CHAPTER 17 TO 24 : Phoenix in his arms

 

Chapter Seventeen: Shocking Revelations

Jungkook sighed as his friends fussed over him, insisting on helping him to his car. Despite his protests that he could walk just fine with a slight limp, Soobin and Jimin flanked him on either side while Niki trailed behind, keeping a watchful eye.

"You are under strict supervision now, Kookie," Niki declared, hands on her hips. "No more tripping over thin air, no more banana smoothie disasters."

Jungkook pouted. "It wasn’t my fault—"

"It was totally your fault," Soobin interrupted with a grin. "Now, come on, let’s get you home."

The black, sleek luxury car waiting at the front of the university left them all momentarily stunned. The driver, dressed in a sharp suit, immediately stepped forward to open the door for Jungkook, who waved casually as if it were an everyday occurrence—which, for him, it was.

Niki nudged Jimin in the ribs. "You’re seeing this, right? Jungkook’s got a freaking personal driver."

Jimin, still staring, nodded wordlessly. Soobin was already gaping.

Jungkook groaned. "Guys, stop acting like I just revealed I’m an alien. Get in."

As they slid into the car, the luxurious leather seats and high-tech interior made them realize just how wealthy Jungkook must be. But none of them were prepared for what awaited them at their destination.

When the car pulled up to a grand mansion, their jaws nearly hit the floor. The estate was enormous, with intricate architecture, sprawling gardens, and a driveway that looked like it could fit at least twenty more cars.

"Are we at the wrong place?" Jimin whispered, eyes wide.

Jungkook sighed. "No, this is my home. Come on."

The moment they stepped inside, they were greeted by a warm, elegant woman who gasped upon seeing Jungkook limping.

"kookie! What happened?" she rushed over, her motherly instincts in full force.

"Just a small sprain, Mumma," Jungkook reassured her.

Jimin, Niki, and Soobin stood frozen, their brains still catching up to the fact that Jungkook’s ‘Mumma’ was none other than Mrs. Kim, the Vice President of Phoenix Ridge University.

Before they could recover, a strong, authoritative voice came from across the hall.

"Jungkook, what did you do this time?"

They turned to see none other than Mr. Kim, the President of Phoenix Ridge University.

Niki audibly gasped. "Your dad is the president?!"

Jungkook winced. "Uh… surprise?"

Soobin let out a strangled noise. "We go to your house and suddenly, you’re the rich heir of our university? What else are you hiding, Kookie?!"

Jungkook scratched the back of his head awkwardly. "I mean… I did mention my Mumma and Dada before. I just never said their…. jobs."

Mrs. Kim clicked her tongue. "He always talks about you three, though. I’ve heard all about Niki’s sass, Soobin’s innocence, and Jimin’s adorable charm. It’s a pleasure to finally meet you."

The three were still too stunned to speak.

"Come on," Jungkook said quickly, leading them to the sitting room before his parents could ask too many questions. "Let’s just relax. There are snacks!"

Despite the initial shock, the delicious spread of pastries, fruit, and fresh juice helped ease the tension. As they talked and laughed, Jungkook’s parents watched fondly, though their concern for their son’s ankle didn’t go unnoticed.

Mr. Kim sighed. "Taehyung will throw a fit when he finds out. You know how he is about you getting hurt."

Soobin blinked. "Taehyung? Professor Kim Taehyung? What does he have to do with this?"

Jungkook tensed. "Nothing! He’s just… protective."

Niki raised a brow. "Kookie, you always call him ‘hyung,’ but you never explain how you two are related. You act like he's your older brother, but you never actually say it."

Jimin and Soobin exchanged glances. "Wait a second… Are you two actually—?"

Jungkook panicked. "ANYWAY! Let’s not talk about that! Eat up!"

The three friends were left confused but decided not to push—at least, not yet. But one thing was for sure… Jungkook wasn’t just some ordinary student. And they had a feeling there was a lot more to uncover.

After their little snack break, Jungkook decided to give them a tour of the mansion. Room after room left his friends speechless—lavish decor, grand chandeliers, massive libraries, and an indoor gym that looked like something out of a movie.

“This place is unreal,” Soobin murmured in awe as they passed by yet another luxurious lounge. “Kookie, do you live in a palace?”

Jungkook laughed. “Nah, it’s just home.”

But as they neared one particular hallway, Jungkook subtly changed their route, skipping a door without so much as a glance. Niki, ever observant, narrowed her eyes.

“What’s in there?” she asked suspiciously.

“Nothing important,” Jungkook said quickly, steering them away. “Let’s check out the home theatre instead!”

Jimin and Soobin exchanged glances but let it slide. They were still too overwhelmed by everything else to dig deeper. However, one thought lingered in their minds.

Jungkook was hiding something about Professor Kim. And sooner or later, they were going to find out what it was.

Just as they settled back into Jungkook’s room, a soft knock interrupted their conversation. A maid peeked inside.

"Young master, master Taehyung is looking for you."

Jungkook nearly choked on his juice. "Oh, crap."

