The Class Reunion Is the Start of My Revenge

Time flew by, and on Saturday, I arrived at the Royal Hotel as per James's address.

This place usually required drivers to park; it was my first time riding an electric bike there, so I struggled to find it.

When I walked into the room, I realized I was the last to arrive.

About ten people stared at me as if I were an alien—expressions filled with disdain and mockery.

I smiled faintly and took a seat at the last empty table.

Just as I sat down, an unpleasant voice broke through the chatter, "Why is he here? I don't remember seeing his name on the list."

The speaker was a classmate adorned in flashy jewelry; her name slipped my mind.

James looked at me with confusion as if he hadn't seen any list either.

Then more voices chimed in.

"Does he even know his place?"

"Only Ethan is kind enough to let him come; otherwise, he'd be a convict."

"They say those from the mountains are simple-minded; it's bad enough he has dirty hands—he still dares to have ambitions."

"If it weren't for Ethan's mercy, he'd probably never afford a meal here or wear anything but street market clothes—what a disgrace."

...

Ethan saw that the atmosphere had soured enough and raised his glass while clearing his throat, "Come on everyone, we're all classmates here; let's keep it civil. Besides, I believe Kyle has changed."

A few overly made-up women quickly chimed in, "Ethan has such a big heart! He truly is from a prestigious family."

The flattery made me feel nauseous.