Recap:

As you settled into each other's arms, the promise of love lingered in the air-a silent agreement that tomorrow would unveil a new chapter in your bond marked by the sweet fragrance of your entwined destinies.

.......

The process of the mark settling was just as agonizing, but within Namjoon's embrace and lingering kisses, you found solace. A newfound awareness blossomed between the two soulmates.

As the mark settled in, you became even more enchanting for Namjoon. He took a deep breath as you lay in each other's arms, grateful that fate had bestowed you upon him-his beautiful moonchild.

After a few minutes, you decided to freshen up, your bodies aching from the mark's settling. Namjoon looked down at your flushed face and asked, "Would you like to shower first? I can refresh in another bathroom."

You smiled, looking up at his smiling face. "Okay, um... should you inform your parents about your status?" you asked quietly.

"Yes, maybe tomorrow. Management will come and fetch us tomorrow at noon. We can spend the day together, and would you like to travel with us to New York?" he asked hopefully.

You inhaled and bit your lips, "I'm too scared to bring attention to a new addition to your team. People will notice me... uh, my friends have already booked tickets for us to New York."

"Oh wow! So you are touring the USA. You, Tala, and Jin-Goo?" he asked, interested. He desperately wanted you to be with him like all the soulmates, but he knew that a new addition to the team would raise some awkward questions. 

However, it seems that BangPd had an immediate liking for his humble and polite soulmate. Even though both were in private middle schools, she was always poised and gracious in her speech and handled herself well in the face of bullying, primarily because of him and Jin-Goo's exes.

"Yes, Shaniqua , Tyrella and their soulmates have already booked an itinerary for us for a few days. We will attend your 'Grammy Museum talk' and your performance on 'America's Got Talent.' We are so excited, and I want to experience it with my Army friends." You grinned at him.

Namjoon looked surprised. "That's so awesome! I'll be seeing you for extra days. Our bond will be energized. But Vicsy... I want you desperately with me... I know you said we must wait a bit until you're ready to seal the bond... are you going to punish me for months now?" he looked, and his lips were slightly pouting.

You pressed your lips and smiled discreetly into his chest, where you lay snuggled up. "I know we are married by the system, and red-gold is not a very lenient string... I promise it won't be a month."

Namjoon groaned, "Gosh, it's going to be hell. I truly understand how my Hyungs feel without their soulmates."

You snickered softly, lifted your face, and kissed him gently on his dimpled cheek. "You are a strong and macho man-just hang in there for a moment, okay."

Namjoon sighed, "Okay, I'll rein my desires in... but did you look at yourself, Vicsy? You are gorgeous... the years have favoured you. It's going to be so hard for me."

You chuckled, "It's almost midnight-do you think you will handle sleeping next to me?"

Namjoon smirked, "I'm not going to sleep alone, knowing my gorgeous soulmate is so near. Don't worry, I think I'll handle it."

But his expression already depicted that sleeping next to his moonchild required extra strength and courage. At least they would fall asleep quickly after a hot bath or shower to ease the muscle stiffness.

You grinned, "Okay, then it's settled. I'll shower first, and we can enjoy snuggling up until we fall asleep," you suggested.

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The gentle rays of the morning sun filtered through the sheer curtains, casting a warm, golden glow across the room. Namjoon's eyes fluttered open, adjusting to the brightness of the morning light in the bedroom.

He turned to look at the serene beauty beside him and propped himself up on one elbow to watch his moonchild sleeping peacefully. She was draped in sheets that fell gracefully over her body. The soft morning light highlighted the beautiful contours of her face, casting a gentle glow on her serene features. Like dark threads, strands of hair framed her face, and a contented smile played on her lips.

The room was filled with a peaceful silence of the morning. A surge of affection overwhelmed Namjoon as a gentle smile spread across her face. He extended his hand and caressed the outline of his soulmate's face with his fingertips, trying not to disrupt the tranquillity of the moment with his feather-light touch.

He marvelled at the delicate curve of her eyelashes, her chest's soft rise and fall, and the warmth radiating from her slumbering form. She was clothed in a white silk pyjama camisole, her arm loosely draped over his waist.