Before he could come up with a way to handle the situation, the door swung open, revealing Taehyung standing there with their family doctor right beside him.

Jungkook cursed under his breath. There was no escaping this now.

 

Chapter Eighteen: Unwavering Authority

Jungkook barely had time to react before the door to his room swung open. His eyes widened as Taehyung stepped inside, his usual composed expression unreadable. Behind him, their family doctor followed with a medical bag in hand.

Jungkook cursed under his breath, scrambling for an excuse, but before he could say anything, Taehyung was in front of him.

Without a word, Taehyung bent down and scooped Jungkook up effortlessly, ignoring his startled yelp.

"Hyung! Put me down! I'm fine!" Jungkook protested, flailing slightly, but Taehyung’s grip was firm.

His friends stood frozen in shock. Their professor—Professor Kim, the cold and untouchable head of the Business Department—had just picked Jungkook up again like he weighed nothing and carried him to the bed. None of them had ever seen him act like this.

Jungkook’s face burned with embarrassment, but Taehyung paid him no mind as he carefully placed him on the mattress.

"Check his leg," Taehyung ordered the doctor, his voice void of any warmth.

The doctor nodded and immediately set to work. Taehyung took a step back, his sharp gaze still locked onto Jungkook. His friends, still processing the scene before them, exchanged bewildered looks.

Niki, unable to hold back any longer, finally blurted, "Professor Kim, what are you doing here?"

Taehyung didn't even spare them a glance. "I don’t recall asking for your opinions."

Soobin swallowed hard. The sheer authority in his tone sent shivers down their spines.

Jimin, trying to keep up, hesitated before cautiously asking, "Are you here because of the university? Or because of Jungkook?"

Taehyung’s jaw clenched, but he remained silent.

Jungkook, feeling the weight of the silence, tried to deflect. "Guys, don't be dramatic. He just—"

"Stay quiet," Taehyung cut in, his eyes narrowing at Jungkook. "You're already in trouble. Don't make it worse."

Jungkook gulped.

His friends had never seen him like this—so submissive in front of Taehyung. It was strange. The dynamic between them wasn’t just a student and professor thing. It was something much deeper.

The doctor finished checking Jungkook's ankle and nodded. "It's just a minor sprain. He needs rest, and I'll prescribe a cream and painkillers. Make sure he applies the cream twice a day and avoids putting too much pressure on his foot."

Taehyung took the medicine from the doctor, handing Jungkook the painkillers. "Take these."

Jungkook scrunched his nose. "I don’t want them."

Before Taehyung could respond, Mrs. Kim entered the room, looking worried. "What’s going on—"

Taehyung immediately turned to her. "Mom, not this time."

Jungkook’s friends gasped.

Niki nearly choked on air. "D-Did he just call her mom?!"

Jungkook paled, but before he could explain, Taehyung smoothly took advantage of his distraction and tricked him into taking the medicine, shoving it into his mouth with a glass of water.

Jungkook coughed dramatically, making a gagging face. "Hyung! That was dirty!"

Taehyung smirked. "You’re worse than a child."

Jungkook groaned, sulking. But when Taehyung pulled out the cream and began applying it to his ankle, his pout deepened.

"No ice cream for a week," Taehyung stated firmly.

Jungkook gasped as if his entire world had collapsed. "You can’t do that!"

Mrs. Kim chuckled softly while Taehyung merely shrugged. "Watch me."

Jungkook turned to his mother in betrayal. "Mumma, save me!"

His friends, still in shock over everything, could only watch in stunned silence. There was no doubt about it—Jungkook and Professor Taehyung had a connection far deeper than what they had assumed.

Realizing the growing tension, Jungkook sighed and decided to finally explain, "Alright, listen. Taehyung -hyung isn’t just some professor I know. He’s... well, he’s the reason I’m even in this mansion today."

Niki, Soobin, and Jimin exchanged confused glances. "Wait, what do you mean?" Soobin asked hesitantly.

Jungkook sighed, running a hand through his hair. "He's more than just my hyung. He's the person who’s been looking out for me for years now."

Niki frowned. "So... you're not really brothers?"

Jungkook hesitated, looking anywhere but at them. "It's... complicated. But what matters is, he’s family. That’s all you guys need to know."

Jimin nodded slowly, trying to process it. "So, that’s why you’re so possessive over him."

Jungkook scowled. "I am not possessive."

Soobin raised a brow. "You threatened me when I said I liked him."

"That’s different!" Jungkook huffed. "You don’t get to have a crush on my hyung!"

Niki snorted. "Well, this explains a lot."

Taehyung sighed, rubbing his temples. "If you three are done overanalyzing things, get out. Jungkook needs to rest."

Jungkook pouted but didn’t argue, watching as his friends slowly stood, still looking at him like he was an unsolved mystery.

As they left, Soobin mumbled, "Only if we knew the full truth..."

Jungkook sighed. Yeah. Only if you knew.

