Want a party like crazy, I know.
Want to be fluttered with love, I know.
Ye I know I know I know, Cause Me. You all must've been caught like fish.

09h00 -Morning
Physiotherapy Office suite

"Oi, Akira, leg it! I need ya to check out the treatment plans for both Mr. Cullen and Ms. Cullen. I accidentally flipped 'em." Your boss called you into their gaff.

Letting out a sigh, you feel like you're always on the go whenever there's more graft to be done. Can't Sergio rely on the admin lot for a hand? With six patients already lined up for today, you're proper knackered. Loads happening today, innit?

Got a ton of paperwork, treatment plans, and that. Just graduated as a physio at the Private Cromwell Hospital in Kensington, part of a right experienced team. They've only just set up a new physio division.

Stepping into their office, you flashed a sweet smile and chirped, "At your service, sir."

"Sorry, love, but I'm proper buried in these rehab docs. Can ya give 'em a once-over? I flipped the plans for two patients. One's in at 10 am and the other at half twelve. Both are Cullens... sort it out for me, yeah?"

You let out a big sigh, "Alright, I'll take a quick look... we gotta check when you saw 'em and what injuries they had. Mr. Andrew Cullen, the older bloke, popped in last Tuesday at 3 pm with a dodgy shoulder, and you treated Miss Nicole Cullen, the athlete with the busted foot, at 10 am on Monday. This one's for Mr. Cullen and Ms. Cullen. Forgot to jot down the times on both files." You hand the folders back.

Sergio, relieved, says, "Cheers, Luv, owe ya one." As if...

You chuckle, "That's what happens when you snog your Soulmate's face off during work hours."

Sergio just waves you away, "Just bugger off..."

You snort and leave his gaff to prep for your next patient. Got a jam-packed diary today, and the Head Physio's in a right mood. Gotta make sure the prep room's spotless after each patient buggers off.

You dashed back to your office, blitzed through some reports, grabbed all the gear needed, and sorted out your patient's activities. Got a session at 10 am with this right loud bloke, an aspiring basketball player, who's done in his knees from the playoffs.

Still grafting away in your office when your mate, also a colleague, barged in. He had this smug look plastered all over his face, making you wonder what mischief he was up to today.

You glanced up from your computer, "Alright, Byron, what's the crack? Your face looks like you've gone off the rails somewhere."

Byron just waved it off with a laugh, his signature bell-like laughter that could belong to one of those irritating kids' show hosts.

"Aw, come on, Kira... lighten up a bit. Can't I swing by and see a mate on me little break?" He dramatically rolled his eyes upwards.

"I'm shattered as it is; Sergio's gone and mixed up his treatment plans again," you sighed. Turning to Byron, you noticed his pout.

"If he just knuckles down and stops snogging his other half every minute, then we could all bugger off home early. I'm outta here tonight," you said, flashing a bright smile.

Byron chuckled, "He's proper lucky having a soulmate, and being the owner's little nephew ain't too shabby. Nice being in with the Toffs."

"Yeah, tell me about it... being in the upper-class crowd has its perks," you mused. "So, what's the favour you want? I'm not feeling particularly generous today." You warned him.

"Akira, quit being a snob...you owe me for rescuing you from Doctor Witchy witch's clutches," he said, lifting his eyes in mock supplication.

Doctor Witchy Witch runs the show in our offices, a right evil sort who loves picking apart all the fresh grads. Everyone knew she was interested in the head honcho, Dr. Leon Cunningham. But her dreams were dashed when he found his Asian soulmate in Bangkok during his family trip three weeks back.

You, being of Japanese descent, are always in her sights, waiting for any slip-up. You all make sure to do your job spot on, keeping the patients happy and well looked after.

Some patients are dead rude, others more chilled. We get loads of celebs strutting into your physio suites at your hospital.

You rolled your eyes, "Alright, Byron, what's the deal?"

Byron grinned, "That's my girl. We haven't had our matey date in ages... heard about a cracking pub. The Churchill Arms ring any bells?"

You furrow your thick eyebrows, " Huh...Oh, I think it's near my home in Kensington, not sure. One of my dad's friends had a party there, and my dad invited me to go with him. My mom was in hospital...what about it?"

Byron, with delight, " great, we are having lunch there. I'm off also, so I can drink a little. You and me and maybe Sarah, if she's not working, at the Churchill Arms at 1 pm it is a date."

You nodded," Ok, it's fine...any occasion we are celebrating...cause you don't easily spend money like that during the week!"

Byron looks at the door and quickly closes it. You look surprised at his strange behavior.

"I heard some news through the grapevine-" he whispers.

"Oh please "-you interrupt.." there's no grapevine...You've eavesdropped again."

Byron click his tongue, annoyed, "Yeah, well, I heard it in the bog."

