A week after Christmas, Tae and I return to my penthouse apartment for a meeting with Namjoon and Jin. It has been nearly two weeks since Max Moon walked his trashy ass into my office. I still feel disgusted when I think about it. We plan to talk about the show, Max Moon, and the Tommie Chen situation. I hand Tae a cold beer and take a seat next to him on the couch as we wait for Namjoon and Jin to arrive. I spoke briefly with Namjoon yesterday and he said he and Jin have some ideas they want to share with me and Tae. Whatever we do Tae is now a part of my life and will be involved in my decision making. I'm still not 100% sure about doing another season. Namjoon says the network is eager to get us in for contract talks and have made some very generous offers. I don't need their money, nor do I want the fame anymore. I care about what Namjoon and I have built and how it touches so many people.

"Tae this penthouse feels cold to me now. I know we said we'd talk about this later, but I miss the farm. I want to build a life with you there," I says as Tae leans forward and softly smiles placing his beer on the table in front of him.

"Kookie, I don't want you to make a rushed decision. Your work is in the city, and I like your penthouse and being in the city. We will think more about it,-"

"No Tae. I know what I want. I want to be with you at the farm and sit on the couch in the evening and pet Tannie and feed Zeus his apple each night. I love that adorable little town and its people. I want to cook meals together each night and wake-up in bed with you every morning. The farm feels like home. I want a home with you Tae."

"Are you sure Kookie? You will be far from Jimin? Have you considered that?" Tae sits up straight with more focus.

"Yes, and we will make time," I say as Tae's eyes appear bright and glossy. He nods his head and pulls me into a tight hug and kisses me tenderly on my forehead. As he releases me the doorman calls and tells me Namjoon, and Jin have arrived.

We all sit in the living area talking and laughing about our Christmas holiday. It was such an amazing time of love, friendship, family and hope for the future.

We are all somehow different since that evening we met with Max Moon for that below the belt interview. It's like we've changed for the better. We are all clear about what's important. And it was on full display during our time together on Christmas. We agree that friends, family, and relationships are our priorities today.

After about fifteen minutes Namjoon shifts the conversation. "Kookie, Jin and I came up with an idea for handling the Man Moon fiasco and that scoundrel, Tommie Chen. Are you both open to hearing it?" I look over at Tae and he and says, "yes."

Namjoon then looks over to Jin who begins to explain as he pulls himself to the edge of his chair while Namjoon sits back and listens.

"We promised Moon an exclusive, so let's give him one." Tae quickly draws back his head and clearly disagrees.

"Why the fuck should we reward him. He's a dick and he'd ruin Kookie given the chance without a single thought. I don't agree with that." Tae looks over to me as I press my lips together in a straight line. I know Jin and I know there's more to come.

"Baby let's hear Jin out. I know there's more." I grab hold of his hand as he nods.

"We give him an exclusive but not the one he wants. We get ahead of the story since we know the cards he's holding. We know what he knows and where it came from. So, we give him a better story. A real story."

Tae looks puzzled as I farrow my eyebrows unsure of what Jin is talking about.

"Jin, I don'tunderstand. So, we don't go public? But we want to. Tae and I won't hide, and I told you both that." I rub my hands together and pull closer to the edge of my seat.

"Kookie, you still go public, but we do it your way, on the reunion show next week with Tae," Jin says and smiles faintly.

"Wait a minute. How does this fix the problem with the reporter?" I ask.

Namjoon leans in. "You give him a bigger story as Jin said. An honest story that cannot be disputed." Tae and I are still puzzled and look at each other.

"And what story is that Namjoon?" I probe, still feeling as if I'm in a fog.

"The story about Tommie Chen, physically and sexually harassing you," Jin says as he swallows hard and nibbles on his lower lip.

"But I thought you said Kookie would be the one harmed because Tommie Chen is a big movie star. That he would say Kookie is lying because he ended it. No, I don't want Kookie involved it that." Tae waves his hand to dismiss Jin's idea as I rub his arm.

