Chapter 58

The waiter presented a succession of dishes: lobsters, caviar, white truffles, Lafite, and more. More than a dozen waitresses served wine and tea, providing excellent service. Lan and his classmates felt like distinguished guests—a level of hospitality even Lan and his wealthy father had never experienced at this establishment.

The meal cost $160,000, and the hotel's reception was unparalleled. Ms. Catherine returned, smiling warmly, and announced loudly to Gilmore, "Mr. Reed, please try the caviar. I hope you enjoy it."

She then instructed a waitress, Shirley, "What are you standing there for? Serve Mr. Reed the Lafite."

"Yes, Ms. Catherine," the waitress replied, filling Gilmore's glass.

"Mr. Reed, please let us know if you require anything," Ms. Catherine added humbly, her excessive deference to Gilmore embarrassing Lan, the intended host. Lan felt a pang of jealous anger. He'd planned to impress his classmates and Lilian, but Gilmore had completely eclipsed him, becoming the center of attention. Lilian's tender gaze, a level of affection Lan had never received, was fixed on Gilmore. Lan's hatred was indescribable; he felt tormented. After all, Gilmore had footed the $160,000 bill. Lan found this suspicious. Gilmore's family wasn't wealthy. How could he afford such extravagance? He suspected foul play, believing he'd found Gilmore's weakness. Perhaps Gilmore's money was ill-gotten. The thought amused him.

Gilmore, however, felt uncomfortable under the intense scrutiny. He said to Ms. Catherine, "I feel uncomfortable with so many people watching. Could you and the waitresses leave us some space? I'll call if I need anything."

Ms. Catherine smiled respectfully, replying, "Yes, sir. We'll all leave. Just let us know if you require anything."

Gilmore nodded. A dozen waitresses followed Ms. Catherine from the room, and she softly closed the door.

Gilmore addressed the remaining guests, "Let's eat. Make yourselves at home!"

They readily agreed. It was their first time experiencing caviar, white truffles, and other delicacies. Their initial curiosity gave way to expressions of surprise, wonder, and admiration as they savored the exquisite food and wine. Even Lan enjoyed the meal.

Later, a classmate raised his glass, "Gilmore, it's great to see you again after all these years since high school! To you!"

The others joined in, "To Gilmore!" Lan, the intended host, was ignored. Gilmore stood, smiling, and raised his glass, "To our reunion!" Lilian, Celia, Robin, and Everly followed suit. Lan reluctantly joined them.

After the toast, the conversation flowed freely. Seizing the opportunity, Lan cleared his throat and said casually to Gilmore, "Gilmore, you've made a lot of money in less than a year of college. Impressive! And this caviar, truffles, and Lafite… could you share some tips on making money?"

The others were intrigued, asking similar questions. Even Lilian, Celia, and Robin wondered about Gilmore's newfound wealth. They all wanted to achieve his level of success.

Gilmore gestured for them to be quiet. "Calm down, everyone. I have something to say." Silence fell, and all eyes were on him.

Lan's eyes gleamed with anticipation. Gilmore smiled, "Since you all want to know, I'll tell you the truth. I recently won the lottery; two million dollars."

The revelation stunned them. However, it was the most plausible explanation for Gilmore's sudden wealth. Only winning the lottery could explain his transformation from a relatively poor high school student to his current affluence. Two million dollars was a life-changing sum. Gilmore was remarkably lucky. Lan finally understood the source of Gilmore’s generosity.

"What a stroke of luck!" Lan muttered jealously.

Gilmore continued, "I've told you how I made a fortune. If you want to try, buy lottery tickets." His classmates stared at each other, speechless.