Chapter Sixty-seven "Phoenix in His Arms"

 

A Year’s End and Unshaken Bonds

Things had settled down at Phoenix Ridge University after the chaotic incident in the cafeteria. Kai had been taken into police custody, his family’s crimes exposed to the world.

The fear that once loomed over Jungkook and his friends had dissipated, leaving behind an air of cautious peace.

Jenny, who had once been persistent in targeting Jungkook, had surprisingly backed off. Perhaps it was because Taehyung and Jungkook had come out as brothers. But that didn’t mean she had completely given up her meddling ways.

Every now and then, she would corner Jungkook, trying to pry information about Taehyung’s supposed partner. No matter how hard she tried, though, she got nothing from him. That only seemed to fuel her suspicion that Taehyung had lied about being taken.

Meanwhile, Sia had made it her mission to visit Taehyung’s office regularly. Every other day, she would come up with different doubts—some real, most fabricated—just for the chance to spend more alone time with him.

At first, Jungkook was furious about her constant interruptions, but over time, he learned to ignore her. He knew Taehyung better than anyone. His Hyung wasn’t someone who would cheat, let alone entertain someone else’s advances.

“He’s bunnysexual,” Jungkook often told his friends with a smug grin. “No one stands a chance against me.”

Despite Jungkook’s confidence, Sia wasn’t backing down. Slowly but surely, she started spreading rumors around the university, hinting at a secret relationship between her and Professor Kim Taehyung. While most students didn’t believe her, there were always a few who were eager to cling to juicy gossip.

Jenny, on the other hand, had changed her approach. She was now trying to stay in Taehyung’s good books, acting calmer and more composed. It was clear she hadn’t entirely given up, but for now, she was playing a long game.

Jungkook sighed as he leaned back in his chair, rubbing his temples. “It’s like I’m living in a real-life drama where everyone wants to steal my man.”

His friends burst into laughter.

“Well, what do you expect?” Jimin smirked. “You’ve tied the most sought-after professor on campus with you.”

“Ignore them, Kook,” Soobin teased, patting his shoulder. “They’ll get tired eventually. Or Taehyung Hyung will finally put them in their place.”

Life in the university had returned to a steady rhythm. The year was coming to an end, which also meant one thing—exams. Jungkook and his friends were knee-deep in study sessions, spending sleepless nights buried in books and notes.

Even though they were from different academic fields, they all studied together, making sure to keep each other motivated.

For the past month, they had practically moved into the mansion with Jungkook. It was easier that way, given how intense their schedules had become.

And with Taehyung monitoring their studies, none of them dared to slack off. He was strict, but his explanations were clear, and whenever they had doubts, he was there to help them through it.

The last day of exams had finally arrived, and the exhaustion was evident on everyone’s faces. But along with the fatigue was a sense of relief.

“Just a few more hours,” Niki groaned, stretching his arms. “And then we’re free!”

“One week of freedom,” Jimin grinned. “I can already taste it.”

Jungkook smiled, glancing at his friends. After everything they had been through, this felt like the calm after the storm. A moment of peace before life threw its next challenge their way. And whatever that may be, he knew one thing for sure—he wasn’t alone in facing it.

To celebrate their hard-earned break, the group had already made plans. As soon as their exams ended, they would be heading to Busan to visit Jimin’s grandparents. The small town was known for its vast fields of fresh vegetables, and most importantly, its delicious strawberries.

After weeks of stress and sleepless nights, they were determined to escape the hustle of city life and spend a peaceful week away. They packed their bags excitedly, eager for the trip ahead.

Bidding farewell to the Kim couple, they left the mansion, not even waiting for Taehyung to return home.

Little did they know, a storm awaited them upon their return.

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