respect their privacy as much as we respect their work."
Her gaze briefly moved toward the artists behind her.
Another reporter raised his hand.
"Then what happened to Vyn at the Recovery Serum launch? Was he experimented on?"
Vivian glanced briefly toward Vyn before answering.
"The circumstances surrounding that incident are still being investigated. We will not speculate about medical findings that have not been officially released."
She rested one hand against the podium.
The room gradually settled.
Vivian allowed the photographers another moment before continuing.
"And we have one more announcement."
Vivian's expression remained composed as she turned toward the screen behind her.
"To welcome our artists back, Empire Onyx Entertainment will hold a special concert featuring performers from across the agency."
A murmur immediately spread through the room.
One reporter raised his voice.
"Is a concert really appropriate while Onyx Biomedical is under investigation?"
Vivian met the reporter's gaze.
"Our artists are not responsible for allegations against another operation. The investigation will proceed, and so will our work."
The room quieted slightly.
A reporter called out.
"Are you worried the controversy surrounding Onyx Group will affect the concert?"
Vivian gave a measured smile.
"We're aware of the situation, but we won't allow speculation to determine the future of our artists. They've been away from the stage long enough, and they're ready to return."
The cameras erupted again as reporters raised their hands, each trying to get the next question.
Vivian waited for the room to settle before returning to the microphone.
"That concludes our announcement. We'll now take a few questions."
She offered the cameras a polite smile before stepping aside.
The floor immediately opened to questions.
"Are AXIOM working on a new album?"
"Will ELYS hold a concert after Elio's return?"
"Vyn, are you planning any solo activities?"
"Elio, are you preparing new music with ELYS?"
Then one reporter raised his voice above the others.
"Vyn, can we ask about the rumors surrounding you and the Minister's daughter?"
The room immediately grew louder.
"Was there really an arrangement between you and Anastasia?"
"Were you supposed to get married?"
Vyn remained composed, his expression barely changing as he faced the reporters.
"No. There was never any arrangement between us."
A few reporters exchanged surprised looks.
"So you were never engaged?"
"Never."
His answer was calm but firm, leaving no room for further speculation.
Elio looked at Vyn, the faintest smile touching his lips.
"Then what about Elio? Are the two of you working together again?"
Several cameras turned toward him.
"Will Vyn and Elio collaborate?"
"Can we expect to see you together on stage again?"
Vyn's gaze shifted across the room until it found Elio.
For a brief moment, their eyes met. Something warm flickered across Vyn's expression before he turned back toward the reporters.
"We've worked well together before," he said. "If the right opportunity comes along, I don't see why we wouldn't do it again."
The answer immediately drew another wave of camera flashes.
"So there's a chance?"
Vyn's mouth curved into a faint smile.
"You'll have to wait and see."
Another reporter called out.
"Elio, would you want to collaborate with Vyn again?"
Elio glanced at Vyn before facing the cameras.
"I think we'd make something good together."
The room erupted once more.
Vivian stepped forward with a small, knowing smile.
"All right, everyone. One question at a time."
The members answered what they could, while Vivian and the managers stepped in whenever a question crossed into territory they weren't prepared to discuss.
The press conference finally ended, and staff began clearing the room.
By the time the members gathered backstage, the cameras had been packed away and the tension had begun to lift. Their voices gradually filled the hallway as they fell back into the familiar rhythm of being together.
ELYS stayed together as they made their way down the hall, with AXIOM a few steps behind them.
Leia caught up with the group, her tablet already in hand.
"Everyone, stay close for now. We'll go over tomorrow's schedule once we're settled."
Sixth immediately turned toward her.
"Does that mean I can eat first?"
Leia raised an eyebrow. "You just ate."
"That was before the press conference. I'm hungry again."
Lucas chuckled. "You're always hungry."
"It's called having a healthy appetite."
Lucas shook his head, a small grin tugging at his mouth.
"You call eating every two hours healthy?"
"Oh, I call it survival."
Elio let out a soft laugh.
"I almost forgot how loud you guys are."
Sixth immediately draped an arm around Elio's shoulders and pulled him against his side, even though they were nearly the same height.
"Welcome back, bro. You're already getting worked to death."