 

 

 

Chapter Nineteen: The Ice Cream Betrayal

Jungkook’s friends left the mansion still trying to process everything they had learned. Even as they walked out the grand gates, their minds were spinning with the shocking realization that Jungkook, their chaotic and mischievous friend, was not only ridiculously rich but also deeply connected to none other than the cold and untouchable Professor Kim Taehyung.

“He called the vice president ‘momma’ and the president ‘dada,’” Soobin mumbled, his face still frozen in disbelief. “I… I need a moment.”

“Taehyung hyung, huh?” Niki mused, rubbing her temples as if trying to put the pieces together. “This brat is seriously living in luxury while we struggle like peasants.”

Jimin just shook his head, letting out a soft chuckle. “We’ll get the truth out of him tomorrow.”

---

The next day at the university cafeteria, Jungkook sat comfortably with his banana smoothie, a lazy smirk on his lips, while his friends eagerly leaned in, eyes burning with curiosity.

“Spill it,” Niki demanded, slamming her hands on the table.

Jungkook sighed dramatically, as if he were burdened by the weight of his own grandeur. “Fine, fine,” he said, swirling his straw in his smoothie. “It happened years ago. Hyungie found me on a rainy night. I was lost, alone, and cold. He took me in, and ever since then, he and my mumma-dada pamper me like their own.”

A long silence stretched between them before Soobin, blinking rapidly, hesitantly asked, “So… you’re adopted?”

Jungkook didn’t say anything. Instead, he slowly took a sip from his smoothie, his dark eyes glinting with amusement as he simply shrugged. The smugness radiating from him was infuriating.

Niki groaned, throwing her head back. “You’re so annoying.”

Jimin nudged Jungkook’s shoulder with a knowing grin. “Since you’re a rich and pampered prince, you should treat us.”

Jungkook rolled his eyes but grinned. “Fine. Ice cream for everyone!”

His friends erupted in cheers, clapping their hands like children. Jungkook stood up, adjusting his sleeves with a victorious air. “And I’ll have one too,” he added mischievously, his voice dropping into a conspiratorial whisper. “Hyungie banned me from eating ice cream, but he’s not here now.”

Feeling like a mastermind outplaying fate, Jungkook strutted towards the counter, a confident smirk tugging at his lips. He could already taste the sweet, cold delight melting on his tongue. But as his eyes scanned the menu board, his smirk faded. His jaw went slack.

Ice cream—gone.

Not just ice cream, but every single dish that contained even a trace of it.

Jungkook blinked. His heart stuttered. His fingers twitched as he pointed at the board, his voice coming out in a horrified whisper. “Where… where is the ice cream?”

The cafeteria worker, looking mildly amused, simply shrugged. “Removed from the menu by direct order.”

Jungkook’s lips parted in sheer betrayal. “No…” His voice trembled as he took a step back. “No, no, no. This can’t be happening.”

His friends, watching from their seats, burst into uncontrollable laughter, nearly doubling over in amusement at his sheer devastation.

“No way!” Soobin wheezed, clutching his stomach. “Did your hyung ban ice cream from the whole cafeteria just to stop you?!”

Jungkook turned back to them, looking like a man who had just lost everything. “He wouldn’t dare…”

And then, the final blow came.

Taehyung walked past with his usual air of authority, his tailored suit pristine, his face a picture of indifference. As he passed by Jungkook, he nonchalantly picked up a scoop of ice cream from a plate nearby, brought the spoon to his lips, and took a slow, deliberate bite.

Jungkook’s entire world shattered.

His lips trembled as he watched, helpless and betrayed. The ice cream that should have been his was now melting on his hyung’s tongue. The audacity.

Just before disappearing through the exit, Taehyung’s lips curled ever so slightly—a barely-there smirk, almost as if he knew exactly what he had done.

Jungkook’s mouth fell open. A strangled sound left his throat.

His friends exploded into a fit of hysterics, tears forming in their eyes as they laughed uncontrollably.

“I hate him,” Jungkook muttered under his breath, crossing his arms in a full sulk, his cheeks puffed out like an offended chipmunk.

“No, you don’t,” Niki teased between laughs. “You’re just mad because he won.”

Jungkook groaned, flopping onto the table dramatically, his voice muffled. “My own hyung betrayed me.”

Jimin patted his back, still laughing. “This is the best day ever.”

But just as Jungkook was about to accept defeat, a mischievous glint flickered in his eyes. He sniffled dramatically, then, with expertly timed tears filling his big doe eyes, he pulled out his phone and called someone.

“Mumma,” he whined, voice quivering, “Hyungie is bullying me.”

Within moments, a cafeteria worker approached their table, placing a beautifully decorated plate of ice cream in front of Jungkook. His teary act instantly faded as he grinned triumphantly at his friends. “See? I get what I want.”

With a victorious chuckle, he took a spoonful and popped it into his mouth—only to freeze in place. His expression twisted, his entire body rejecting the bite as he struggled to swallow.

Confused, Soobin took a small bite himself—only to burst into laughter. “It’s salty! And spicy! This isn’t sweet at all!”

The entire table erupted in laughter, clapping their hands as they praised Taehyung’s brain for outsmarting Jungkook yet again. Meanwhile, Jungkook sat there, betrayed twice in a single day, sulking as his so-called friends reveled in his misery.