"Tae," Jin says as he diverts his eyes to the floor. "I-I was a coward and just wanted to resolve it. I was too scared to fight and just did what this industry has taught me to do. Cover it up, keep your mouth shut and keep going. I don't believe you will be harmed. Joonie and I believe that your fans will rally around you. I also think that Max Moon then becomes Tommie's problem. It's up to Tommie to convince him not to print it. But we have two witnesses. You Tae, when you walked in on him with his creepy hands on Kookie and me after the earlier incident when Kookie told me he was putting pressure on him. I'm sorry I wasn't stronger for you Kookie." Jin covers his face with his hands as I reach across and touch his arm.

"Jin I was scared too. Had you suggested doing more I probably would not have agreed at the time. You have nothing to be sorry for," I share as Jin looks up showing me a delicate smile that is pained.

The room goes silent as Tae is blankly looking into the void of space above him as he processes what he is hearing. Namjoon then clears his throat and starts to talk.

"Also, by next week you will be the number one couple in all of Asia. Moon knows the power in that. He a fucking douche bag but he's not a fool. You are a power couple that will be connected to endorsements, fame, and privilege. Trust me, he wants to be your friend for the purpose of you not hurting him in the future. We flip this situation and Max Moon, nor Tommie Chen will see it coming."

"Yeah, I see what you mean," Tae says, as he leans forward with a sly grin as he rests his elbow on his thigh and places his fist under his chin. Tae is the nicest guy ever, but what Tommie did to me was crossing the line and Tae wants some pay back.

"Last time that shithead had the power because he caught us off guard. Now, we're in the top position. I like it," Tae says looking over to me waiting for my thoughts.

"Guys there's still one problem, the Uno fabrication. Moon knows it was a lie. How does this change things?" I share as I rub my hands up and down my thighs.

"Kookie, I think what Namjoon and Jin are saying is that you are so popular and loved that Moon would be taking a huge risk to break the story. Remember, he endorsed the show and his numbers more than doubled. Once we go public and there's a buzz around us, he wouldn't dare. But for insurance we give him the Tommie Chen story. It's huge my love."

"Okay, but I know it was a lie and I don't want to live with it. Yet I'm not sure of how to fix it," I says as I look down at my hands that are folded in my lap.

"Kookie did you know that there are lots of children that follow you as junior chefs. They look up to you as do so many others," Jin says.

"What? Junior chefs?" I mutter.

"I agree with Jin, baby." Tae rubs my back gently. "I think it would be a mistake to say you lied. You and Namjoon have worked hard and there is more to consider than I realized. You love your show, your viewers, and they love you. I say you go forward and turn the page on a new chapter.

"Like what Tae? How do we do that?" I turn to Tae eager to hear a solution.

"Kookie, you said that you want to live with me on the farm. So, I think we get a new puppy that your viewers would embrace as our dog. He'd be the first addition to our family together. How adorable is that. Me, you, Tannie, Zeus and a puppy." Tae beams with a sincere smile.

"What? Wow! I'd like that Tae," I say and lean over to hug my man.

"Now that's a great idea!" Namjoon says.

"Kookie, I know you are still thinking about the show, and I have a proposal for you," Namjoon says.

"Why don't we restructure the show? The network is willing to do anything. If you want to move the studio or do a shorter season, we make it happen in negotiations. You're on top and you get to decide. You have the power."

"No Namjoon, we have the power," I say as he nods and smiles.

I look at Tae and take his hand.

"Yes, let's make it happen. With your support and my team, I'm ready," I say looking across to Namjoon and Jin who smile and nod in agreement.

Tae and I break the news of our dating and receive tremendous support and accolades as our ratings explode. The Christmas show airs and takes the number one spot as the most watched daytime talk show of all time. Our new puppy, Tippy is an immediate sensation.

Namjoon and I sign a two-year contract, although the network tries to lock us into three years. The studio moves about 30 minutes from the farm. We also do a shorter season allowing Namjoon and I more time to work on the things in our lives that are important. For me it's more time with Tae and our little family of critters.

Once a month Tae comes on the show as a guest host and we share new pictures of our happy home life with Tannie, Zeus and Tippy. Last year we filmed the Christmas show from our lovely farm home. And yes, all our pets were under foot as Tae, and I prepared our special Christmas dinner in our beautiful kitchen.