Elio nudged him with his elbow.
"You haven't changed at all."
"Of course not."
Yohan had been quieter than the others and kept glancing toward Elio.
For weeks, he had sent messages that never received a reply. Now Elio was standing beside him again, smiling as if nothing had changed. Yohan wanted to believe everything was fine, but he still needed to hear it from Elio himself.
"Hey," Yohan said, moving a little closer.
Elio turned toward him. "Yeah?"
"How are you? We were worried about you."
The concern in his voice was unmistakable.
Elio's smile became more apologetic. "I'm okay. I didn't mean to make everyone worry."
Yohan gave him a reassuring smile. "It's okay. You're here now."
Elio nodded, and Yohan's shoulders finally relaxed.
Sixth leaned closer with a grin. "You two done being emotional?"
Yohan immediately elbowed him. "Shut up."
Sixth laughed. "I'm just glad he's back." He gave Yohan a knowing little look but wisely left it at that.
Elio shook his head, amused. "I forgot how much noise you make when you're all together."
"And you missed it," Sixth teased.
"Maybe a little."
Lucas chuckled. "Careful. He'll never let you forget you said that."
Sixth pointed at him. "Exactly."
A few steps behind them, Vyn walked with Reon, Joey, and Lee. He hadn't paid much attention to the conversation at first, but then he noticed the way Yohan kept looking at Elio.
The softness in Yohan's expression lasted only a moment, but Vyn caught it. His jaw tightened before he looked away, refusing to let the feeling show.
Reon, meanwhile, had been watching everyone reunite with a grin. "You know, I'm really happy about this."
Vyn glanced at him. "About what?"
"Everyone being back together. Axis and Dane are here, Elio's back, and we'll finally perform with the full lineup again."
Lee gave a quiet laugh. "Funny. A few days ago, you were desperate for a vacation."
Reon looked at him. "I changed my mind."
Vyn's mouth curved slightly. "Obviously."
Reon laughed and glanced toward Axis and Dane, who were a little farther behind them. He slowed down until he was walking between them again, then casually intertwined his arm with Dane's.
"Dane, you're going to have to take my side on something."
Dane looked down at their linked arms before giving him an amused smile. "Lee again?"
"Who else? He's been driving me crazy."
Lee heard his name and glanced over, completely unbothered by the accusation. "I was doing my job."
"You were stressing me out."
Dane laughed. "That sounds like Lee."
"See?" Reon grinned. "This is why I missed having you around."
Axis shook his head, laughing. "You just wanted someone to agree with you."
Reon gave him an unapologetic smile.
Dane looked at him with quiet amusement. "I'm sure you managed to survive without me."
"Barely," Reon replied, squeezing his arm. "I've got a lot to catch you up on."
Lee glanced over at them. "I can already tell."
Reon looked back at him with a grin. "And you're still making it worse."
Dane laughed. "Nothing's changed."
Lee's expression softened into a small smile. "It's good to have you both back."
"Yeah... good to be back," Axis replied.
Reon stayed between Axis and Dane, his arm still intertwined with Dane's as they continued down the hallway.
Vyn glanced toward them once before his attention returned to Elio. He looked comfortable now, laughing with Lucas and Sixth while Yohan stayed nearby.
Vyn had missed seeing him like that, but after everything they had been through, he wanted him for himself, even if only for a few minutes.
He caught Leia's attention as she walked past.
"Leia, can I steal Elio for a bit?"
Leia followed his gaze and gave him a knowing look. "Sure. Just don't disappear."
"We won't."
Joey, who had overheard them, gave Vyn a skeptical glance. "That sounds suspicious."
Vyn ignored him.
Leia turned toward Elio and called, "Elio, Vyn wants to talk to you."
Sixth immediately looked over, his grin returning. "Ooooh."
Elio rolled his eyes. "Sixth, don't start."
"I didn't say anything."
"You were about to."
Lucas snorted. "Just go before he makes this worse."
Elio laughed softly and finally walked toward Vyn.
Vyn reached for his wrist, his touch gentle and familiar.
Elio glanced down at his hand before looking up at him.
"Where are we going?"
Vyn only smiled and continued leading him forward.