He was never going to win against his hyung, was he?

Chapter Twenty: Midnight Cuddles and Sweet Apologies

Jungkook dragged himself home that evening, still sulking from the ultimate betrayal at the cafeteria. He barely acknowledged anyone as he stepped inside the grand mansion, his mood visibly sour. Mrs. Kim noticed his long face and immediately approached him with a soft smile.

"Oh, my poor baby," she cooed, ruffling his hair. "Did something happen today?"

Jungkook let out a dramatic sigh, crossing his arms. "Hyungie is a meanie," he mumbled.

Mrs. Kim chuckled, already guessing that Taehyung was behind Jungkook’s miserable state. "Come now, let’s not stay upset. Why don’t you focus on your studies, and we’ll have a nice dinner later?"

Jungkook only grumbled but nodded, making his way to his study room. He tried to bury himself in books, but the lingering thoughts of ice cream—no, betrayal—kept distracting him.

By the time dinner came around, he still wasn’t in the mood to talk. He poked at his food half-heartedly, refusing to engage in conversation. His parents exchanged amused glances but said nothing, letting him sulk in peace. After finishing his meal, he excused himself and trudged up to his room, eager to drown himself in his studies once more.

As he flipped through his notes, the quiet rhythm of his pen against paper was suddenly interrupted by a soft knock on the door.

Jungkook furrowed his brows. Everyone knew his door was never locked. "Who is it?" he called out, still not getting up.

There was no answer.

Before he could react, the door swung open, and in an instant, he was lifted off the ground.

"Yah! Put me down!" he protested, wriggling in Taehyung’s firm grip.

But Taehyung didn’t say a word. He simply carried Jungkook with ease, making his way to his own room. Jungkook pouted, still mad, but it was hard to ignore the warmth and comfort of his hyung’s presenc.

Taehyung finally placed Jungkook on the bed before disappearing for a moment. When he returned, Jungkook refused to look at him, turning his face away stubbornly.

A few seconds later, he felt something cold press against his lips. A familiar scent wafted through the air, and Jungkook’s eyes snapped open.

A spoonful of ice cream was right in front of his face.

His resolve crumbled instantly. Without wasting a second, he leaned forward and ate the spoonful, his expression lighting up at the familiar sweet taste. Taehyung smirked but said nothing as he continued feeding him bite after bite.

"How’s your studying going?" Taehyung finally asked, scooping up another spoonful.

"Good," Jungkook muttered between bites. "Had a little trouble with one topic, though."

"Which one?"

"Business law," Jungkook admitted. "The case studies are confusing."

Taehyung hummed thoughtfully. "I’ll go over it with you tomorrow. You should have asked earlier."

Jungkook just nodded, too focused on finishing the ice cream to argue. When the bowl was finally empty, he let out a satisfied sigh, his earlier frustration melting away like the dessert he had just devoured.

"By the way," Taehyung said casually, "avoid Professor Jenny. If she asks about us, just tell her we’re cousins. It’ll stop unnecessary gossip."

Jungkook frowned but nodded, knowing it was the easiest way to avoid trouble.

Just as he was about to get up and return to his room, Taehyung pulled him down into his embrace, wrapping his arms around him securely. Jungkook blinked in surprise before a slow smile spread across his lips.

Taehyung’s cuddles were the best.

The warmth, the safety, the way his heart calmed down instantly—he loved it. He buried his face into his Hyung’s chest, letting himself relax for the first time that day.

Taehyung didn’t say anything; he just stroked Jungkook’s hair gently, making a silent promise that he was always there.

Within minutes, Jungkook drifted off to sleep, the ice cream betrayal long forgotten, replaced by the comforting presence of the one person he trusted the most.

---

The next morning, Jungkook stirred awake, feeling something firm yet warm beneath him. Blinking sleepily, he realized he was still curled up against his hyung, his head resting on his Hyung’s chest. The steady rise and fall of Taehyung’s breathing was soothing, and Jungkook found himself reluctant to move.

As he shifted slightly, he felt Taehyung’s hand instinctively tighten around his waist, pulling him closer. Jungkook stifled a giggle, realizing that even in his sleep, his Hyung was impossibly possessive.

He tilted his head up slightly, peering at Taehyung’s sleeping face. The usual cold, calculating expression was gone, replaced by serene stillness. His sharp features looked softer, his eyelashes casting delicate shadows on his cheeks. He looked… peaceful.

Jungkook smiled fondly. He rarely got to see his hyung like this—unguarded, at ease.

He sighed contentedly before whispering, "You’re not that bad, hyungie."

Carefully, he tried to pry himself away, but the moment he moved, Taehyung’s eyes fluttered open, his grip tightening again. Jungkook froze.

"Where do you think you’re going?" Taehyung’s morning voice was deep, husky, sending a shiver down Jungkook’s spine.

"Uh… bathroom?" Jungkook tried, only for Taehyung to pull him back down, trapping him once again.

