Annabelle woke slowly, her body sore yet filled with a warmth she had never known. The weight of Namjoon's arm was draped possessively over her waist, his breath steady against her shoulder. She felt different—stronger, more aware, as if a hidden part of her had finally awakened.

She touched her neck where his mark now rested, a faint tingling sensation spreading through her body. It was done. She was bonded to Namjoon, her soulmate, her Alpha.

"Good morning, mate," Namjoon's deep, husky voice rumbled behind her.

A blush crept up her cheeks as she turned to face him. His dark eyes gleamed with satisfaction, and something deeper—something primal.

"You're staring," she muttered.

He smirked. "Can you blame me?"

Annabelle rolled her eyes, attempting to sit up, only to wince.

Namjoon's smirk deepened. "Sore?"

She glared at him. "Shut up."

With an effortless motion, he pulled her back into his arms, trapping her against his chest. His lips brushed against her marked skin, sending a shiver down her spine.

"You feel different," he murmured.

Annabelle nodded. "I do."

There was a power humming beneath her skin, coiling like an untamed force waiting to be unleashed. Her magic.

Namjoon's gaze darkened. "Your transformation has begun."

Before she could respond, a sharp knock echoed through the room.

"Anny! Open up!"

It was Sam. And from the sound of it, she wasn't alone.

Annabelle groaned, burying her face in Namjoon's chest. "My friends are here."

He chuckled. "Better get dressed, then."