Behind them, Yohan watched them leave. His expression dimmed for a moment before he turned away.
Sixth noticed, but for once, he kept his teasing to himself.
They slipped into one of the smaller practice rooms along the private training corridor. The room was dark, the lights still off, with only the faint glow from the hallway slipping beneath the door. The floor-to-ceiling mirror reflected just enough light to reveal the empty rehearsal space.
The moment the door clicked shut, Vyn wrapped both arms around Elio.
Elio let out a quiet laugh. "You really just wanted to get me alone, didn't you?"
Vyn rested his cheek against Elio's shoulder and kissed the skin just beneath his ear, breathing in his familiar scent. He tightened his arms around him, reluctant to let go.
"You have no idea how long I've been waiting to do this."
Elio smiled, though his eyes instinctively flicked toward the door.
"Vyn, there are reporters and staff everywhere. If someone comes looking for us..."
"I know." Vyn lifted his head, brushing another quick kiss against his cheek without loosening his arms. "I just wanted a few minutes with you. Is that really so bad?"
Elio glanced down at the arms still wrapped around his waist.
"Hmm. Coming from you? A little suspicious."
Vyn smiled. "What's that supposed to mean?"
"You're starting to act less like an Alpha and more like a dog..." Elio gave him an amused look. "You keep sniffing me every chance you get."
"Oh, can you blame me?"
"That is exactly the kind of answer I expected."
Vyn laughed quietly and pressed one last kiss to Elio's temple before loosening his hold. He gave Elio a small, almost pleading look.
Elio raised an eyebrow at him. "Oh God, you're so clingy."
"You make me this way."
"So much for your cold idol image."
Vyn smiled faintly, his gaze soft and affectionate.
"You're the only one who gets to see this side of me."
Something in Elio's expression changed. He leaned in and gave Vyn a quick peck on the lips.
Vyn went still for half a second, clearly caught off guard by the sudden affection.
When Elio pulled back, a teasing smile touched his lips.
"I like you better like this."
Vyn stared at him, his gaze lingering on Elio's mouth.
"You really shouldn't say things like that to me."
Elio raised an eyebrow. "Why?"
A slow, wicked smile appeared on Vyn's face.
"Because I'm actually a wolf, and you've already given me plenty of reasons to devour you. Right here. Right now."
Elio chuckled softly, shaking his head.
"Yeah? Good luck with that."
Before Elio could step away, Vyn caught him around the waist and drew him closer, backing him gently against the floor-to-ceiling mirror.
Elio's back met the cool glass.
Vyn leaned in and kissed him again, this time without hesitation.
Elio caught the front of Vyn's shirt and kissed him back just as eagerly. Their reflections moved together in the mirror behind them, surrounded by the empty practice room and the muffled sounds beyond the door.
Vyn's hand tightened at his waist as the kiss deepened. When he finally broke away, his lips brushed along Elio's jaw before lingering briefly at his throat.
Elio's hands dropped to Vyn's waistband. He undid the zipper and slipped one palm against Vyn's erection through the fabric.
Vyn let out a low gasp, his eyes darkening as he reached for Elio's shirt and quickly undid the first two buttons. He leaned in and pressed his lips to Elio's scent gland, breathing in his scent.
"Vyn..." Elio pushed him back just enough to catch his breath.
Vyn stopped immediately, searching his face before easing away.
Elio was breathing harder now, amusement still lingering in his eyes despite the flush on his skin.
"You really have no self-control, do you?"
Vyn gave a raspy laugh. "Not when it comes to you."
"That's what I was afraid of."
Vyn lowered his forehead against Elio's.
"You started it."
"I'm only teasing you."
"Exactly. And then you expected me to behave?"
Elio laughed. "Uhm... yes?"
"That was your mistake."
Elio shook his head, smiling despite himself.
"You're insatiable."
He reached down to zip Vyn's trousers back up, but Vyn caught his wrist, stopping him. Vyn guided Elio's palm right back flat against his hard cock through the fabric.
"Freaky," Elio muttered, giving Vyn's cock a firm squeeze before lowering his hand to zip his trousers back up. Only then did he finally pull away.