Taehyung let out a hum of approval, his voice still laced with sleep. "Five more minutes."

Jungkook huffed but couldn’t hide the smile tugging at his lips. "You big baby."

But he didn’t resist.

Because honestly? He didn’t mind staying like this a little longer.

 

 

Chapter Twenty-One: A Chaotic Morning

Jungkook jolted awake, eyes snapping open as the realization hit him like a freight train.

He was late.

Not just a little late—he was an hour late.

"Shit! Shit! Shit!" he cursed, scrambling out of bed, his blankets tangling around his legs as he hopped toward the bathroom.

How did this happen?! Oh, right. Five more minutes. That traitorous, deceitful voice had betrayed him.

Skipping breakfast, he shoved his arms into his jacket, grabbed his bag, and sprinted out of the mansion like a madman. The drive to campus felt both too short and too long at the same time, his nerves twisting in panic. As soon as the car stopped, he practically threw himself out, dashing through the university grounds at full speed.

Students turned to look, murmuring among themselves as Jungkook weaved through the crowd, his bag bouncing against his back. His heart pounded as he neared the lecture hall, his mind screaming at him to stop running before it's too late—but his feet had other plans.

He reached the doors and—

SLAM!

The heavy doors flew open, echoing across the silent hall. Jungkook nearly tripped over his own feet, arms flailing wildly as he desperately tried to catch himself.

His hands found purchase on something—

No.

Not something.

Someone.

The murmurs turned into dead silence as Jungkook’s brain sluggishly processed what just happened.

He was holding onto a firm arm. A very familiar firm arm.

Slowly, almost fearfully, he looked up—and there stood Professor Kim, staring down at him with an unreadable expression.

Jungkook’s breath caught in his throat. A sheepish grin twitched at the corner of his lips as he hurriedly let go, stepping back as fast as possible.

"I-I'm so sorry, Professor!" he blurted, bowing so quickly and repeatedly that he probably looked like a malfunctioning machine. "I overslept, and I was running, and I didn’t mean to, I swear! It was an accident!"

The students in the lecture hall were frozen, their eyes bouncing between the two of them like they were watching a live drama unfold. Some were holding their breath. Some were ready to witness another legendary showdown. Some were just utterly shocked that Jungkook was still standing after touching Professor Kim.

A thick tension filled the air.

Jungkook shut his eyes, bracing himself for the scolding of his life.

But it never came.

Instead, Taehyung let out a long sigh, pinching the bridge of his nose before levelling Jungkook with a piercing stare. "Take your seat."

Jungkook didn’t need to be told twice. He bolted to the nearest empty seat, sitting so straight and still that he looked like a model student.

The rest of the lecture hall, however, was buzzing in silence. Eyes darted back and forth, waiting for more. Waiting for the explosion that never came.

Jungkook swallowed hard, stealing a quick glance at his professor, who had already turned back to the lesson as if nothing had happened.

But Jungkook could see it.

That tiny smirk playing at the edge of Taehyung’s lips.

Oh, he was so dead.

---

As the class neared its end, Jungkook began to relax, thinking he had miraculously escaped the worst.

Until Taehyung’s deep voice rang out.

"Kim Jungkook, two hours of detention after university."

Jungkook's mouth fell open. "What?! Noooooooooo!!!!"

All eyes were on him again. Some students barely contained their laughter, while others waited to see if Jungkook dared to argue.

Jungkook whined like a child, his lower lip jutting out. "Hyung— I mean, Professor Kim, please! That’s too long!"

Taehyung’s eyes darkened slightly, his voice firm. "Grow up, Jungkook. If you want to pursue your dreams seriously, start acting like it."

A heavy silence fell over the room.

Jungkook felt his face heat up, embarrassment creeping up his neck as his classmates stared at him, some in shock, others in amusement.

He groaned, slumping in his seat, muttering curses under his breath.

Yup.

He was so dead.

Chapter Twenty-Two: The Hidden Gem

Jungkook dragged his feet toward the locker room, still sulking from his unexpected detention. His mind replayed the moment over and over again— Taehyung’s words cutting through him like a blade. Grow up, Jungkook.

He groaned. Hyung is so mean.

Niki skipped beside him, barely holding in her laughter. "Oh, come on, Kookie! It’s just detention, not a death sentence."

Jungkook shot her a look. "Easy for you to say. You’re not the one being publicly humiliated!"

Niki smirked. "I mean, you did barge into the lecture hall like an action hero and grabbed Professor Kim’s arm like he was your long-lost lover."

Jungkook turned red. "I DID NOT—"

"Shhhh," she pressed a finger to his lips. "Let me live in this moment a little longer."

Jungkook groaned, shoving open his locker and pulling out his sports kit. With a sigh, he grabbed his sleeveless vest and shorts, changing into them quickly.

The moment he stepped out of the locker room, the air in the gymnasium shifted.

Gasps.

Whispers.

Some girl even dropped her water bottle.

Jungkook frowned in confusion. What the hell is going on?