As Namjoon reminisced about the previous night's inability to sleep comfortably with his soulmate in his arms, he glanced over Vicsy's tranquil form. She looked content and peaceful, with a slight smile on her face. Always fresh-faced and beautiful, he noticed a new maturity in her.

Her eyes fluttered as she felt his light touch on her cheeks. When she opened her eyes, they widened as she realized the moment's intimacy, lying in bed with her smiling soulmate.

"Morning, darling, you looked so serene in your slumber," he uttered softly, deep affection evident in his eyes. A gentle smile appeared at the corners of your mouth as you turned and gazed into his eyes, the morning sun caressing his face.

Vicky felt her body shiver just lying there next to this attractive male specimen.

"Morning Joons--" you greeted him a seductivity in your sleepy, croaky voice.

Namjoon smiled as he gently caressed your neck, his lips brushing against the delicate folds of your skin. Your breath hitched at his touch as his tender kisses trailed along your neck; you couldn't help but giggle softly, feeling the warmth of his breath mingling with the breezy morning air.

The intensity in his eyes reflected the depth of his emotions, conveying a silent promise of love and affection.

With each soft kiss, he whispered adoration words, "I love you, Choi Victory... I love how your skin feels so soft when I run over it. Vicsy, you're the one who soothes my mind and lifts my spirit; you're the true hope I see! I love you more than words could ever say..." as he slowly cupped your face and kissed your lips with renewed hunger.

Your gentle eyes locked with his as your arm slid over his chest, clothed in a sleeveless white top. You caressed his bare, muscled arms and answered his kiss with the same amount of zeal.

The air was charged with undeniable tension as Namjoon gently pulled and flipped himself on top of her, her arms tightly around his neck as he gently kissed her soft lips.

As their lips met in a tender kiss, you felt a rush of sensations coursing through your body. Your skin tingled with electricity, and your heart quickened, echoing the intimate moment. The passion between you seemed to spark an inferno within you, leaving you breathless and yearning for more.

The warmth of his touch ignited a fire within you, but inwardly, your emotions were in turmoil. You suddenly longed for more, yearned for his love to envelop you entirely.

As their lips parted briefly, your eyes met his, reflecting a kaleidoscope of emotions. Desire, vulnerability, and a silent plea for a deeper connection echoed in her gaze. Your hands were playing with his dark blonde hair. Namjoon was breathless as he stared deep into your eyes, realizing you both wanted each other more than ever.

"I love you with everything within me, Joon. Please make me completely yours. Love me," you whispered against their lips.

Namjoon inhaled deeply as he sensed the turmoil within you, cradling your face in his hands, his thumb gently stroking your flushed cheeks.

His breath was rugged at the silent begging," Are you sure, Vicsy-darling? There will be no turning back," he asked you softly as your foreheads touched, "When I love you...I want to do it thoroughly without restraint because heaven knows how much I desire you right now... at this moment." he huskily uttered, gazing fixedly in your warm honey brown eyes.

You nodded with a slightly nervous smile, and a profound understanding passed between you in that shared vulnerability. You snake your arms around his neck and pull him down, kissing him with all the yearning within.

"Don't restrain yourself. I'm soo ready." You softly chuckled.

Namjoon breathily laughed as he waggled his brows,"Well, who am I to deny his soulmate her first full breakfast as bonded mates?"

You both snicker as Namjoon pulls the duvet over your bodies, where your passion and the promise of a more profound love merge into an unforgettable moment of intimacy. The intimate ritual was triggered above you as the room emerged with the glorious white-blue swirls.

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After a passionate morning, you and Namjoon enjoyed lying close-eyed in bed. You thought about how exciting it was to seal your bond. Your bodies were sweaty from your intimate encounters, and the air around you felt warm.

You will feel energized for weeks before it's time for re-invigoration. You can both go separately and still feel energized. You won't have soul-mark problems anymore. Joonie can go on tour, and you and Tala can return and start operating your law firm.

Namjoon stroked your dark hair out of your face as he kissed your forehead, saying, "Thank you, Vicsy... Thank you for not punishing me. If you did...it would be torture"

You were just caressing his arms quietly.