Vyn watched him through half-lidded eyes, his gaze drifting to Elio's lips before meeting his eyes again. For a moment, he looked as though he wanted to kiss him again, but instead, he leaned in and pressed one last kiss to Elio's forehead.
He finally stepped back and began fastening the loosened buttons of Elio's shirt, smoothing the fabric into place with a reluctance that was hard to hide.
Elio straightened his shirt and glanced toward the door.
"Come on. We really need to go back before someone notices us."
Vyn watched him for another second before giving in.
"Yeah. All right."
Elio gave him a suspicious look.
"That sounded almost too easy."
"I'm trying to behave."
"Try harder."
Vyn laughed softly as he reached for the door.
"Let's go," he said. "Anyway, I'll pick you up at six."
Elio paused beside him.
"How am I supposed to act in front of Maximillian?"
The warmth disappeared from his face the moment he said the name. His jaw tightened, and the softness in his eyes gave way to something colder, something Vyn recognized immediately.
Vyn's expression turned serious as well.
"Like the adorable angel everyone knows."
Elio looked at him for a moment.
"I just hope I can keep my temper around him."
Vyn reached for his hand and gave it a firm, reassuring squeeze.
"You will."
Elio looked down at their joined hands before meeting Vyn's eyes.
Vyn squeezed his hand once more, then opened the door and checked the hallway.
"I'll see you later."
"See you."
They stepped back into the hallway together. Whatever warmth had remained between them disappeared behind the familiar expressions they wore whenever reporters or staff were watching.
———
Vyn guided Elio through the entrance of the Mercier Estate, his hand resting lightly against Elio's back.
The polished marble floors gleamed beneath the chandeliers, and several Alpha guards stood along the hallway, their attention briefly following the two men as they passed.
So this is where the devil lives.
Elio kept his face smooth, burying the thought behind a polite, untroubled smile.
He had taken a high-grade inhibitor before arriving, masking his true Enigma scent beneath the familiar fragrance everyone expected from him: frozen mint and white lilies. Combined with the control he had developed during his hiatus, it was enough to keep his true classification concealed.
He couldn't afford to let even the slightest trace of his real scent escape tonight.
Inside the sitting room, Maximillian sat in a leather armchair, his right-hand man standing a few steps behind him. Kael occupied one sofa, while Sebastian and Vivian sat across from him.
Maximillian set down his glass and rose to greet them. His gaze settled on Vyn before moving to Elio.
"So, you're the young man my son has been so determined to protect."
Elio offered him a courteous smile. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Chairman. Thank you for inviting me."
Maximillian smiled and extended his hand.
"Welcome to my home."
Elio accepted the handshake, meeting his gaze without hesitation.
Maximillian studied him briefly. Elio's scent remained consistent with the Omega classification in his records. Whatever irregularities had prompted the security report, nothing in his pheromones offered an obvious explanation.
"Please, have a seat."
Vyn led Elio toward the sofa and sat beside him, giving Maximillian a brief nod. The gesture was courteous but distant, a formality he had agreed to maintain rather than a sign of reconciliation.
Kael turned toward Elio with a welcoming smile.
"It's good to finally have you here, Elio."
Elio smiled back before turning to the others.
"Good evening. Thank you for having me."
Sebastian returned his greeting with a courteous smile.
"Good evening, Elio. It's a pleasure to finally meet you."
Vivian smiled at him as everyone settled into their seats.
"I still can't believe you two actually ended up together."
Vyn glanced at her, a hint of amusement appearing in his otherwise composed expression.
"Auntie, you're the one who brought us together in the first place."
"Because someone had to rescue your career after that dressing-room incident," Vivian replied with a laugh. "I thought putting you two together for a project would be good for both of you. I didn't expect you to take such a liking to each other."
Elio smiled at her. "Then I suppose we owe you some thanks."
Vivian gave him a composed smile. "You can thank me by keeping the public on your side. The fans are already turning your pairing into a full-blown campaign. My PR team has enough on its plate without having to manage whatever the two of you decide to do next."
Vyn leaned back against the sofa, a faint smile tugging at his mouth.
"Sounds like they're doing a good job."
Vivian gave him a knowing look. "Of course you'd say that."
Elio laughed, while Kael lowered his gaze to hide his own smile. Sebastian watched the exchange with quiet interest.
