I studied the guy from head to toe but could not recognize him at all.
“What’s with that look? Don’t tell me you don’t remember me?”
“Sorry, I’ve met too many people over the years. It’s hard to keep track.”
The truth was, I had zero idea who he was.
He raised an eyebrow, let out a mocking laugh, and said, “Oh, cut the act, Nicole. You chased after me for three whole years in high school.”
The moment he said that, a familiar image surfaced in my mind. Nonetheless, the man standing in front of me now was nothing like the one I remembered from back then.
“You wouldn’t happen to be Conway Hastings, would you?”
Hearing me say his name, he immediately looked smug. “After all these years, you still can’t forget about me, huh?”
Halfway through his sentence, Conway suddenly changed his tone. “But let me remind you—don’t get any ideas. I’m already engaged, thanks to the beautiful Merla. She introduced me to a Reno family heiress.”
So the former high school football star had turned into someone absolutely repulsive. Everyone knew he and Merla had been fooling around for years. Joining the Reno family was just a convenient excuse to continue their affairs.
“That gold Bugatti at the entrance? It’s hers. You could never afford one in your lifetime.”
Noting my prolonged silence, Conway patted my shoulder with his strong arm. “But there’s one way you could get behind the wheel of a Bugatti: be Merla’s chauffeur. The salary alone would be way better than whatever you’re making as a low-level employee.”
As soon as he said that, the room erupted in laughter.
I did not understand why these people needed to humiliate others just to feel superior. I swore I would never attend another reunion like this again.
Ignoring their taunts, I picked up my coat and slipped it on. “Are you done? If so, move aside. I have things to do.”
However, the men at the door did not step aside.
Merla leaned back slightly, her tone amused. “The entire restaurant, along with this entire block, belongs to the Reno family. Do you think you can just walk out whenever you want?
“You’re not leaving this place unless I say so.”
The air grew tense.
Sensing something was off, Dolly quickly stepped in to ease the situation. “Come on, we’ve all been classmates for over ten years. No need to ruin the mood over something so trivial.”
She turned to me, speaking in a softer, persuasive tone. “Nicole, it’s rare for everyone to get together. Why ruin the fun? Just sit down, have a drink, and chat for a bit.”
I knew she was trying to help, but I had a meeting to attend. People were waiting for me.
“Sorry, Dolly.” I gave her a small smile, my tone calm. “I really am the one killing the mood, but I have more important matters to handle.
“The family meeting has already started. The top leaders are waiting for me.”
