It was a blind date, set up by a friend who was rather invested in his love life. Not that he minded, really, he could do with the help in that department. It wasn’t impossible to meet people, but finding the time and the opportunity to approach them was different.

He’s nervous. Excited, yes, but buzzing in a way that makes you want to flee at any moment and avoid the whole situation. Still, the little cafe was nice, and it was early enough that there was no rush or expectation to return home. Just a relaxed, casual atmosphere that helped to quell some of the nerves.

They had been friends since they were kids, and they were practically inseparable. Where there was one, you’d soon find the other, and they’d usually be laughing to themselves and finding mischief.

But they were growing up and things were starting to change. Feelings were developing. More than just friendship. And he was entirely unsure what to do with that, because it had sort of hit him out of nowhere. Much like the rest of growing up, really, suddenly they were just a year away from graduating, and the uncertainty about where their friendship would go after that had made him realise his feelings. But he still didn’t know if it was reciprocated, and had no idea how to even approach that conversation without potentially ruining a life long friendship.

Will Keene was a well respected alpha. Being in a heavily omega saturated job, running a restaurant and a cafe, had brought out a certain protectiveness in him. His harsh, booming tone knocked down brash and arrogant alphas who made the omegas uncomfortable, but he’s softer, velvety tones gently guided the wait staff and offered words of encouragement. Matched with the kindest of smiles, omegas seemed to fall for him with ease. And in some way he did feel like they were his omegas, his little crew to protect and comfort and care for. But, he knew deep down, he was trying to fill the void that was his lack of a mate. A soft, preening omega that was only his.

He was going to ask them to prom. He was actually going do it.

He had a huge crush, a difficult thing to admit but it was obvious to everyone - well, almost everyone, the recipient of the feelings seemed entirely oblivious. He wasn’t sure if that was a gift or a curse.

They’d become close when they’d been assigned seats next to each other in class, and had begun to talk a little. The teachers could tell neither of the pair had many friends. And once some attention was given, he fell head-over-heels. So, as the finals were soon approaching, he had to make his move. It was now or never.

He just wanted to relax for the afternoon, and figured if he stayed far enough away he wouldn’t bother anyone. That’s how he end up sat in the park, on a blanket, strumming away at his guitar as he hums along. People seem to be interested, a few drawing closer, but he doesn’t appear to notice as he gets deeper into the music.

He was a ‘safe’ option to help the new kid around for their first week. Being sociable, open, and friendly, and ending up sharing most of their classes, it was the most logical choice. And, due to his nature, it was no surprise when he agreed.

So there he waits, that Monday morning, waiting in the reception area for them to arrive. He was actually a little excited - it was always nice to meet new people, and if he could help someone feel more comfortable, then he would.

Its just been a normal day, running some errands and working a little. Nothing too interesting. But what he doesn’t know is that this is about to change.

He remembers sitting with his parents, intently listening as they explained what colour was like, how it was to meet your soulmate and how the colour seemed to seep from them out into the world like ink in water.

He hadn’t really expected to meet them at that moment, it was just luck really, and some people waited years to find their soulmate. But, that day, the world had decided otherwise. As he crosses the street to head to his car, he catches someone’s eyes. In that moment, he sees colour. The beautiful warmth of their eyes, the soft tones of their hair and slight tan of their skin. He knew it was them.