Unbeknownst to him, the sight of him in a loose, sleeveless vest and fitted shorts had sent a shockwave through the students. His usually baggy outfits did nothing to highlight his well-built, toned physique, but now—

Damn.

His biceps flexed with each movement, his broad shoulders effortlessly carrying the weight of attention thrown his way. His sharp jawline and that natural pout only made matters worse.

The hidden gem had been revealed.

Niki grinned like a devil, nudging his side. "Ohhh, look at them drooling, Kookie. I knew you had muscles under all that fabric! But wow, even I wasn’t prepared for this masterpiece."

Jungkook rolled his eyes. "Can you stop being dramatic for five minutes?"

"Nope. And neither can they." She gestured around.

Jungkook turned—and sure enough, countless eyes were glued to him, some girls blatantly staring, some guys nodding in impressed acknowledgment. A few students subtly whispered among themselves, while others just stood there, starstruck.

Jungkook cleared his throat, trying to shake off the attention. "Let’s just play, okay?"

The coach blew his whistle, signaling the start of basketball practice. Jungkook picked up the ball, spinning it on his finger before smoothly dribbling it down the court.

The moment the game began, any remaining skepticism about his athletic abilities vanished. Jungkook was fast—no, lightning-fast. His reflexes were sharp, his movements smooth, and his shots? Deadly accurate. He moved with an effortless grace that had the audience completely captivated.

Three-pointer—swish.

A quick steal—effortless.

A dunk—perfection.

By the time the game ended, Jungkook was drenched in sweat, but instead of exhaustion, there was a victorious smirk on his lips. He had dominated the court, and the cheers around him proved it.

"Oh my god, he’s amazing!"

"How is he this good?!"

"And he’s HOT?! Life is so unfair."

Niki burst into laughter, leaning on Jungkook’s shoulder. "Looks like you just gained a whole army of admirers, basketball prince."

Jungkook groaned. "Great. That’s exactly what I needed."

She wiggled her brows. "Who knew my bestie was hiding all of this under those oversized hoodies? Damn, Jungkook, if I weren’t your friend, I’d be simping for you too."

Jungkook shoved her away playfully. "Shut up!"

She winked. "Never!"

As Jungkook wiped his face with a towel, he couldn't shake off the feeling that his peaceful campus life was about to become a whole lot more chaotic.

---

Later, in the cafeteria, Jungkook and his friends gathered around their usual table, laughing and eating as they rewatched some of the basketball highlights on their phones. Just as Jungkook was about to take a bite of his food, Kai casually slid into a seat beside him.

"Hey, Jungkook," Kai greeted, smirking.

Jungkook glanced up. "Oh, hey, Kai."

Niki leaned forward. "You heard about our golden boy’s new fan club?"

Kai chuckled. "Oh, I did more than hear about it. The whole campus is going crazy. Pictures of Jungkook are spreading like wildfire."

Jungkook groaned, dropping his head onto the table. "Why me?"

Kai smirked. "I was thinking of joining the basketball team too."

Jungkook lifted his head. "Huh?"

Kai shrugged nonchalantly. "I mean, it’s a great way to stay active... and, you know, stay close to certain people."

Niki waggled her brows. "Oooooh, someone's got a hidden agenda."

Before Jungkook could react, a sudden presence beside their table made them pause. A girl, seemingly mustering all her courage, stepped forward. She clutched her hands together and, in a loud, clear voice, declared—

"Kim Jungkook, I like you! Please go out with me!"

Silence.

Utter, absolute silence fell over the cafeteria. Students at nearby tables froze. Some turned their heads so fast it was a miracle they didn’t get whiplash. A few gasps echoed through the corridor, and suddenly, the whole cafeteria felt like a live drama set.

Jungkook, in the middle of stuffing food into his mouth, choked.

Hard.

His eyes widened as he coughed, trying to swallow but failing miserably. Niki smacked his back, but her laughter was barely contained. Jungkook’s ears turned scarlet.

Kai’s lips curled into an amused smirk as he leaned back in his chair, waiting for the disaster to unfold.

Jungkook, still half-coughing, glanced at the girl, whose face was burning with nervous determination. The cafeteria remained silent, watching, waiting.

Niki, at this point, was dying from the sheer awkwardness of it all while Soobin and Jimin where speechless. "Oh my god, Jungkook, say something!"

Jungkook gulped down some water, his face still a furious shade of red. "Uhhh... I—"

And just like that, chaos erupted.

Chapter Twenty-Three: Detention Surprise

Jungkook somehow managed to refuse the girl's sudden confession without choking on his own words, but it was a close call. His friends patted him on the back as they walked away, laughing at his still-red ears. The rest of the classes went by uneventfully, though he could still feel lingering stares and hushed whispers every time he passed through the corridors.

By the time the last bell rang, Jungkook let out a dramatic sigh, dreading the next part of his day—detention.

"You know," Niki said, draping an arm around his shoulders, "you don’t have to go alone."

Soobin nodded. "Yeah, detention staff is on leave, right? So technically, no one is monitoring you."

Jimin smirked. "Exactly. Just sign in, sit for a few minutes, and then we bounce. Easy."