Before Vivian could tease Vyn further, a housekeeper entered to announce that dinner was ready.
Maximillian rose. "Shall we?"
Everyone followed him into the dining room.
The table had been prepared beneath a warm chandelier, its polished surface reflecting the carefully arranged place settings.
Maximillian took the head seat, with Vyn and Elio seated together on one side. Kael, Sebastian, and Vivian took their places nearby, while Maximillian's right-hand man remained discreetly near the doorway.
Once the first course had been served, Vivian turned toward Elio.
"So, how does it feel to be back with ELYS?"
Elio's face brightened.
"Honestly, wonderful. I missed performing with them. Being back in the practice room with everyone feels like I've finally returned to where I belong."
Vivian smiled. "Good. You'll have plenty of chances to make up for lost time. With the company concert coming up, I want ELYS performing at its best."
Elio laughed. "I know. Lucas is probably already planning how to work us to death."
"Then I suggest you get used to the practice room again," Vivian replied, her smile turning knowing. "I expect a lot from all of you."
Maximillian, who had been listening to their exchange, finally spoke.
"I heard about your press conference, Vivian."
Vivian turned toward him, her expression composed.
"You made a rather important decision without informing me first."
She drew a breath to answer, but Maximillian continued before she could speak.
"Still, I understand why you acted. With the rumors spreading, Empire needed to respond before the damage grew worse."
His tone softened only slightly.
"You handled your responsibility as CEO. I won't fault you for that."
Vivian held his gaze, her posture straight and her expression unwavering.
"I wasn't going to let speculation jeopardize my artists' careers or the company they've worked so hard to build. I had to protect my people."
Sebastian glanced at Maximillian before giving a measured nod.
"Vivian acted quickly, and the press conference helped reassure the public that Empire remains operational. Given the circumstances, I believe it was the right decision."
Maximillian acknowledged him with a slight nod before turning his attention to Elio.
"Are you planning to resume your activities in full?"
"Yes, Chairman. I've missed performing with my members, and I'm ready to return."
"And you believe the recent controversy won't affect your career?"
Elio set down his glass.
"There will probably be questions, but I intend to focus on my work and let the investigation take its course."
Maximillian gave a measured nod, his confidence unwavering.
"Public attention is fleeting. Give it time, and this controversy will fade. Until then, focus on your career and leave the rest to us."
"I intend to," Elio replied politely.
Vyn remained largely silent, making no effort to engage his father beyond what was necessary. Most of his attention stayed on Elio, and beneath the table, his hand occasionally brushed against Elio's.
Maximillian noticed the quiet exchange.
"You seem comfortable around my son."
Elio glanced at Vyn, his expression softening.
"He makes it easy."
Vyn's fingers closed around Elio's hand beneath the table.
Maximillian regarded them for a moment before addressing Elio again.
"And what do you see in him?"
Vyn frowned slightly. "Must you turn dinner into an interview?"
"I asked Elio a question," Maximillian replied coolly. "I expect he can answer for himself."
Vyn's jaw tightened, but he held his tongue.
Elio gave Vyn's hand a brief squeeze before turning back to Maximillian.
"He can be difficult to understand sometimes," Elio said carefully. "But I know him well, and I know what matters to him. That's enough for me."
Maximillian studied him.
"You speak as though you know him very well."
"I do."
Vyn glanced at him, the tension in his expression easing for a moment.
Maximillian noticed.
"Given Vyn's condition, I would have expected him to keep his distance from Omegas," he remarked. "Yet he seems perfectly comfortable around you."
Elio blinked once before smiling brightly.
"Oh, I suppose I'm special."
Vyn let out a quiet laugh, his thumb brushing over Elio's knuckles beneath the table.
Maximillian's mouth curved faintly at the response. He had expected a more guarded answer, perhaps even discomfort at having his relationship questioned. Instead, Elio had answered with an ease that seemed entirely natural.
"Confidence suits you," Maximillian remarked.
"Thank you, Chairman."
Maximillian returned his attention to the meal, allowing the conversation to move on.
Elio's presence had remained consistent. Neither his demeanor nor the way his pheromones settled around him gave Maximillian any clear reason to question his secondary gender.
