Chapter Ninety-three "Phoenix in His Arms"

 

 A New Beginning

The grand auditorium of Phoenix Ridge University buzzed with excitement. Students and faculty filled the seats, murmuring among themselves, curious about the unexpected meeting called by the administration. On the grand stage, the university’s most respected professors stood in a neat line, waiting for the event to begin.

At exactly 10 a.m., Principal Mr. Kim took the stage, his calm yet authoritative presence silencing the chatter. He smiled warmly before speaking into the microphone.

“Good morning, everyone. Today is a special day for Phoenix Ridge University, as we welcome back an important member of our family and recognize the achievements of some of our finest students. But before that, I have a major announcement to make.”

A hush fell over the auditorium, anticipation thick in the air.

“With the unanimous decision of the board, I am honored to announce that Kim Jungkook will be taking on the role of Vice President of Phoenix Ridge University.”

Gasps echoed through the hall, followed by a thunderous applause. Jungkook, sitting beside Taehyung, looked momentarily stunned before breaking into a soft smile. He stood up, his fingers instinctively tightening around Taehyung’s as he made his way onto the stage.

Taehyung watched him proudly, his heart swelling. Jungkook had come back home, and now he was stepping into a position of power, standing by his side not just as his lover but as his equal.

Jungkook took the microphone, rubbing the back of his neck sheepishly. “Uh… well, I wasn’t expecting this, but thank you. I promise to do my best and make this university even better.”

The students cheered, clearly thrilled to have him in such an important position. Mr. Kim smiled, before continuing.

“Along with this, we also have some new additions to our faculty. Our top scholars have proven themselves to be more than capable, and it is my pleasure to introduce them as assistant professors.”

The hall erupted in another round of applause as the names were called.

“Park Jimin, assistant professor under Professor Min Yoongi.”

Jimin stood up gracefully, a bright grin on his face as he bowed before taking his place beside Yoongi. The music professor smirked slightly, nudging him in welcome.

“Next, Niki, assistant professor under Professor Jung Hoseok and me Professor Kim Namjoon.”

Niki practically skipped onto the stage, her dazzling smile lighting up the room as Hoseok patted her head proudly.

“And finally, Soobin, assistant professor under Professor Kim Seokjin.”

Soobin let out a dramatic sigh before making his way forward. As soon as he reached his spot, he pouted. “Why do Niki and Jimin get their crushes as mentors, but I’m stuck with an old man?”

The entire hall burst into laughter as Jin’s scandalized gasp echoed through the mic. “OLD MAN?! I’ll have you know I’m worldwide handsome!”

Laughter filled the auditorium as Jimin and Niki tried (and failed) to stifle their giggles. Soobin continued his dramatic sulking, earning a playful slap on the back of his head from Jin. “You’re lucky I like you, kid.”

Meanwhile, amidst the chaos and celebration, Taehyung reached for Jungkook’s hand, their fingers intertwining effortlessly. They shared a knowing smile, warmth radiating between them. They had gone through so much—pain, separation, longing—but in the end, they had found their way back to each other.

This was the end of one chapter but the beginning of another—a life full of happiness, bickering, punishments, and, most importantly, love.

And as they stood together, hands intertwined, they knew—this was just the start of forever.

 

 

THE END