Upon hearing my comment, he burst into hearty laughter. “Are you kidding me? Why wouldn’t I be happy when I’ve reached the pinnacle of my life and achieved everything I used to dream of? The so-called superstitions about the rich being envious of the poor because of their love and friendships are false! Instead, the relationships amongst the rich should be envied. We can entice any women that we want! Isn’t that amazing?”
I merely shrugged and chose not to refute his statement. “So what were you sighing about?” I asked as the city line began to shrink from view.
“Of course I was only trying to find a conversational topic to talk about. I’ve heard that we are very similar. Thus, I couldn’t help but think of the shared topics of interest that we may have,” he smirked and turned to me.
“What are you talking about?” We don’t have any similarities at all!
“Ever since I was young, I’ve grown up alongside my mother. She struggled with her work, and I was constantly berated by others. People like to criticize the weak by thinking highly of themselves. Ever since that moment, I promised that I would repay their cruelty by a thousandfold and give them a taste of their own medicine if I ever managed to climb to a higher status. Right now, I’ve managed to achieve my dream!” Holden said as he leaned languidly against the railing.
“You shouldn’t group us together,” I replied with a frown, “My childhood was not as terrible as you’ve imagined. Thus, you don’t have to find a common ground between the two of us. After all, I have no wish to share any traits with you nor to comfort your so-called embarrassing or tragic childhood.”
“It’s alright. I do not want your sympathy. I merely wanted to find someone reasonable to express my emotions. Ah… I’m feeling much better now,” he said dismissively.
Ugh… how contradictory of him to say so! I shrugged and prepared to excuse myself. All of a sudden, a stunning woman made her way towards Holden. She had a wine glass in her hand as she gave him a sultry smile. Ah… Of course, a reception wouldn’t be complete without a beautiful escort.
Holden seemed pleased to receive the woman’s attention. Instead of rejecting her advances, he wrapped a hand around her waist and pulled her closer. “Darling, I won’t be rejecting anyone who approached me.” He whispered in her ear and chuckled, his warm breath caressing her earlobes.
“It’s alright. We’ll get what we want anyway!” She smiled enchantingly in response.
I watched them leave with a slight frown across my face. In the world of adults, money and relationships seemed to be heavily intertwined. At the same time, it felt like the two topics were worlds apart too.
When I re-entered the banquet hall, Ashton had just finished his discussion. “It’s quite windy outside. Why did you head out?” he asked with a grin as he made his way towards me.
“I just wanted to enjoy the scenery!” I gave him a warm smile.
“Let’s go. I’ve prepared an interesting show.” Ashton flicked my nose mischievously.
“Is it going to be a surprise?” I raised my brows.
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