" Byron, how many times have I told you to stop listening to other people's conversations in the restrooms...one of these days they'll know you the resident gossip...Oh, excuse me ...You are already the gossip queen."

""Don't joke around, Akira... without me, the entire office wouldn't be clued up on Doctor Witchy's fascination with that attached doctor and the gossip about Desiree being knocked up by another bloke's soulmate."

You raise your hands to halt him, "Alright, I understand. Let's go, and I'm curious to hear all the gossip that's been brewing..."

He chuckles and swiftly darts through the door. You simply shake your head. You adore your best mate, but he's a handful. Living nearby doesn't make things easier. Back when you moved in six years ago, he was the one who befriended the quiet girl next door.

Making friends wasn't easy for you as the only Asian girl in the class. Some of your classmates were a tad racist because you and your brothers looked different.

An assistant knocks at your door, and you glance up as she smiles at you.

"Yes, Margie?" She's the resident therapist's assistant. Everyone sought her help. At times, the higher-ups took advantage and made her do all the mundane tasks, like tidying up their offices or therapy rooms.

"Mr. Smith cancelled his 10 am slot and wants to reschedule for 11:30 am. Mr. Laing's in for his therapy session at 09:30."

"Let him in, please," you said, rising and gesturing for her to usher him in. And  you not looking forward to seeing the boisterous basketball player later.

Mr. Laing is in his final stage of rehabilitation, a calm and pleasant man.

"Morning, Sir. How are you today?" You beam warmly at the gentleman in his sixties. A few months back, he had a mishap, falling from a ladder while tending to his rosebushes, dislocating his shoulders. But the recovery's been slow. He's now under your care instead of Doctor Witchy, who wasn't keen on giving Sergio additional tasks since he's your, Byron's, and Sarah's senior. The three of you graduated together and were interns at this private hospital.

At least you admire Mr. Laing. He carries himself with such respect and grace, almost like a nobleman.

"Good day, dearie. I'm doing splendidly. Mrs. Laing asked me to give you this. Fresh scones and crumpets." He hands you a container. You thank him graciously. You plan to share them later during tea time with the staff; Margie and Sarah particularly adore the crumpets.

Mrs. Laing holds you in high regard. She appreciates how warmly you care for her husband, unlike Sergio's cold approach.

You guided him to sit on the examination bed and began the therapy session.

Gently working on the affected area, you reassured Mr. Laing, "The pain will ease completely, I know it's a bit uncomfortable." You worked through the soft tissue, speaking to him in a soothing manner.

You also discussed pain relief techniques and recommended some exercises for him to do at home.

After a few stretching exercises, your session was complete. He expressed his gratitude, and you escorted him through the reception area, handing his folder to Margie for documentation.

Following two more patients and one canceled appointment, the basketball player opted to reschedule for next week. Luckily, you'll be off that week, and he'll be Byron's issue. Both you and Sarah will be off too. However, Byron wasn't as fortunate because the management is aware of your friendship. Now, your day's work is completed.

You swiftly tidy up your office and ensure all your reports are captured on your computer.

It's nearly 12:30 pm – time for your lunch break and the end of your workday. Last week, you and Byron put in an extra two hours when the team decided to celebrate Doctor Cunningham's return. Unfortunately, you missed meeting his soulmate.

You switch out of your work uniform into a stylish black dress. You brought along your skinny jeans and a favorite t-shirt, but you opt against it. You run a comb through your long mahogany brown hair and touch up your makeup.

Glancing at your reflection, you let out a sigh. You feel everything about you is just average. Your best features might be your almond-shaped eyes and full eyebrows and maybe your cute , small lips and the beauty spot above your top lip. You also have a petite 1.68m frame with a lovely body structure and well formed legs, but that's about it.

Your phone buzzes just as you're about to leave the office. You check your messages and see a text from Byron.

""Are you ready, love?"

"Yeah, all set. Is Sarah coming along?"

"Yeah, but she's joining us for the drinks in an hour. She's got some reports to redo that Doctor Witchy wasn't happy with, and then she's rescheduled two of Sergio's patients for today. He'd already scarpered by 11 am."

"What a load of codswallop... Anyway, I'll be waiting at reception for you. Or are you already there?"

"Yeah, I'm chatting with Margie and Angela. They're showing me some stuff about these Chinese fellas... the way they carry on is something else. I'll tell you more later."

"Alright, catch you later. Oh, and you're paying for lunch today."😊

"Blimey Akira ...Obviously !!"😕

"Just checking 😉

You shook your head and made your way downstairs to the reception. There, you discovered Byron in fits of laughter over something Margie had said.

You give them a friendly greeting and glance over at Byron, who sizes you up.

You furrow your brow while Margie and Angela start sniggering.

