3
Claire’s wedding was held at her father’s hotel.
This was my first time back in this city after more than five years.
Even though I had been back in society for half a year now, I still felt uneasy in crowded places.
“Thea, don’t be so tense.” Claire patted my shoulder to help me relax. I gave a dry smile and gestured for her to go ahead and stay busy.
Soon people started taking their seats. I realized this whole table was filled with my college classmates, but no one recognized me.
Sean Parker arrived with that pretty girl from the other day, causing a stir before they even sat down.
“Well well, looks like Mr. Parker is about to tie the knot soon, eh?”
He didn’t try to hide it, openly holding hands with the girl.
Then he glanced in my direction and smiled, nodding: “That’s right, when Sophie and I get married, you all have to come drink to our happiness.”
So her name was Sophie.
I lowered my head, wanting to bury myself in the dust.
All I could do was try my best to minimize my presence.
But Sophie noticed me.
6:33 PM
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Her words drew countless gazes.
Finally someone recognized me.
“Are you… Thea Brown? Is that really you?”
I nodded slightly, still not raising my face.
That person slapped their thigh.
“It really is you! But how did you end up like this? I remember you used to be so beautiful. Now you look malnourished!”
I forced a smile, not knowing how to respond.
Some of those close to Sean Parker started taking potshots:
“Well well, Miss Lin, looks like karma caught up with you, huh? We hadn’t heard a peep from you in years – we thought you died in the
pandemic or something.”
The words were unpleasant, but I could tolerate them.
After all, compared to the abuse I endured in prison, what was this?
Besides, this was Claire’s wedding. I couldn’t let her face any embarrassment.
During the meal, I just focused on eating the food in front of me.
Sean Parker sneered, serving Sophie some dishes while taking a dig at me: “Is Miss Lin not used to Chinese food after being abroad for so
long?”
I numbly finished my last bite and gently set down my chopsticks.
“Please, enjoy your meal everyone. I have to leave early!”
As I said this, my gaze floated in the air.
There was a whole table of people, yet I couldn’t find a single pair of eyes to meet.
I left in a hurry, not getting a chance to say goodbye to Claire or find an opportunity to return Sean Parker’s money.
But as soon as I walked out of the hotel, someone stopped me.
Sean Parker had somehow taken a shortcut and arrived at the entrance before me.
Without a word, he dragged me to a secluded corner. His face was dark, like storm clouds before heavy rain.
“Thea Brown, what’s your game? Didn’t you say you were going abroad to live the good life? Why are you back now?”
I was at a loss for words, staring at him helplessly.
“They’re right, this is karma for abandoning me.”
“Are you jealous? I’m rich and successful now, with a beautiful and loving girlfriend.”
“Most importantly, she loves me. She won’t casually abandon me! You’re the one who’s been abandoned!”
He hurled years of pent–up anger at me like an avalanche, crushing the air out of my lungs.
At the critical moment, Claire came running out, panting as she stood in front of me.
“Sean Parker, what, what are you doing? Do you know that Thea…”
“Claire!” I hurriedly cut her off.
6:33 PM