I changed into my sharpest suit and left the house.The Sterling family dinner was held at the city’s most exclusive hotel, with many business elites invited.I didn’t know any of them. Vivian Sterling had once told me I didn’t need to meet these people.But towards Adam Cole, they were utterly respectful, calling him “the CEO’s right-hand man” and fearing even the slightest disrespect.The Sterling elders all sighed, saying that Vivian Sterling had searched far and wide, only to return to Adam Cole’s side after all.Apparently, they had been the ‘it couple’ in high school.It was just that Vivian Sterling had no standing in the family back then, and Adam Cole believed they had no future, so he left the city.
It wasn’t until Adam Cole returned and became Vivian Sterling’s right-hand man that their old flame rekindled at work.Amidst everyone’s flattery, Adam Cole raised his glass to acknowledge them.Vivian Sterling walked directly to him, clinked glasses, and drank it all down.The cheers in the room nearly blew off the roof.I just watched silently. In this setting, no one would notice me.I suddenly felt I had come to humiliate myself.Vivian Sterling knew my personality: gentle, obedient, always thinking of others, never one to cause a scene or embarrass her in public.Of course, I wouldn’t.
Even if I rushed onto the stage and told everyone I’d had a three-year secret affair with Vivian Sterling, only I would be the one to look foolish.But since I was here, it would be a shame not to drink my fill of the fine wine at the banquet.Eventually, Sam helped me, stumbling and drunk, to the entrance, telling me to stay put while he went to get the car.As soon as he left, I staggered off in the opposite direction.On this holiday night, couples on the streets embraced, whispering sweet nothings.I just wanted to find a corner, cry my heart out, and then sleep for days.Suddenly, the aroma of grilled meat wafted over.Under the dim yellow lights, the BBQ joint was bustling. This place was famous for its spice, and I hadn’t been here in three whole years.As if possessed, I walked inside.