Jungkook blinked at them, then grinned. "You guys are geniuses."

They entered the detention room, chuckling amongst themselves as Jungkook strolled up to the sign-in sheet, scribbled his name, and turned back to his friends. "Alright, let’s wait a few minutes, and then—"

The door creaked open.

A heavy silence fell over the room.

Jungkook’s heart sank.

There, standing in the doorway with a book in hand, was none other than Professor Kim. His expression was blank, unreadable—but the small smirk tugging at his lips was more than enough to let them know their plan had been thoroughly crushed before it even began.

Jungkook gulped.

His friends practically froze in their seats, their earlier confidence evaporating like mist in the sun. Niki leaned toward Soobin and whispered, "Is he lucky or unlucky?"

Soobin swallowed. "I... I can’t tell anymore."

Without a word, Taehyung strolled toward Jungkook, stopping directly in front of him. His piercing gaze was enough to make Jungkook fidget uncomfortably.

Then, without warning, he grabbed Jungkook’s ear and pulled.

"OW, HYUNG!" Jungkook yelped, squirming under his grip. "Let go!"

"Brat," Taehyung scolded, voice cool but firm. "Did you really think you could fool me? Signing in and sneaking out? Is that what you’ve been reduced to now?" He finally let go of Jungkook’s ear, only to flick his forehead instead.

Jungkook rubbed his forehead, pouting. "I was just—"

"No excuses," Taehyung interrupted, placing the book on the desk. "Since you’re here, you might as well use this time to actually study. Didn’t you say there was a topic you were struggling with?"

Jungkook stiffened. Damn it.

His friends exchanged glances, quickly retreating to the last row of desks, sitting as quietly as possible. None of them wanted to be caught in the Devil’s direct line of sight.

Taehyung pulled a chair and sat down beside Jungkook, flipping through the pages. "We’re going to go over the material again, and this time, you will understand it."

Jungkook groaned, slumping forward. "Hyuuung—"

Taehyung shot him a sharp look. "Unless you want another two days of detention?"

Jungkook immediately straightened up. "...Continue."

Niki nudged Soobin and whispered, "Yeah, definitely can’t tell if he’s lucky or unlucky."

Jimin grinned. "I’m just here for the free entertainment."

As Taehyung began explaining the topic in a firm but patient tone, Jungkook let out a defeated sigh. This was not how he had planned for his detention to go.

Hours passed, and by the time the classroom clock struck 8 PM, Jungkook could barely keep his head up. Wasn’t detention only supposed to be two hours? Even his friends had long given up on their escape plan and were actually studying—not out of pure will, but out of fear of catching his hyung’s attention.

Then, suddenly, Taehyung’s phone rang.

Jungkook, desperate for an escape, snatched the phone before Taehyung could answer and immediately put it on speaker.

"Taehyung, my baby bunny is not home yet," came Mrs. Kim’s worried voice through the speaker.

Jungkook gasped dramatically, clutching his chest. "Mumma! Your baby bunny is caught in the devil’s claws! Save me!"

Taehyung shot him a glare, but before he could snatch the phone back, Mrs. Kim’s voice turned firm. " Taehyung, bring my baby Kookie home. Now."

Jungkook grinned victoriously. His friends struggled to contain their laughter as Taehyung pinched the bridge of his nose, sighing. "Fine. We’re coming."

As the call ended, Jungkook beamed at his friends. "See? My mom’s got my back."

Jimin smirked. "Yeah, but now you have to survive the car ride with him. I am sure your driver is gone by now."

Jungkook blinked, then turned to look at his hyung.

The professor’s small smirk was back.

Jungkook gulped. Oh no.

Jungkook, feeling a little guilty for keeping his friends out late, turned to them and said, "Hey, since it's already late because of me… why don’t you guys just stay over at my house?"

Niki's eyes widened. "Are you serious?! A sleepover at the prince's mansion? Hell yes!"

Soobin and Jimin exchanged excited glances before nodding eagerly.

Taehyung sighed, already knowing what was coming. "Fine. But don’t make a mess. And no staying up all night."

Jungkook smirked. "No promises, Hyungie."

As they left the classroom, his friends still buzzing with excitement over their unexpected invite, Jungkook couldn't help but grin. Maybe detention hadn't been all bad after all.

 

 

 

Chapter Twenty-Four: Sleepover Surprise

As they approached the staff's private parking lot, Jungkook’s friends were left speechless at the sight of the Professor’s sleek, luxury car. It was the kind of vehicle they had only seen in high-end magazines or celebrity photoshoots.

“Wait… this is his car?” Soobin whispered, eyes wide in disbelief.

Niki nodded slowly. “No wonder they call him ‘Professor Rich and Cold.’”

Jungkook rolled his eyes at their reactions before slipping into the passenger seat. Taehyung got into the driver’s seat with his usual composed elegance, and the three friends scrambled into the back, still processing the sheer wealth on display.

The ride was filled with chatter, mostly led by Jungkook, who was already planning their sleepover activities. “Okay, first, we raid the kitchen for snacks. Then, we play games in the entertainment room. After that, we could watch a movie in the home theater—”

“You have a home theater?!” Jimin gasped, cutting him off.

