My New Life As Suzune Horikita (COMPLETED)

Epilogue: Reflections of A Journey

The scene opened with a grand office building towering over the bustling city, a symbol of success and ambition. At the entrance, an elegant woman in her late twenties, Kushida Kikyo, walked confidently through the polished halls, her bright smile never faltering. As the CEO’s secretary, she knew her responsibilities well, balancing her friendly disposition with the sharpness required in the business world. She reached the top floor, knocked gently on the door and entered the CEO’s office.

"Good morning, Horikita-san," she greeted cheerfully, standing by my chair. I, Suzune Horikita, now CEO of one of Japan’s largest corporations, sat facing the large windows. With a slight smile, I turned my chair to meet her gaze, acknowledging her promptness. "The meeting is about to start," she reminded me.

“Thank you, Kushida,” I nodded, and she left with a professional smile. Alone in my office, I put down my coffee mug, taking a moment to reflect on the years that had passed, from high school to here.

Memories of my friends and rivals filled my mind, each of them following their own remarkable paths. Sudo had reached his dream of becoming a professional basketball player and married Onodera, who now managed his career with dedication. They were a strong duo both in life and on the court. Ike and Shinohara climbed high ranks at a prominent company, achieving a comfortable life they both valued.

Then there was Ryuen, my eternal rival, who had founded his own corporation along with Katsuragi, Ishizaki, Ibuki, and Albert. Together, they formed a powerhouse in the industry, and we’d kept our rivalry alive, this time as companies competing for dominance. The thrill of facing Ryuen and his team again made each day a challenge I looked forward to.

Meanwhile, Sakura had found her true calling as an idol, captivating audiences with her talent. Haruka, her close friend, managed her career, and she and Akito had built a happy life together by marrying each other. Kei and Sato, both thriving as fashion models, graced magazines and runways, captivating fans everywhere. Hiyori, always drawn to the world of words, had become a successful novelist, each of her works celebrated by critics and fans alike and she won many awards for her novels.

Sakayanagi, ever ambitious, had become the chairperson of Tokyo Metropolitan Advanced Nurturing High School, guiding future generations of students. Matsushita, Nanase and Ichika, too, had returned to the school as teachers, helping shape young minds with patience and wisdom. My brother, Manabu, served as the general manager of my company, and his support remained a quiet yet invaluable force in my journey. Nagumo, now heading another top company, continued our rivalry in the business world, with Asahina loyally by his side as his secretary. And Kiruin had finally pursued her passion, becoming a renowned archaeologist exploring ancient mysteries. And everyone else were also doing great in their lives.

Thinking back on them all, I felt a rush of pride and gratitude for the friends, rivals, and allies I’d made along the way.

I was interrupted by the time, and Kushida returned, urging me toward the meeting room. Our company’s biggest partners awaited, and as I entered, I couldn’t help but smile. At the table sat Ayanokoji and Ichinose, now married and heads of their own successful corporation. Together, they were the industry’s most iconic couple, known for their brilliant strategies and unbreakable partnership. Our companies were partners like how I and Ayanokoji promised each other during highschool.

"Ayanokoji, Ichinose," I greeted, shaking their hands warmly.

Ayanokoji nodded, his familiar calm demeanor hiding a spark of pride. "It’s good to see you, Horikita."

Ichinose’s face brightened, her enthusiasm as strong as ever. "Congratulations on everything you’ve achieved, Suzune. I’m so glad we’re partners."

We exchanged a few formal words before diving into our meeting. Our companies were ranked among the top five, and we discussed strategies, the industry landscape, and the latest moves by our rivals, Ryuen’s and Nagumo’s companies. As we concluded, Ayanokoji handed me the newest novel by Hiyori, knowing how much I admired her work.

“Thank you, Ayanokoji. I’ll enjoy this,” I said, feeling a sense of nostalgia wash over me. After the meeting, we found a quiet spot to sit, forgetting our professional titles for a while.

"Remember when we’d hang out like this in high school?" Ichinose laughed, her eyes sparkling. "Those were the best days.”

I nodded, a soft smile forming. “Yes, they were.” Ayanokoji and Ichinose eventually excused themselves, leaving me to my thoughts.

Later, back in my office, I found myself alone with Kushida once again. We shared a laugh, reminiscing about old times. I teased her, just like I used to in high school, and she laughed, her brightness lighting up the room before she headed off to handle her next task.

Left alone, I gazed out of my window, the city’s skyline reflecting on the glass. With a coffee mug in hand, I smiled at my reflection, proud of the journey I’d taken.

In my past life, I’d been a simple yet cheerful otaku boy who adored Classroom of the Elite, especially Suzune Horikita, a character whose resilience, intelligence, and drive inspired me deeply. I could never have imagined that one day, I’d be given the chance to live as her, experiencing firsthand the world I’d only once seen through a screen.

Though I’d known what would come, each experience had brought its own challenges and joys. I’d faced everything from fierce competition to friendships that changed me, and each moment left an indelible mark. I was no longer the timid boy I once was; I’d become Suzune Horikita in every sense, with a lifetime of memories, achievements, and friendships I’d never forget.

As I looked out over the city, the cherry blossoms outside floated gently through the breeze, a reminder of both the past and the future. This journey had been more than I could have ever dreamed, and as I held my coffee mug, I knew I’d carry these memories—and my pride—forever.

———————THE END————————