"What's his deal?" You inquire, looking questioningly at the two older girls.

Margie stifles a giggle, "Just Byron... he bet that you'd rock up in your ripped jeans and grey tee, so he's just lost £20."

"Byron... that's my favourite casual wear," you scold him, clearly annoyed. Byron just smirks back at you.

"But you did scrub up well. Can't deny you're looking more stunning, and your figure's top-notch—"

"Blimey, Byron... show some respect. You can't talk about someone's body like that," Angela scolds an unfazed Byron. "Although you're not wrong... you'll drive your soulmate insane," she smirks.

"Good grief! Angela... no wonder Byron acts like a daft idiot around girls... he needs more mates who are blokes," you say, looking at them with irritation in your eyes.

"Oh, my lovely lass... I'm sorry, let's go... I'll treat you to some Thai nosh," he slings his arms around your shoulders.

They both greet the two giggling girls. You glare at Byron and push him away.

"What nonsense was that? If I catch you blabbering about my bits... I'll blurt out who your Soulmate is for everyone to hear. The tabloids are already snooping around," you warn him.

He gives you a puzzled look. "I said sorry... we were only messing about. Good grief... Akira. You wouldn't do that to your other brother."

You grab him by the elbow and haul him out of the hospital. Right now, you need some grub.

Byron chuckles at your antics. You two always squabble but quickly make amends.

He drives you to the spot. The Churchill Arms, London's top-notch pub, with cracking cocktails and even a Thai menu.

Usually, folks have to queue up outside due to the pub's popularity. But oddly, you were only a few spots behind in line. Byron seemed quite relieved.

"I reckoned the queue would snake around the whole block... thank goodness!" He breathed a sigh of relief.

An avalanche of trailing flowers adorned the Churchill Arms, concealing it from view. You've heard it's decked out with forty-eight window boxes, forty-two hanging baskets, and a hundred flower pots.

You're astonished by the exterior. The last time you visited with your dad was late at night.

"Look at all these flowers, it's like flower central," you observe.

Byron gazes at the splendid flowers adorning the pub. "I feel for the poor chap tasked with watering this lot," he remarks dryly.

You chuckle, "They must be splashing some serious cash on the garden nursery."

"

"Are we grabbing a spot inside or outside?" Byron queried.

"If we're going to be here for more than an hour, let's head inside. It's more laid-back indoors," you replied with a smile.

Finally, it was your turn to be seated. Both you and Byron opted for dishes from the Thai menu—noodles, curry, and rice.

Byron licked his lips eagerly. You simply shook your head and placed your order.

The waitress cast an intrigued look at your charming mate, engrossed in his menu. Girls were always drawn to Byron's affable nature, sexy British accent, and towering 1.8m height.

Back in high school, most girls despised your friendship with one of the most popular lads around. Behind his back, you faced relentless bullying.

You and Byron met Sarah during your first year at Uni, becoming the inseparable trio.

Funny to think he was such a bookworm when you were both 15.

Sarah had a more carefree spirit, brimming with vivacity and positivity. On the contrary, you were reserved, introverted, and plagued by self-doubt, largely due to being an adopted child.

You sort out your grub and drinks. Byron tends to take ages looking through the menu. It's always a good five minutes before he's ready to order.

You let out a sigh and glance up at the waitress, "Sorry... um, just give my mate another 5 minutes. He'll have his mind made up by then." Byron's too engrossed in his menu, flipping back and forth.

"Come on, Byron, make a decision, mate. We'll still be here come breakfast!" you plead.

Byron chuckles. "If I order and it's rubbish, I'm nicking yours, alright."

You smile warmly at him, "You always end up pinching some of mine... sneaking bites off my plate like I don't notice."

"Alright, then. Give me a portion of the Pad Thai, curry Kaeng Keiw with an Old Mout Apple and Passion Fruit drink," he says.

"I'll go for a rice dish, Khan Rad Na with spring rolls and stir-fried mixed veggies... and I'll have a Fruit Shoot Apple and Blackcurrant drink. Cheers," you hand the menus back to the waitress.

Byron's looking around the pub, intrigued by all the greenery. You both chat about random bits until our grub and drinks show up.

It looks proper tasty. Fingers crossed it's not too spicy.

You gracefully tucked into your spring rolls and dips.

"So, what's the deal with the eavesdropping?" you asked, taking a bite of your rice dish.

He chuckled, "Overheard a couple of the certified physios gossiping about a chance of a big-time celeb getting treatment here during a gig. Apparently, it's a pop star, and their management's already booked sessions. The whole staff's buzzing. Seems like a big deal."

"Blimey, a celebrity...why all the hush-hush though? We've had celebs here before. You're even dating one," you furrow your brows.