After several months Jimin moved to our little town. His motivation wasn't me; it was his new man. He and Suga live in a beautiful home about a mile away. Every Sunday we have dinner together and alternate houses and who cooks. Suga actually assists Jimin with cooking now. However, Tae still asks Jimin where the real Suga is, and he knows he has done something to him. I simply laugh and tell Tae he has. He loved him.

In the end, Max Moon jumped at the deal Namjoon offered him. The incident of Tommie Chen harassing me never came out. I later learned that to keep Moon from going public, that reptile Tommie Chen gave Moon dirt on others in the industry and wrecked a few careers. Well, Tommie's career was black balled, and he has not worked in the industry since. Tae says he got what he deserved, and I agree with him.

"Tae drive faster! B-But please be careful!" Kookie yell in full panic.

"Kookie calm down. I'm driving fast as I can. We'll get there," I say in a shaky voice as I try to hold on to my sanity as tightly as I am griping the steering wheel.

"I'm sorry Tae but we can't be late for this. And please tell me it will be okay again." Kookie grips my lower thigh as I watch the speedometer and slowly increase my speed.

"Did you text Jimin and Suga? They will want to know." I briefly look over at Kookie hoping to distract him.

"Tae, they're on their honeymoon. But you're right. They would want to know. You should let me drive Tae and then you can text them. Pull over," Kookie says unconvincingly as I scoff.

"Hell no! You'll have us upside down in a ditch. When we get there, I'll call them when I get a moment." I can feel the tension coming off him. "Anyway, we're almost there. Just try sending Jimin a text. It will distract your mind sweetheart," I say in a calming voice hoping to put him at ease.

"Tae, everything is about the change. This is huge. I can't believe this is happening to us. I'm scared Tae," Kookie says as his voice trembles.

"My love, it will be okay. A lot will change, but not everything. Nothing will ever change the love I have for you," I say softly as he reaches over and gently squeezes my hand.

"Aww, Tae I feel the same. Nothing will ever change my love for you eithe." Kookie gives me the sweetest smile.

"Look Tae, there's the entrance. Park over there!"

We run into the building and take the elevator to the 8th floor. When we exit the elevator, we run down the hall following a sign that points us to maternity.

By the time we reach the nurses station we are both breathing heavily.

A middle-aged woman behind the desk smiles. "Mr. Kim and Mr. Jeon I suppose." All we do is nod. "Right this way. Mrs. Lee is in the delivery room, and I will show you to the waiting room."

I come to a halt. "What? I-I thought labor last for hours or even days!" My voice is slightly elevated as Kookie's mouth falls open and he grabs hold of my arm so tightly I'm sure it will soon go numb.

I follow the nurse down the hall as I drag my speechless mate with me. We walk into the waiting area and find a smiling Mr. Lee who looks very calm and collected.

He immediately rises and comes over to us. I guess he could tell by Kookie wildly bewildered look that I could use a bit of help.

"I know that look Taehyung," he says looking at Kookie. "I recall when our first child was born. I was a scrambled mess like Jungkook." He softly chuckles.

Lee Sung, and his wife Tiani have four children. Tiani is our surrogate. We meet them both about one and a half years ago. We became friends and when Kookie and I started to talk about starting a family they offered to help us. Sung and Tiani have four of their own children. We had planned to adopt and had not considered surrogacy until the offer was made. And here we are waiting for first child to be born.

We sit down and wait. I have not taken in the moment because I'm so concerned about Kookie and want to take care of him.

"Tae he will be okay. You got everything ready? Your little one is a few weeks earlier than expected," Sung says with that wide grin still plastered on his face.

Suddenly Kookie's head pops up.

"Tae did you get the car seat?" Kookie's eyes go wide as he turns to me.

"Yes Kookie. It was delivered a few days ago."

"What about diapers, formula, clothes, the crib-,"

"Kookie, baby we have it all. Breath," I comb my finger through my hair and take in a deep breathe which calms me more than Kookie.

