The Bad Boy's Promise

chapter 22

         ✨ The Graduation Day✨

Time had passed swiftly for Riya and Jungkook. Their relationship had blossomed into something truly beautiful—smooth, happy, and filled with cute, romantic moments. From late-night study sessions to shared meals, they had found joy in each other’s company. What had started as a teasing, tension-filled encounter had evolved into a deep, undeniable bond. Together, they had worked on their project for cosmetic chemistry, exploring compounds and perfecting formulas. Riya’s thesis, to her great delight, had received stellar grades, and the professors praised their teamwork. They weren’t just partners in academics—they had become inseparable in life.

Jungkook had always supported her, and in turn, she’d helped him focus and refine his talents. He was intelligent, determined, and despite his earlier reputation, had shown everyone that he could achieve greatness. They were, in every sense, a team—both growing and pushing each other to be better.

But today was an important day—Jungkook’s graduation. The moment was bittersweet for Riya, filled with pride for him but also sadness at the thought of the coming changes. Her stomach fluttered with nerves, but not for herself. Today, she would meet his family—his parents and his sister.

As the ceremony began, the names of graduates were being called, and Riya couldn’t help but smile as she held her phone up to record every single moment. She felt her heart swell with pride as she heard Jungkook’s name echo through the grand hall.

“Jeon Jungkook,” the announcer called, and the crowd began to cheer.

Riya’s hands trembled slightly as she zoomed in on him. He looked so confident, walking up to the stage, his graduation gown flowing behind him. The professors spoke fondly of him.

“We have seen Jungkook evolve into one of the brightest students in our department. Not only has he excelled in his studies—especially in chemistry, where he consistently topped his class—but his personal growth has been remarkable. He’s gone from someone reserved and rebellious to a young man who inspires others with his dedication, leadership, and humility.”

Riya’s heart pounded in her chest as the professors continued to praise him.

“In addition to his academic achievements, Jungkook has won gold medals in nearly every subject related to chemistry, an extraordinary accomplishment. His excellence in both theory and practical applications is unmatched. He has truly become a star of this institution.”

The applause was thunderous as Jungkook accepted his degree and medals, the gold glinting under the bright lights of the stage. Riya’s eyes glistened with unshed tears as she recorded every second, feeling an overwhelming sense of happiness and pride.

When it was time for Jungkook to give his speech, he stood tall and confident, his voice steady but filled with emotion. He thanked his professors for their support and guidance, offering words of motivation to the students in the audience.

“I wasn’t always the best student, but with the right people around me, I found my path,” Jungkook said, his eyes scanning the audience until they found Riya’s. “And speaking of the right people, I want to take a moment to thank someone very special. My girlfriend, Riya. She has been my rock, my constant support, and the reason I became the best version of myself. Without her, I wouldn’t be standing here today, and for that, I am endlessly grateful.”

The crowd cheered, clapping enthusiastically. Riya’s cheeks flushed with warmth as a wave of emotion hit her. She blinked back tears, her heart pounding at his words. He had just publicly acknowledged how much she meant to him, and it was overwhelming in the best way.

As Jungkook descended from the stage, his eyes immediately searched for Riya. When he spotted her with tears brimming in her eyes, he rushed to her, his expression filled with concern.

“Hey, what’s wrong?” he asked softly, cupping her face.

Riya shook her head, a soft laugh escaping her. “Nothing’s wrong. I’m just… so happy. You’ve done so well, and you thanking me like that was… overwhelming.”

Jungkook let out a relieved chuckle, wiping the tears from her cheeks with his thumbs. “I couldn’t have done it without you.”

At that moment, the crowd erupted into cheers again, but this time, it wasn’t just for Jungkook. It was for the two of them. Riya had become something of a ray of sunshine in their college, always smiling, always helping others. Seeing the two of them together, so in love, had everyone cheering.

“I guess we’re the college couple now,” Jungkook teased.

Riya rolled her eyes but smiled as he pulled her into a warm embrace. They stood like that for a moment, soaking in the love and joy around them.

But the moment didn’t last long before Jungkook remembered his parents. Pulling back slightly, he took her hand and led her toward where his family stood a little distance away. His parents were smiling, clearly touched by how much their son had grown, while his sister stood beside them, a playful grin on her face.

“Mom, Dad, this is Riya,” Jungkook introduced proudly. “And Riya, these are my parents, and this is my sister.”

Riya greeted them warmly, her voice soft and polite. “It’s so nice to finally meet you. Jungkook’s told me so much about you.”

His parents returned her smile, their expressions full of warmth. His mother stepped forward, gently taking Riya’s hands in hers. “Thank you for being with our son. We owe so much of his happiness to you.”

Jungkook’s father nodded in agreement. “We’re sorry we didn’t spend enough time with him when he needed us. But seeing how far he’s come, we know he’s had someone truly special by his side.”

His sister chimed in, her tone playful as she nudged Jungkook. “Seriously, Riya, how did you end up with this guy? He can be such a pain.”

Riya laughed, feeling at ease in their presence. “I guess I have a soft spot for pain,” she teased back, making Jungkook grin.

The atmosphere quickly turned lighthearted as they all laughed and joked, and soon, it was time for pictures. Riya stood back, snapping photo after photo of Jungkook with his family. But before she could step away, they pulled her into the frame for a family picture, including her.

As they all stood together, Riya couldn’t help but feel like she was part of something bigger now. She was part of his family, part of his life. And it felt right.

Later, as she and Jungkook took silly, cute couple photos together, their classmates couldn’t resist teasing them. But neither of them cared. They were too caught up in their own little world, grinning like two kids in love.

Jungkook’s heart swelled with love and pride for the woman standing beside him. Riya had changed him in ways he hadn’t thought possible. He had found someone who made life brighter, more meaningful. And as he looked at her, with her radiant smile and the way she fit so perfectly by his side, he knew there was no one else he would rather have by his side through every step of his journey.

In that moment, everything felt perfect. And no matter what challenges lay ahead, they knew they would face them together.

Hello Daydreamers🌞🌞
TMI I'll graduate in 2026 what about you guys!! Don't tell you are still school kids!!??? 😶‍🌫