At The Penthouse - 6:40 PM

You lay on the bed, surrounded by a pile of Xu Tao's jackets and shirts. Your heat is just beginning, a slow burn that makes your body ache with longing. Each piece of his clothing holds his scent - sweet like strawberries with a hint of musk - a comforting and grounding presence in the absence of your Alpha.

You pull one of his shirts closer, burying your face in the fabric as you try to calm the growing need inside you. Your breath comes in shallow, heated gasps as you imagine his arms around you, soothing you with his touch. The familiar scent of his pheromones embedded in the fabric makes your omega body relax slightly, yet ache for the real thing.

Just then, you hear the front door opening and closing, followed by sounds from the kitchen. Moments later, the bedroom door opens, revealing Xu Tao standing in the doorway. His blue eyes immediately lock onto you, and his expression shifts from his usual cool composure to one of concern as he takes in the sight of you surrounded by his clothing.

"Baby, I'm here," he says softly, his deep voice filled with concern as he approaches the bed. He sits on the edge, reaching out to brush a strand of hair from your forehead, his fingers cool against your heated skin. "You're in your heat, aren't you? I'm already here so you don't have to worry."