My former classmates arrived in Lamborghinis, Ferraris, Maybachs, and even a gold Bugatti. Compared to their cars, mine looked downright pathetic. 

Their words were laced with mockery, barely concealed beneath thinly veiled smiles. The only one who comforted me was Dolly Stevens, the former cheerleading assistant, who even hinted that I would be driving a luxury car someday. 

Back in high school, I had top grades and was in great shape, which was why the cheer coach personally recruited me onto the team. However, my personality never quite fit in with the other girls. If it were not for Dolly’s constant messages, I would not have bothered coming tonight at all. 

I had canceled an important meeting with overseas investors just to spare two hours for this event. Alas, instead of the long-lost camaraderie I had hoped for, I was met with relentless boasting and empty chatter. 

Inside the banquet hall, champagne flowed freely, laughter filled the air. Conversations revolved around luxury cars, investments, and social status. 

I hated this atmosphere. Turning around, I prepared to leave. 

Dolly immediately reached out to stop me. “There’s nothing shameful about driving a cheap car, Nicole. Don’t be in such a rush to go.” 

I was just about to respond when a former male classmate, who had mocked me, glanced at me with a sneer.