"Jungkook, I think you are worse than me that first time," Sung says and starts to laugh, evidently finding this moment hilarious.

I look up as the doctor walks towards us.

"Are, these my two dads," he says as I feel a tingling sensation run through my limbs and I grab hold of Kookie's hand.

"Yes, they are Doctor Chung," Sung says.

"Congratulations! You have a very health daughter and Mrs. Lee is doing great. If you follow the nurse, she will take you to meet your baby." A nurse with a warm smile leads us to the delivery room. We walk silently, as we are overpowered by the moment and clinging on to each other. Sung follows us. As we enter the delivery room, we see this tiny little human swaddled in a pink blanket in a tiny crib with big open eyes taking in the world.

Sung is with his wife Tiani. Kookie looks at Tiani and whispers, "thank you," as I can only nod and smile as tears stream down my cheeks. She is the most beautiful precious little thing I've ever seen, and she is ours.

"One of you better hold that baby before I take her back," Tiani teases as Sung laughs.

I look at Kookie and he gestures to me to pick her up as tears run down his face. I raise my eyebrows in a gesture wanting to know if he is sure. He confirms with a soft nod.

Gently I slide my hand under her soft pink blanket and lift our daughter as Kookie's smile builds and moves to his eyes.

Seeing Tae hold our baby girl is far more beautiful than I could have ever imagined. I feel a loving warmth generate from my core and rush to every part of my body. I am in love with this man and now with my child. I don't have words for what I'm feeling. I just feel it and it is amazing.

Forty-eight hours later we take our daughter home. Tae and I have stayed with her for those 2 days. We have done her feedings and changes. She is so small and beautiful. As Tae slowly drives us home at a snail's pace, I sit in the back seat watching our child.

"Tae, we have to name our princess. What do you think sweetheart? I have a list of very fashionable names that I think will suit her."

"No Kookie, I don't want to hear your list I already have a name for our daughter."

"What? Tae, we must decide together. But let me hear it."

"I think we should name her Ma-Ri."

"Really, y-you want to name her after my m-mother. Tae, we don't have to do that."

"I think we should. Your mom was very special and so is our little girl. It means the best. That's fashionable enough for me. What do you think baby?" I close my eyes tightly as tears leak out.

"Tae I-I love it. I-I just wish my mother was here. She'd be so happy."

Tae and I decorated a beautiful nursey for our child and although it is wonderful, we can't imagine not having her near us, so we move her crib into our bedroom.

After Ma-Ri is asleep Tae takes my hand and leads me over to the bed and we sit.

"Kookie, I want to talk to you about something," he says apprehensively.

"Okay, Tae but your tone has me a bit uneasy." I chew on my lip and wait anxiously for him to speak.

"No baby, it's nothing bad. At least I hope you don't think so. I was thinking that now we have our daughter we should marry." I see his eyes expand. "I know we both agreed that we did not need a piece of paper to make us real or legitimate. We both refuse to be defined by societal norms and labels, but I want to call you, my husband. I want Ma-Ri to have both our names." There's an awkward pause and then slowly the corners of my lips turn up.

"Was that your way of proposing, because it could use some work."

"Yeah, that was kind of fucked up. I'm sorry baby," I move closer to him while lifting his hand and placing a kiss on the back of it.

"Tae, I was thinking the same thing. It's hard to explain but since our angel was born things have changed that I never expected.

"Like what Kookie?"

"Like seeing the value of us sharing one family name and being at home to raise our daughter. I know I said I was going to work less time but, I can't see myself not being with our child. I can't imagine leaving her for like 12-hour days. I didn't expect to feel this way, but I do. And I just might marry you, if I receive a proper proposal."

He stands and then lowers himself to one knee. Even though I know what is coming the moment is so beautiful as my stomach flutters.

"Jeon Jungkook, I love you more than I ever imagined possible. I w-want to spend the rest of my l-life with you." Tae starts shaking as he is overpowered by the intensity of his feelings. As a single tear rushes down his cheek, I gently wipe it away.

"Will you please do me the honor of becoming my husband and raising a family with me?"