You pressed your lips tighter to suppress a grin. "At first, I wanted to punish you for not waiting for me and dating Jia. But I love you, Joons, and I can't do it to us. I will yearn too much for you when we are not together, and I want you to perform with vigour and energy," you softly stated as you looked up into his loving eyes. His dimpled smile captivated you, and you just can't get enough of your handsome soulmate.

"You never cease to amaze me, darling. You are one fiery foxy, and I can't wait for another encore. Your touches and kisses are addictive," he chuckled softly at your widened eyes as you gasped.

"Oh my word, Joons, how many encores will satisfy you? You performed three times, and ... you need another encore!" You looked flabbergasted.

Namjoon smirked, "Well... we are on our honeymoon, baby. I don't think I'll allow you to leave the bed so soon. We still have a full performance scheduled."

You laughed as you playfully slapped him on his bare chest, "What about real breakfast? It's almost noon."

Namjoon pulled you higher against his torso and looked down at your blushing face, "I've already had a full course, and we can order a healthy brunch later... but right now, I need us to perform an intense duet."

You squealed as Namjoon suddenly flipped you on top of him. Your eyes widen in shock!

......

Namjoon has already informed management that you prefer to relax and spend the afternoon together. They were understanding, and Bangpd encouraged him to enjoy his time with his bonded mate. Management will discuss a suitable date for the soulmates' honeymoon getaway. The CEO was pleased with the footage of the bonding ritual.

Namjoon's inbox was flooded with messages from the maknaes congratulating him on completing the bond. Even his hyung sent him teasing messages. He appreciates his hyung and plans to get him something special to express his gratitude for rescuing him from a brooding, protected scandal.

"I urge you, President Kim Namjoon, amidst the passionate red string, to safeguard yourselves. We don't want another 'baby daddy' saga. My heart can't handle too much stress...😏🫣

...but enjoy the ride. You need a triple stress reliever.

😘 (that's supposed to be my flying kiss...so don't get your hopes up. You're not my type. 🤣🤣🤣

-Jin- Mr. Worldwide Handsome."

Even the chat group was buzzing about his soulmate. The Bells want her to spend time with them at the Ritz Hotel Spa. They are annoyingly excited, and with five Bells already, Bangpd might reveal them soon.

Namjoon took a hot shower after you'd taken an aromatic bath. He was still in the shower while you were dressing and applying your make-up. You looked perplexed at the little reddish visitors on your neck areas. You sigh deeply as you cover it up with the best of your concealers. You better make sure that Namjoon isn't marked because the Bangtan boys you met looked like merciless teasers, and you can imagine how they will tease him.

You apply your nude lipstick with a dash of gloss when you hear Namjoons' phone ringtone next to the dresser.

You don't know if you had to leave it be. You decided just to let it ring. It went off, and then it rang again. You hope is not urgent because Namjoon is till enjoying his time alone in the shower.

You sighed as the phone rang again, quickly standing at the bathroom door, which wasn't locked. Grinning, you heard Namjoon rapping a tune.

"Joon...Joon!" you called softly.

"Yes, baby?" he said as he opened the shower door. Blushing, you turned your back on his wet naked frame, and you heard him snicker.

"Um... your phone keeps ringing... not sure if it's urgent. It rang three times already, then stopped, but it's ringing again," you said, a bit breathless. Your hormones seemed to be in overdrive.

Namjoon furrowed his brows, "Oh, it might be Hanbin. Tell him to come by at 5 pm. I still want to spend time with you."

"Okay," you said, closing the bathroom door behind you. Luckily, the ringing stopped, and you could finish applying your neutral makeup. Sighing, you heard the phone ring again while brushing your hair.

Jumping up with the brush still in your hand, you pressed the green button without checking the caller ID.

"Good morning!---" you greeted cheerfully, but an irritated female voice quickly interrupted before you could even confirm it's your soulmates phone.

"Who are you? Where is Joonie? Why are you answering his phone?" she bombarded you with questions.

Your eyes widened in amazement as you looked at the caller ID, realizing it was Namjoon's ex-girlfriend, Jia, who had been calling him all morning. What a clingy girl.Jeez, it's not like Namjoon was kidnapped by saseangs.

