In another life, I wouldn’t even look twice at their clothing, expensive bags, or even the artwork. I had been the same as them, and all the stuff money could buy, which I had enjoyed, had never seemed like a privilege. It had been… common.

But after my life had been destroyed and I was forced to work and struggle, all of this just seemed over-the-top. Distasteful. Too much.

Is this truly for charity?

“It’s more like a fashion show than a charity event,” Warren said from behind me, his tone conveying that he wasn’t that keen on this charity either.

Rich as he was, he was sure critical of people in his same circle.

I paused as Dominic walked us by some statues, all of them depicting the same women but in various different poses. In all of them, agony was clear on her face, and the tracks carved into her face looked more like open wounds than tears.

Breathtaking.

I couldn’t force my lungs to move. I was wholly captivated. But it seemed like I was the only one.

“Oh, don’t be so uptight,” Dominic said and sent Warren a look. “It’s not that different from that auction of yours. At least mine helps others. Yours just lines your own pockets.”

“I know a tax deduction when I see one,” Warren muttered, venom in his tone.

I looked at both of them, my brow furrowing. They were standing close, but there was a slight frown on their faces.

Was this… a friendship? It felt weird and slightly sour between them, but Warren didn’t seem to shower Dominic with the same coldness he did others.

Including me.

He was almost… playful?

“You’re not part of the auction?” I asked.

Dominic’s eyebrows raised before he let out a warm laugh. Warren frowned, already knowing what was to come.

“God, no,” he said with a chuckle. “I’m an artist, Addison. I have more fulfilling things to do with my money than purchase some pussy. No offense.”

I couldn’t help but smile at his obvious dislike of the auction. And the way he emphasized artist like he was better than the people at the auction was funny, given how he was still showing off his own wealth and status like they were. He just tried to make himself look better.

I opened my mouth to speak but paused when I met a familiar set of deep blue eyes and a warm smile.

“Addi?”

Dominic and Warren turned to the newcomer. Messy black hair, blue eyes covered by square glasses. I was taken back to high school, where that same person had been much skinnier and nerd-like.

It was rare for me to come across anyone from high school. Most of the time, I didn’t want to see anyone out of shame. But he was different.

I can’t believe how long it’s been.