Chapter 2: Dinner and Status Games

The banquet hall was decked out in gold streamers and cheap balloons—'Class of 2008' spelled crookedly on the wall. Brian held court at the center table, every conversation orbiting him. Champagne glasses clinked, laughter echoed, but no one toasted in my direction. I pushed at my steak, tough as a hockey puck, the mashed potatoes cold, and the scent of cheap chafing fuel overpowering the fake floral centerpieces. It felt just like high school—except the cafeteria food might’ve been better.

Only Rachel Young, the former student council rep, sat beside me. She leaned in, her voice low and genuine. “Come on, Eric. Who cares about cars? You’re smart as hell—you’ll be driving whatever you want soon enough, trust me.” She squeezed my hand, her gold hoop earrings catching the light as she shot me a warm, encouraging smile. “Most of these people peaked in twelfth grade. Don’t let them get to you. You’ve always had more heart.”

I managed a faint smile. “You’re right. Besides, not everyone gets to drive a Malibu with a legacy.” I tried to joke, but old insecurities pressed on my chest. Rachel raised her glass to me, and for a second, that was enough.