My shining self,
My precious soul

Gulmohar Park Estates

Saturday morning.

"Are you guys ready? Priya and Amaira, we'll be leaving soon. Amaira's appointment is at ten!" You shout at the girls who are still upstairs.

Alia laughs at your motherly demeanour. She always teases you that you'll be a very cute palaka.
Alia sat with a cup of coffee, watching the morning news.

"Mukhi will kill you if you sit with your shoes on her prized sofas," you shove her feet from the sofa.

She laughs: " Yeah, right." She took her cup to the kitchen.

You heard footsteps coming from the top-little laughter and giggles from the two younger girls.

Priya and Amaira came down the stairs, ready for their morning at the mall. Priya loves wearing her traditional Indian attire.

Amaira ran to you and gave you a big hug. You kissed her on her chubby cheeks.

Priya smiled after she greeted you and Alia: "What are the plans for today? I hope shopping is inclusive cause Mukhi gave me a few rupees to spend."

Alia grinned, "We'll pick up a few tops, and jeans would be a good idea. You need a haircut; your ends look very dry." She slipped a finger through Priya's long hair.

Priya took some of her long hair and examined her ends: " Urgh, a few split ends!"

You pat her on her shoulder: "Don't worry, I've booked an appointment for you too. Come, girls. Let's get going."

You've transformed your hair into a stunning, shiny curly do that catches the light perfectly. Alia is undeniably looking as hot as ever, radiating confidence. If you choose to join her on her trip to her dream country, you'll embrace a more natural makeup look to complement the scenic beauty around you. However, being a celebrity means you can't shake off the ever-watchful eyes of the paparazzi, always ready to capture your every move.

Alia grabs the keys from your hand: " Let me drive...You are driving as if you drove Miss Daisy...I still want to eat lunch."

You stomp your feet at the blatant bullying:" I do not...You must be careful on Delhi roads. No wonder your car had had enough of you. You're a speed monster. You almost totalled your car. Next time buy yourself a tuk-tuk. It will be safer for everyone involved."

Alia just clicks her tongue: " I still have your keys..." She ran out of the house towards the garage.

Priya and Amaira giggled loudly as they saw you running after your best friend.

"Please be careful with my Bebee (baby)!"You called after her. The Ek Ghar Lee madad (maid) is already busy cleaning the kitchen. She was chuckling at the sight of you and your loud friend. Priya took your tote bag and her and Amaira's bags.

With bright smiles, they greet the maid and spring into action behind you as you head for the door.

Outside, Alia has expertly manoeuvred the car into the driveway, ready to hit the road. You swing open the passenger door in the back, inviting the younger girls to hop in, their excitement palpable as they scramble to find their seats.

"Wait! I've almost forgotten Amaira's car seat!"You quickly ran back into the house, got Mukhi's SUV keys, and returned with the car seat. You are a very responsible chachee (aunty).

Alia's eyes sparkled with curiosity as she watched you and Priya work together to secure the seat in the back of your car. The air was filled with laughter and banter, making the task feel less like a chore and more like an adventure.

"We could've used Mukhi's SUV. I never drove a Hyundai Santa Fe before." She shook her head.

" I'm not crazy! I don't mess with my crazy sisters' stuff...ok done, let's go" You are done helping and securing Amaira in her seat.

You jumped into the passenger's seat as Alia drove out of the yard.

Priya with excitement: "I'm in charge of the playlist today! Put this USB in."

You sighed and took the challenge. Scanning the list, you noticed it was mostly BTS songs. Ugh, you groaned internally. You knew there was no way you'd stand a chance against Alia and Priya. They shared a look that said they were already picturing their victory.

As the music kicked in, Alia and Priya squealed with excitement. Priya practically jumped up and down, and together they launched into "RUN" like it was the most epic anthem ever.

Priya's laughter rang out as she sang, completely losing herself in the moment. You couldn't help but chuckle at their infectious energy-this night was shaping up to be a blast!

🎵🎶🎶🎶다시 run, run, run 난 멈출 수가 없어
또 run, run, run 난 어쩔 수가 없어
어차피 이것밖에 난 못해
너를 사랑하는 것 밖엔 못해
다시 run, run, run 넘어져도 괜찮아
또 run, run, run 좀 다쳐도 괜찮아
가질 수 없다 해도 난 족해
바보 같은 운명아 나를 욕해 🎶

Alia belts out this part...
🎶 Run
(Don't tell me bye-bye)
Run
(You make me cry, cry)
Run
(Love is a lie, lie)
(Don't tell me, don't tell me) 🎶 🎶

You watch as they huddle together, their voices dipping into hushed whispers while you cover your ears, unable to contain your laughter. The lively beats of BTS still echo in the air, infectious energy radiating from Amaira, who is completely enthralled. She claps enthusiastically, her squeals of delight ringing out, a perfect match for the excitement of the moment. The atmosphere is electric, filled with joy and the magic of music, drawing everyone into the celebration.