Jungkook smirked. “Of course.”

“Of course,” Soobin mumbled, shaking his head. “Rich people.”

As the car pulled up to the grand mansion, even though they had been there once, the sight still left them in awe. The magnificent structure stood tall under the night sky, its lights casting a warm glow over the driveway.

“This place still doesn’t feel real,” Niki muttered as they stepped inside.

A butler greeted them politely, and as they walked further in, they were welcomed by none other than Mrs. Kim herself. She smiled warmly at them. “Welcome back, kids. Make yourselves comfortable.”

Jungkook beamed. “Mumma, I brought them for a sleepover.”

She chuckled, patting his head. “I figured as much. Have fun, but don’t stay up too late.”

They made their way to Jungkook’s room, freshening up and changing into some of Jungkook’s clothes. Though the oversized shirts and comfy sweatpants were casual, they were undeniably high-quality designer pieces.

They lounged around, talking about everything and nothing, their laughter echoing through the grand hallways. They were so engrossed in their conversations that they barely noticed the time passing until a maid knocked on the door.

“Master Jungkook, dinner is ready.”

Excited, they hurried to the dining hall. But as soon as they entered, their jaws nearly hit the floor. There, already seated at the table, was Taehyung—no longer in his usual formal professor attire but in casual clothes. A simple white tee hugged his frame perfectly, paired with grey pajama pants. Even without effort, he looked like he had just stepped out of a fashion magazine.

Jimin nudged Soobin. “How is this man effortlessly a model?” he whispered.

Niki nodded in agreement. “It’s almost unfair.”

Jungkook, however, had no time to admire his hyung’s visuals. He was too busy loading his plate with food, humming in satisfaction at the delicious spread before him. His friends followed suit, taking their first bites and immediately melting at the taste.

“This is amazing,” Soobin mumbled between bites.

Jimin nodded. “I could get used to this.”

However, Jungkook’s moment of bliss was short-lived when Taehyung picked up a spoonful of vegetables and held it out to him.

“Eat this,” Taehyung ordered, his tone leaving no room for argument.

Jungkook immediately frowned, leaning away. “Hyung, no.”

“Yes.”

“No.”

“Yes.”

“No!” Jungkook crossed his arms stubbornly, but Taehyung’s sharp gaze made him gulp.

Without another word, Taehyung leaned forward and popped the spoonful into Jungkook’s mouth, catching him off guard. Jungkook’s eyes widened in betrayal as he chewed reluctantly, scrunching his nose at the taste. His friends, meanwhile, were trying their hardest not to burst into laughter.

“Good boy,” Taehyung said smugly, taking a sip of his drink.

Jungkook huffed, glaring at his hyung while the others whispered amongst themselves.

“So… is he lucky or unlucky?” Niki asked, stifling a laugh.

“Hard to tell,” Jimin whispered back.

Mrs. Kim chuckled softly, watching the playful dynamic unfold. “You two never change.”

After dinner, the group retreated to Jungkook’s massive entertainment room. The walls were lined with shelves filled with games, and the enormous screen was perfect for movies. They started with a few rounds of gaming, Jimin proving to be the most competitive while Soobin and Niki yelled at each other over losing. Jungkook, still sulking about the vegetable incident, pouted as his hyung casually destroyed him in every match.

“I swear you’re cheating,” Jungkook muttered, crossing his arms.

“Or maybe I’m just better,” Taehyung said with a smirk, ruffling Jungkook’s hair.

Niki nudged Jimin. “They’re practically married.”

Jimin snickered. “Right?”

Later, they settled in the home theater with a selection of snacks. Jungkook had curled up under a blanket, half-listening as his friends debated which movie to watch. In the end, they settled on an action movie, though halfway through, Jimin and Soobin were the only ones paying attention. Niki was scrolling through her phone, and Jungkook was leaning against a large pillow, blinking sleepily.

Meanwhile, Taehyung had finished his work in his home office and decided to check on them. Entering the home theatre, he found a hilarious scene—Jungkook’s head lolling to the side, completely passed out, while the others were engrossed in the movie. He sighed, shaking his head before signalling a house help to show the others to their rooms for the night.

Then, without hesitation, he walked over and picked up Jungkook effortlessly. The younger stirred slightly but didn’t wake up, instinctively curling into Taehyung’s warmth.

Jimin, Soobin, and Niki watched in stunned silence as Taehyung once again carried Jungkook away, his usual stoic expression softening ever so slightly.

Soobin shook his head. “He’s so pampered.”

Jimin chuckled. “I think we finally have our answer. Lucky.”

Niki nodded. “Definitely lucky.”

Mrs. Kim came to check the kids and watched them pass with an amused smile. “Some things never change.”

The sleepover ended with laughter, warmth, and a growing understanding among Jungkook’s friends that there was much more to his relationship with their Professor than they had ever realized. And, perhaps, they had only scratched the surface of the mystery that was their friend’s life.

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