CHAPTER FOURTEEN: DINNER WITH DOUBT

Jamie left president Hill's office in frustration. He planned to visit the bank to send money from his premium card to his bank account. He couldn't be seen with it. While he was taking a walk to clear his head of all that happened today, he stumbled upon the most exclusive restaurant on campus, “the grand table”.

The restaurant was known for its luxurious ambiance and gourmet cuisine, a place where only the wealthiest students dined. Jamie's stomach grumbled at the sight of the building. He needed a break, a chance to treat himself after what happened today.

Pulling out his premium card, he decided to buy himself a meal that would both comfort him and distract him from the day's troubles.

As Jamie approached the entrance, he noticed Bella and Lucas standing just inside, their voices low but filled with laughter. Bella’s eyes, filled with mischief, caught Jamie’s as he walked in. The sight of them together, laughing and enjoying their meal, hit him harder than he expected. He took a deep breath, trying to steady himself before stepping through the doors.

The restaurant’s interior was a blend of modern elegance and classic charm, with plush seating and soft lighting that created an intimate atmosphere. Jamie spotted a vacant table by the window and made his way to it, trying to ignore the pair who had now turned their attention to him.

Bella’s giggle rang out, a sound that seemed to slice through the calm of the restaurant. “Look who decided to join us, Lucas. The guy with the fake money and the fake life. How fitting, don’t you think?”

Jamie forced a smile, keeping his gaze fixed on the menu in front of him. “Bella, Lucas,” he said, his voice calm but firm. “Enjoying your meal? I thought I’d treat myself after a rough day. No hard feelings, right?”

Lucas snorted, his expression one of barely concealed amusement. “Oh, come on, Jamie. You think you can just waltz in here, pretending to be someone you’re not? Look at you, dining at the Grand Table. Did you really think you could buy your way into our lives with that fake money?”

“Oh Lucas, I'm sure you're tired of seeing my face as I am. Please walk away and leave me be. I've had enough of you since today,” Jamie said feigning a smile.

Bella’s laughter was a sharp contrast to the quiet ambiance of the restaurant. “You know, Jamie, it’s kind of pathetic. All that effort to look rich and successful. But we all know the truth, don’t we? You’re just a wannabe, trying to keep up with the real players.”

Jamie’s fingers tightened around the menu, the words cutting deeper than he expected. He looked at them, his eyes reflecting a mix of anger and sadness. “You don’t know anything about me,” he said quietly. “You don’t know the struggles I’ve faced, the sacrifices I’ve made. But you’re right about one thing. This meal is for me, not for you. So, if you don’t mind, I’d like to enjoy it in peace.”

Bella rolled her eyes, her tone dripping with mockery. “Oh, come on, Jamie. You think you can just walk away from this? You think we’re done here? We’re just getting started. You're way over your head, and you don’t even realize it.”

Jamie became angry that he lost his appetite. “Christ, Bella! I was only trying to eat. Can you not cause any problems for me?” Jamie asked, already tired of this back and forth drama.

“Look Jamie, I'll make sure that you're properly dealt with,” Lucas said.