"Answer me! Where is Namjoon?" she demanded, sounding agitated.

You winced at the harsh tone, then inhaled and felt a mischievous idea come to you. Your gaze fleetingly darted to the bathroom door.

"Oh, sorry, Namjoon is in the shower...who am I speaking with?" you said, stifling a loud snicker, when you heard a sharp intake of breath. But it was the truth.

"What! I'm Jia...his- since when are stylists or lowly staff members allowed to touch 'stars' phones!" she yelled at you.

She assumed you were a stylist, perhaps unable to grasp that the superstar had moved on. You were left speechless by the rude rapper.

"... you know what - tell him I'll call him later and next time don't answer someone else's private calls-" she abruptly hung up.

Oh my goodness, you wanted to keep your cool and tell her you're not her servant. Not even the royal family talks to their palace staff that way. His majesty the king is very strict about how people are addressed.

You looked dumbfounded at the phone in your hand as Joon came out of the bathroom, drying his hair with a towel. Your breath caught when you met his inquiring eyes. This man is super hot, and your cheeks heat up thinking about your passionate encounter.

"Are you okay?" he asked, concerned about the shift in your emotions. His eyebrows wrinkled at your flushed face.

"Uh, yeah. It wasn't your management. It was...er... your ex-girlfriend-I'm sorry," you softly stated, handing his phone back.

Namjoon looked visibly shocked, "Jia called?"

You snorted dryly, "How many ex-girlfriends do you have? Of course, it's the rapper. She said she'll call you later." You turned around so he wouldn't see your conflicted expression.

Does Jia and Namjoon still see each other? She was vocal and shocked that a girl was answering his phone, not his mom or sister.

Sensing your anxiety, he quickly came and stood behind you, wrapping his arms around your tiny waist against his naked upper torso. His chin on your shoulder, he placed a soft kiss on your exposed shoulder.

"Darling, don't look so worried. Jia and I are done. You don't have to apologize. I'll give you the passcode to my phone. No secrets between us. Jia and I are just friends. No romantic feelings linger in my heart. I'm bonded to you, and I love you more than I ever loved her. You're my girl," he looked affectionately at you, trying to soothe your worries.

"Does she know that? She sounded so agitated when she heard a girl's voice. Luckily, she didn't give me time to state my name. What are you going to tell her if she calls? A stylist will never be in a room where you are busy showering...Oh my gosh! Do you think she'll-?" You looked a little fearful in his amused eyes.

You turn and move out of his embrace with wide eyes.

"Don't be upset, darling. She knows we are in the past. I'll deal with it. Let's forget about Jia," he opened his phone, sent a message to Hanbin, then switched his phone off.

He is with his soulmate, and Jia is not important right now. He doesn't want distractions during his short honeymoon. His priority is Vicky and what makes her happy.

You smiled, raising your eyebrows. "Joon, why are you switching your phone off? She said she'll call later," you said with a sour tone. You didn't want him involved with the girl who wanted to ruin his reputation. She made you feel uncomfortable, almost with her stalkerish vibes.

Namjoon snorted, noticing your expression, "Well, she can wait. Nothing is more important than you... You look riveting, by the way-" he pulled you back against him by the waist as you gasped at the sudden proximity. His eyes had that seductive intensity.

"Kiss me, and then we can order anything you like. We don't need BangPd's chef. I think you must be starving right now. Just give me a few moments, and we can place an order. You can choose what you would like to eat since you have more knowledge of the best places in LA-"

"Oh gosh, yes! I'm going to order a feast from Howlin' Ray's Hot Chicken. Tyrella ordered some at the hotel, and it was so spicy and delicious. Go and get yourself covered. I'll do the ordering," you grinned as you quickly grabbed his neck down and kissed him with a little more passion, leaving him dazed.

You walked out giggling, descended the winding staircase, and Googled the number of the restaurant. You could place a pin on Bangpd's house with your online order.

You ordered various meals because you knew your soulmate had a huge appetite, and his 1.8-meter frame attested to that.

When your order arrived, Namjoon was fully dressed. You couldn't believe how hungry you both were as you sat on the patio and enjoyed your brunch.