"Are you done now?" you asked, amused at the two breathless girls.

Priya giggled: " Not by a long shot... Let's listen to something smooth. Butterfly"

You love this song more. It's so smooth and peaceful.

During that song, something strange happens. When you hear a particular part, you feel your fingers start to release a stinging sensation. You rub indiscreetly. You frown confusedly.

Last night was hell. You couldn't sleep. Your soul mark acts out again after midnight. You hope it doesn't act out today at the mall. You already feel the weariness of too little sleep.

You mentally told yourself you'd take a long nap when you get home. Alia and Priya can look after Amaira.

You have reached the entrance of Select City Walk Mall. Amaira is so excited. Priya was just smiling at her. She loves coming to the mall with her mom.

"Jeez, it looks like it's going to be full today as it's a Saturday."Alia, turn, and you all look for a good parking space.

Priya shouts and points out: " There's one...it's near the entrance..take it!"

Alia parked your car neatly in the space. You all got out. Alia took Amaira on her hip, and you all placed your sunglasses on for minimum exposure.

"I hope there are no sightings today...I don't feel like being nice to those stupid paparazzi." Alia says with an annoyed voice.

"That's the sweet fragrance of fame, my dears." Priya haughtily says.

You agree with Priya now. It's getting tiring always to look your best on lazy days. Sometimes you just want to put on a t-shirt and jean shorts, but then you think about your national status as Miss India.

You walked into the mall and made your way to
Your appointment. Amaira was overly excited. She wants to walk by herself now.

"Can we go play games "she jumped up and down.

You smiled and took her small hands:" After we have done with your hair, ok?"

After you reach the second floor, you and Alia get your favourite salon. Geetanjali Salon.

One of India's most celebrated stylists started a brand in New Delhi, Mr. Sumit.

He was the one in charge of your hair as Miss India. You did a few hair commercials for his salon and some print ads for magazines for his hair products.

Mukhi still trusts him with her hair.

Fortunately, he was present and cheerfully greeted the two celebrities. He immediately let his noblest assistants take charge of Amaira and Priya's hair for a cut and treatments.

He was so delighted to see you again because you are always so busy with fashion design school. He wanted you to do some modelling for new products again.

"B... but we'll be crowning the new Miss India 2015... aren't you a sponsor this year?"Alia asked him, surprised.

"Oh, my dear! You girls are so out of the loop; this year, I'm the celebrity judge. Samiya,

You are judging regionals. Have you got some favourites yet?"Sumit looks at you busy with a magazine.

" There are two from Bombay and New Delhi. A medical doctor and a high school educator. I hope they make it to the elimination round. Fortunately, the final regional judging is next week before my graduation fashion showcase." You are thrilled that after graduation, you'll be done. You'll only crown your successor later in the year.

Alia grinned:" After our graduation...You might not see us. We will be going to Seoul to do a language course?"

Sumit looked shocked" Kya sachame (Oh Really)...why South Korea?"

"Oh," Alia smirked." Let's say they had the most attractive sights and sounds"

You snort and mumble inaudibly:" Are haan. Oh yeah. Bts sights."

Alia shoves you on the shoulders as you giggle at Sumit's confused face.

You talked about the latest random celebrity news until the stylist is done with Amaira and Priya's hair. Sumit was so generous. He even gave you each a styling product from his latest range for free.

Priya looks good. You thanked Sumit and left the salon with light and happy hearts. You and Alia took the girls shopping for clothing. Priya is very hyper in choosing the most fabulous Western clothing for herself.

They are going to the USA, Florida, for the summer break. She can't wait for that adventure.

Alia led you to Forever New. Priya was so excited. She quickly took a basket and ran for the air of her choice. She chose skirts, tops, jackets, swimsuits, jewellery, etc.

You knew you were going to pop up more rupees.

After a few hundred rupees poorer, you moved on. You pop into other stores. You bought yourself makeup and perfume. You went to a clothing store called Mango. You and Priya loved their casual bags. You purchased a gift for Mukhi with a cool summery shirt.

You bought yourself and Amaira sandals.

Priya already carried six of her bags.

"Can't we get a trolley for all these clothing bags? My fingers are aching now."Priya complained.

One of the staff members quickly offered to get you one at a grocery store. You smile with appreciation. Everyone wants to serve India's Sweetheart.

Alia, you popped into Zara. One of your favourite fashion stores that sells tailor-made suit pants. You bought yourself a white and a black one. It will look good when you can match it up with your designer shirts. You will be going to dinner as one of the young keynote speakers.

A group of teen boys looked at Priya with admiring eyes. You and Alia chuckled at her disgusted face.

"If Suga looked at me, I would've been a ball of goo, but those bevo (stupid) boys. Will let me throw up Crocs!"Priya made a gagging sound.

Alia giggles: "You still have six years before you get your soul mark. So I'll say enjoy your youth".

"Oh, please, Alia, let's go get something to eat before you teach Priya strange things." You suggest.

