Claire wore a puzzled expression. Was this really the place where Charlie had made reservations for their anniversary dinner tonight?

Unable to contain her skepticism, she asked, “You’re not just messing with me, are you?”

Charlie laughed joyfully. “Of course not!”

He continued, “I booked a table a few days ago. If you don’t believe me, let’s go inside and check!”

Claire shook her head. After three years of marriage, she knew Charlie would never deceive her, especially on such a significant occasion. “Nah, I believe you,” she replied.

With a curious tilt of her head, she inquired, “Did you manage to get a spot in the Sky Garden? I heard some VIP reserved the entire venue for today, right?”

Charlie quickly clarified, “The table I reserved is right next to the Sky Garden, and it has a view of the inside. We can sneak a peek later to see who booked the whole place! What do you think?”

Claire chuckled. “I’m not as nosy as you are!”

They then made their way into the Shangri-La Hotel.

While waiting for the elevator, a piercing shriek filled the air. “Hey, Claire! What are you doing here?!”

Claire glanced up to see a young couple approaching.

The man was dressed in an opulent suit that screamed wealth, while the woman was clad in high-end fashion from head to toe, her makeup flawless. However, her haughty demeanor made her outfit seem gaudy and overdone.

Claire recognized the woman immediately. It was Julie Downs, her college roommate, though they had been in different classes.

Despite sharing a dorm, Claire and Julie had never been close, primarily because of Julie’s prideful and envious nature.

Julie always believed that she deserved to be recognized as the belle of the college rather than Claire. In reality, she paled in comparison to Claire in looks, figure, temperament, and personality.

To give credit where it was due, Julie did excel in flirting and attracting wealthy men. Rumor had it that numerous affluent suitors had supported her financially throughout her four years in college.

Feeling a surge of irritation, Claire still greeted them politely as they approached. “Julie, it’s been a while! My husband and I are having dinner here. What about you?”

Julie gasped in feigned surprise. “Wow, what a coincidence! So are we!”

With a tone of exaggerated curiosity, she asked, “Which suite did you book? The standard, premium, or luxury?”

Not having any details about Charlie’s plans, Claire replied honestly, “I’m not sure; my husband made the reservation.”

At that moment, Julie finally noticed Charlie, who had been quietly standing by Claire’s side. She covered her mouth and let out a mocking giggle. “Oh, so this is your husband, Charlie? I remember him being known as a deadbeat loser back in college!”

Her disdainful remark was particularly harsh and unpleasant.

Claire felt a flush of embarrassment.

Julie quickly composed herself and added apologetically, “Oh, I’m sorry! I can be too blunt and outspoken. I hope you don’t mind…”

Charlie frowned in irritation. It was clear that Julie was not a nice person!