A few minutes before, while Joon was getting ready, you received a call from Prince Miquel, your third brother. He had heard from your parents that you met your commoner soulmate, a high-level citizen and megastar. He wanted you both to meet him at a five-star hotel in Manhattan for lunch. It slipped your mind that you still needed to come clean to your soulmate about your true lineage. Joonie knew your "security" story since middle school. Luckily, Jin-Goo and Tala would be present.

After that, it would be your parents' turn to meet your soulmate. This meant Namjoon must be willing to go with you to Madrid. Additionally, the Crown-Prince, residing in the Philippine palace with your grandma, the Queen-mother, expected you to bring your soulmate to them. How would you pull off that secret? BTS always drew attention wherever they went, officially or unofficially.

Later, you walked hand-in-hand around the sparkling pool, taking candid selfies. You looked stunning in a blue and white striped sleeveless dress. Namjoon took numerous photos of you, and you sent him pictures of yourself during your uni days with your natural long hair. He couldn't believe how beautiful his soulmate was, and his love for you grew every minute.

You hadn't discussed the big white elephant in the room-Jia. Why was she so insistent on being in your soulmate's life? Will she still have family visitation rights?

You really hoped you wouldn't have trouble with his ex-girlfriend, as you could make life very tough for her if she dared to pursue your soulmate.

Later, you and Joonie were relaxing in the lounge with a bottle of white wine. Snuggled up, you excitedly talked in a relaxed manner about your school days and caught up on what happened to everyone.

His school ex-girlfriend studied to be a makeup artist and stylist, trying unsuccessfully several times to get a job at Bighit. He made sure to tell BANGPD about her. Jackson and Felix both debuted in different K-pop bands, and they are still very much in touch.

He shared about his parents and his only sister in Canada with her soulmate. You already knew a lot about him, but it was interesting to have a front-row seat when he told you about BTS's journey. The hardships in the underground rap scene and the backlash he, Yoongi, and Hobi faced from traditional rappers.

He confided in you about feeling nervous to speak at UNICEF to represent the youth.

"Joons, don't fret. You are a good speaker and very intelligent. I was always proud of you, even if you made Tala and me jealous for always getting the top spot in the whole school."

Namjoon chuckled, "I remember how you apparently confronted the Maths teacher about your marks. You came second in the whole school. It was so amusing-"

You just scrunched up your nose, "It's not funny... um, Joon, can I ask you something?" Nervousness enveloped you.

"I sense another concern... you're not worried about my ex?" he glanced at you as you bit your lip in apprehension. He softly caressed your arms.

"No, we'll deal with that issue later... I have another family member from Spain, sort of a national envoy. He will be in NYC, and I was wondering if you would meet us for lunch. Jin-Goo and Tala will be there also," you asked a little nervously.

Namjoon gave that deep dimple smile, 'Why not. I'll arrange with management. You'll just communicate with me, and if we don't have a tight performance schedule, I'll gladly meet your family."

You smiled brightly, "Oh, wonderful." You sighed in relief.

Namjoon pulled you close against him, "Well, we still got an hour before management will pick us up." He waggled his eyebrows in a seductive manner. You just smirked when he cupped your soft cheek and leaned down, meeting your willing mouth in an intense kiss...

Thank you so much for the love you've given to this fanfic. The comments were amazing. To all my voters, feel free to engage with us in the comment section. I promise I'll reply. Your feedback always encourages me to keep working hard to bring you great updates.

A shout-out to the binge commenters :@ArmyLovesPurple @Girlnamjooning @himffic @PurbaBiswas496 @XxAhana22184xX @Megan29Jayne @MarieKarlsson3 @jpn0214 @Goshluv @lolapolousa01 @tinaphilonavz @squeaki20707

1. What are your thoughts on the bonding chapter?

2. Why do you think Jia called?

3. What do you think is going through Jia's mind right now after the call?

4. Do you think Vicky feels insecure about Jia and Namjoons friendship?

5. Do you think Namjoon soothes her worries?

6. Do you think there might be Army footage leakage of Namjoon's bonding on stage?

7. Any thoughts on how the meeting with Prince Miguel will go?

Don't forget to press the star ⭐ if you like the fanfic.🥰