"These aren't your run-of-the-mill celebs. Supposedly top-tier. I reckon Jack mentioned they're the biggest boy band on the planet."

"One Direction's been on a century-long hiatus, mate," you sadly remark. You were a hardcore Directioner. They broke your heart in 2015 when Zayn abruptly left, and you shipped him with Perrie. But that ship crash, and later on, he met his soulmate, Gigi, a top model or something.

You don't really follow bands anymore. They just mess with your emotions when they split like that. But hey, at least the other four are still out there touring. I'm a Nailer fan through and through.

Byron laughs, "OMG...our Directioner days. We were hardcore back then. You still got your Niall t-shirts, right?"

You chuckle, "Oh, absolutely, but the twins nabbed 'em... Music's not my scene these days. Too tied up doing everyone else's graft."

Byron grins and eyes your grub, "Mind if I have a nibble...that rice looks decent... How about you try my curry?"

"Be my guest... here," you pass him the shrimp dish too. You're stuffed now.

You had a proper good lunch. Sarah finally rocked up after an hour, looking like she'd run a marathon. Waited just 10 minutes before the waitress clocked her name on the bookings. Poor thing's got a two-hour shift lined up.

"Hey, guys. Finally made it," she pants, looking knackered.

"You seem worn out, Sarah," you express concern.

"Absolutely knackered... these spring rolls smell and look divine," she gazes longingly at them. Your portion's halfway done.

"You can have the rest of mine," you offer.

"Cheers, guys... only had a couple of crumpets during tea," she complains.

Byron chuckles, "Here, have some curry and rice too. I'll tuck into Kira's noodle dish. What's your poison?" He signals the waitress.

"I'll grab a 'Fever Tree Elderflower Tonic Water with Cranberry'...and a glass of still water, thanks, luv," she orders her drinks.

They've taken their friendship to a whole new level. All three are over 21. Byron's six months older than you and Sarah by four months. Both of them have already found their soulmates.

Sarah initially belonged to the Tarnished lot, but two months later, she was gobsmacked to become a "late whisperer" (a Tarnished person who gets a soul mark later in life). About twenty-five of those are already registered in the UK. She was relieved to find her soulmate, and they've got a blue string, both keen on a proper relationship rather than playing the dating game.

On the other hand, Byron has a clandestine relationship with a member of the aristocratic family, the Duke and Duchess Von Adderley, who have four beautiful daughters and a son.

Byron crosses paths with the youngest daughter at an upscale restaurant where he works part-time as a waiter. They connect when she accidentally bumps into him on her way to the restroom. His soulmate has the red gold string, while he has the protective blue string. She loves him deeply, and he naturally falls in love with her too. The Duke and Duchess have taken a liking to him due to his upbringing. Their relationship remains discreet, but a few tabloids are monitoring them, albeit without his face appearing on their covers.

On the other hand, you are still single. You have no interest in having a soulmate because you feel unworthy of one. Will your soulmate's parents accept a girl with no family lineage? You do not even know your birth parents, who abandoned you.

You were adopted at the age of 13 years when your other foster parents raised you from birth and died in a plane crash. They were the ones who adopted you in Japan. You don't have any documents from your birth parents.

The orphanage in Tokyo was tight-lipped about your lineage, so your adoptive parents only got your birth certificates and no parent's name. Maybe it was a teenager that got pregnant and left you on the doorstep.

Two tourists from England then took in you and your twin brothers, and brought you back with nine-year-old twins, Kenichi and Keitaro.

Your new parents are very affectionate and deeply spiritual individuals. Your father is a History Professor at Richmond University at the Kensington Campus, and your mother went on to become an accomplished Chartered Accountant.

You are deeply grateful to them for the privileged lifestyle you have been fortunate enough to lead. Through hard work, you earned a scholarship to study at Leicester University. You and your best friend made the decision to study there and live in the dorms, returning home on weekends and during holiday seasons.

Byron resides with his grandparents, Sir Harry Thomas. His grandfather was knighted by the queen for services rendered to the throne, whatever that entails. Byron's father serves as an Ambassador in Portugal. He came to stay with his grandparents when he turned 13 years old. Notably, he is fluent in Portuguese and Spanish.

Once Sarah finished her meal, you opted to sit at the bar and ordered some light cocktails and dessert. You both laughed and relished in your time together.

After spending two hours at the pub, you departed for your home in Kensington Main.

A/N: Hi, my beautiful superstar readers, I hope you enjoy the story of Akira. Give the book some love. And welcome to all the readers from the UK. I hope you love the setting.

Give me a shout-out if you ever visited any places mentioned in the book. Drop some cute slang words you currently used in everyday life. Don't forget to vote, comment or follow if you like Jhope's book.

Love you all. Remember, in the words of BTS Shy king, I Purple you.💜

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