Still, the security report lingered in his thoughts. He had no intention of dismissing it just yet.
"Tell me, Elio. What do you want for your future?"
Elio considered the question.
"To keep doing what I love. To perform with my group, make music, and have a life outside of work."
"And Vyn?"
Vyn set down his cutlery and looked at his father.
"Is there a reason every question about Elio has to lead back to me?"
Maximillian gave him a cool glance.
"I'm trying to understand the future you intend to build together. Surely that is a reasonable question."
Vyn's expression remained guarded, but he said nothing more.
Elio turned toward him, his smile becoming more genuine before he looked back at Maximillian.
"He's part of that future. Very much so."
Beneath the table, Vyn's fingers tightened around his hand. He offered no further answer, but the affection in his eyes was difficult to hide when he looked at Elio.
Maximillian regarded them for a moment.
"If the two of you intend to choose each other as mates, I won't stand in your way. That decision belongs to both of you. An arrangement made under pressure would serve neither of you."
Vyn studied his father, wary of the sudden concession. "That's all I want," he said. "The choice should be ours."
"Then we understand each other."
The rest of dinner proceeded with polite conversation. Vivian occasionally steered the discussion toward safer subjects, while Kael and Sebastian joined in when necessary.
Elio remained warm and engaging, concealing his hatred beneath the same charm that had made him beloved by fans.
He kept his pheromones under control throughout the meal, allowing the inhibitor to do its work. Nothing in his scent betrayed the truth.
After dinner, everyone moved to the living room for a brief chat before the evening came to an end. Sebastian and Vivian eventually took their leave, followed by Kael, leaving Maximillian with Vyn and Elio for a few final words.
Maximillian turned toward Elio.
"I expect we'll have more opportunities to meet."
Elio met his gaze with a polite smile. "I'm sure we will, Chairman."
Vyn stood and offered Elio his hand. Elio accepted it, and together they made their way toward the estate's main entrance, where their car was parked.
Maximillian watched them disappear down the corridor before turning to his right-hand man.
"Tell me, do you believe he is truly an Omega?"
His right-hand man took a moment to consider his answer.
"From what I could sense, there was nothing particularly unusual about his pheromone presence, Chairman. It was consistent with his registered classification."
Maximillian's gaze lingered on the doorway.
"I want to be certain. Arrange an assessment and have his classification verified."
"Yes, Chairman."
Maximillian turned toward the windows, already considering what the results might reveal.
Meanwhile, Vyn drove through the quiet streets with Elio in the passenger seat. The city lights passed across the windshield as they headed away from the residential district.
Vyn glanced at him.
"Are you staying at my place tonight?"
"Not tonight. I need to talk to Aris about my medication and have him check a few things."
Vyn turned his attention back to the road.
"Is something wrong?"
"Nothing serious. I just want Aris to check that everything's still okay."
Vyn nodded. "All right. I'll take you to the clinic."
Elio turned toward him with a small smile. "You're not disappointed?"
"Of course I am. I was looking forward to having you to myself." Vyn shot him a sidelong glance. "But your medication comes first. We can spend time together another night."
Elio reached over and rested a hand on Vyn's thigh.
"I'll make it up to you."
Vyn's lips curved into a faint smile. "I'll hold you to that. Don't keep me waiting too long, okay?"
Elio gave his cheek a gentle pinch. "You're so demanding."
Vyn chuckled and turned his attention back to the road. He pulled up outside the building that housed both Aris's clinic and private unit.
Elio unfastened his seat belt, then leaned over to kiss him before getting out.
"I'll call you when I'm done."
"Do that. I'll be waiting. Love you."
Elio smiled. "Love you too. Drive safely."
He waved as Vyn drove off, remaining by the entrance until the car disappeared from sight.
Only then did Elio lower his hand. His gaze shifted toward the street, and the smile slowly faded from his face.
⸻
Later that night, the Mercier Estate had fallen quiet.
Maximillian sat on the edge of his bed, reviewing the latest reports from Onyx Biomedical Solutions. The investigation was underway, but he had no intention of letting it interfere with his plans.
He picked up his phone and called Sebastian.
