“I don’t know!”

Storm huffed and pushed the paper cup into Linus’ hand. Then he stared at Linus some more.

In fact, Storm looked into his eyes for what felt like hours.

“You’re... not going to check on your omega?”

Storm sighed. “It’syou,Professor.”

And he blushed.

Linus’ heart stuttered. “Me?”

“Well, I wasn’t planning on asking you right now,” Storm mumbled, dropping his gaze. “Or anytime soon. I know I’m not the best alpha.”

Suddenly it all made sense. Storm taking care of him, Storm following him everywhere.

Storm jerking off to him and touching his toys.

Linus looked at the cup of coffee in his hands, a deep blush rising to his cheeks. “Oh.”

“Yeah.”

“I... I can’t believe I didn’t put the pieces together sooner. I’m... really embarrassed.”

Storm shrugged. “I tried not to be obvious about it. I didn’t want you to think I’m a creep.”

“How long have you...?”

Storm avoided his eyes. “I’d rather not say.”

“Okay.”

But Storm snapped his gaze up, frowning fiercely. “You should know that I have blood on my hands.”

Linus peeked. Storm’s hands were clean.

“I’ve spent time in prison,” Storm clarified.

Linus nodded. “I figured that. Why were you there?”

“I killed someone,” the alpha said quietly.

“Who?”

Storm glanced at the open classroom door. “I’ll tell you later.”

“Okay.”

Storm took Linus’ hands, looking into his eyes. He was frowning deeply. “Does none of this scare you?”

“Maybe if I didn’t know you,” Linus said slowly. “But I—I’ve known you for years, ever since you first commented on my videos. You’ve been nothing but polite.”

“Serial killers can be polite,” Storm said dryly. “I’ve met a few.”

“How did you stop them from killing you in prison?” Linus yelped.

“By being careful. And knowing how to fight. And becoming friends with them.”