"Ok, I know where we can go eat...come," she led the way with Amaira's hand in hers.

Alia led them to an eating place called the Square. This Select City Walks food court...

"What would you guys like to eat, Asian, Chinese, Thai, American, or local?" She shows you around the food restaurants.

"I'm tired of burgers, let's go there" Priya chose a food restaurant.

"Do you like pitas?" Alia looks sceptical at Priya

"I haven't tried one in months; let's try it or we can choose our filling." Priya shrugged

"Would you like one, Amaira ?" You asked your little niece, who looked around the bustling court in wonder.

Amaira smiled widely and nodded. You moved to the Pita Pit. "Ok, let's order, then we can sit at the wooden decor tables. It will be too hot to sit inside their restaurant.

You all choose your fillings and drinks.

Amaira was so excited to sit in the "cages." A waitress specially brought your orders. She was so flustered to see two celebrities at their restaurant.

She asked for a photograph. You and Alia took a few selfies with her and gave her your autographs.

She was thrilled. You enjoy your Pita. Alia took selfies with her food and posted them on Instagram.

Priya went to order ice cream as dessert. Alia sat there, so content, and you're glad she looked happier. No sightings by patrakaarons. You could enjoy a typical leisure day.

You took a bite from your spicy Pita. You've asked for lots of jalapenos.

"So, Ali, how far did you come withe th the applications?" -You asked.

Ali sips some of her Lemon drink: "I got us an excellent university. Their language programs are not that tough. They had plenty of international students at Konkuk University. We can register in the Autumn. They have beautiful weather.

"Are you sure? It's where you want to go?" You lift your one eyebrow. Alia needs to be sure.

Alia smiles triumphantly: "Well, it's in Seoul. We will stay in one of the apartments that are closer to the uni. A former Indian student owned the apartment. She lived there for seven years. She met her Korean soulmate, got married, and placed her apartment on the market."

"Whoa, so will we afford. Seoul is expensive because it is near all the amenities. I want to experience the subways, buses, and Uber transport." You gushed.

"Are you planning to go visit Seoul?"Priya asked with visible shock in her voice.

"No, we want to go for a year and check out the language and culture. Maybe meet Bts at their fan meets and go to their final Red Bullet Concert." Alia explained.

"Why am I not invited to go? I want to see Suga up front. He is so cool and hot at the same time...can we ask Mom to send me for a few weeks with you?" She was delighted to hear about your future trips.

"I still need to tell our Palaka our plans..." you told Priya.

"Ooh, you're going to meet your biases Jin and Jungkook anytime. They like to visit malls and restaurants".

"Show that Jungkook is so hot for an 18-year-old. He let my blood boil. Did you see how well he is built? Better than over-25-year-old guys. His tights are strong..."Alia sounds so dreamy. She is smitten with this younger man...

You snort:" Can you hear yourself, Alia...Jungkook seems like a wholesome boy. He is nearer Priya's age."

Priya pulls a face: "He's cute and all, but I want an older guy...Suga is my type,"

"Omg...let's change the subject. So, Alia, our application docs are all ready." You asked with a smirk as you see an annoyed look from Priya. She wanted to talk about the boys' scouts.

Alia gave you more info and sent you the unis e-mail with all the details and requirements. You'll check it out at home.

You enjoy your leisure time, laughing and teasing together. Alia, Priya, and Amaira quickly went and bought Krispy kreme doughnuts.

You prior went to Baleel and bought gourmet dates as gifts for your parents and yourself. Mukhi hates dates, so you bought her her favorite nougat chocolates.

"Girls, it's almost 3 pm. Let's go. I need to nap. Amaira looks very sleepy." You told the girls who still watch some RunBts the summer package vids on Alia's phone.

You took a peek at what they were laughing about.

"Omg, these boys are chaotic...!" You giggle.

"Look how cute is Kookie...oh, but he is hot!"Alia's eyes are only on Jungkook. You just shook your head. Alia is a 23-year-old who's ga-ga for an almost 19-year-old. How creepy.

You smiled. But then your breath hitch in your throat when you look at the most handsome guy among the boys. The eldest- Hyung. Just the sight of him makes you inside play ring -a -Rosie. When you behold his strange wiper laughter, you want to melt. You can't wait to learn his language to hear him genuinely speak. He is the epitome of a cool guy.

Jin...your ultimate bias.

A/n: At last, an update. I'm sorry to all my Seokjin -stans for the late update. I hope you enjoy the chapter from Sami pov.

The time for them to meet has become shorter. Just hang in there.

Thank you for all your support and the love you gave "Epiphany" by reading, voting, and commenting. You are all amazing.

Thank you even to those who add the Soulbound series to their readers' list and those who follow my account-a big shout-out to you.

Please don't stay too long in the shadows. I would like to know you by giving a vote or comment.

Stay healthy and happy-happy Ramadaan to all my Muslim readers. 💜