"The handover to our Russian partners will proceed as scheduled," Maximillian said. "But you will no longer be handling it. My right-hand man will oversee the transfer personally."
"Understood, Chairman."
Maximillian rose and walked toward the window.
"The five Sovereign vials allocated for the transfer must leave the country without complications."
"Yes, Chairman."
He ended the call and stared into the darkness beyond the glass.
Onyx's pharmaceutical operations might be under scrutiny, but Sovereign would not be abandoned. He had spent years building the project, and he had no intention of letting an investigation bring it to an end.
A little while later, Maximillian's right-hand man was reviewing CCTV footage from the Recovery Serum launch and looking for any connection to the nurse's recording when his phone rang.
He answered immediately.
"Yes?"
His expression tightened as he listened, his fingers closing around the phone.
"An explosion?"
He rose from his chair.
"Secure the site immediately. Keep everyone away from the damaged sections and coordinate with the emergency teams. I want a full assessment as soon as possible. Report directly to me."
He listened for a few more seconds before ending the call.
For a moment, he stood motionless beside his desk, processing the information. Then he grabbed his jacket and headed straight for Maximillian's bedroom.
At the door, he knocked firmly.
"Chairman."
There was no response.
He knocked again, more urgently this time.
"Chairman, I need to speak with you. There's been an explosion at Onyx Biomedical."
A moment later, the door opened. Maximillian stood on the other side, his expression clouded with sleep and irritation.
"What the hell happened?"
"The pharmaceutical and research building has suffered a major explosion. The underground lab appears to have been destroyed as well. Several security personnel are injured. The hospital building is unaffected, and no fatalities have been reported so far."
Maximillian stared at him, the last traces of sleep vanishing from his face.
"An explosion?" he repeated sharply. "In the underground laboratory?"
"Yes, Chairman."
"Goddamn it." Maximillian's face grew stern as the implications sank in. "When did it happen?"
"Minutes ago. Fire crews are already on-site, and I've ordered the area secured."
Maximillian turned away, dragging a hand over his face. His jaw clenched, a muscle jumping near his cheek.
He faced his right-hand man again.
"Someone knew where to strike."
The man hesitated before answering.
"Chairman, I believe Northstar may be involved."
Maximillian's eyes narrowed.
"Find that bastard." His voice sharpened, his restraint beginning to fray. "I want their identity, their connections, and every scrap of information we may have overlooked. If they did this, I want them to pay with their lives."
"Yes, Chairman."
"Get the car ready."
Maximillian turned toward the wardrobe, his expression darkening.
His right-hand man immediately left to carry out the order.
By the time Maximillian arrived at Onyx Biomedical, smoke hung over the complex, partially obscuring the ruined pharmaceutical and research building.
Police cars and fire engines crowded the access road. Behind the police perimeter, firefighters worked through the wreckage while paramedics tended to injured security personnel. The hospital building remained unaffected.
Maximillian stepped out of the car and stared at the ruins.
The upper floors had collapsed, leaving broken concrete and twisted steel scattered across the access road. The specialized equipment inside the underground laboratory lay buried beneath the wreckage, representing years of research and billions in investment.
His expression hardened as he approached the police perimeter.
A police officer hurried over to intercept him.
"Chairman, please remain behind the barrier. The structure hasn't been declared safe."
Maximillian raised one hand.
The officer stopped speaking and stepped back.
Maximillian barely glanced at him. His gaze remained fixed on the ruined building, his face frighteningly still.
Then he turned toward his right-hand man.
"Find out who did this." His voice was quiet, but the fury beneath it was unmistakable.
"Yes, Chairman."
Maximillian looked back at the wreckage. His hands curled into fists at his sides, and for a moment, he seemed to struggle to contain the rage building inside him.
"Some bastard thought they could walk into my world and take apart everything that belongs to me."
His voice dropped even lower.
"They were wrong."
Sebastian arrived moments later, his face turning grim as he took in the destruction.
Kael arrived soon afterward, stopping beside the others. His face remained unreadable as he watched the blaze, its light reflecting faintly in his eyes.
Beyond the police perimeter, a lone figure watched the emergency lights flicker across the ruins.
A passing car swept its headlights over the pavement.
By the time the light moved on, the figure was gone.
********