Gemotions

The reunion was a disaster. Michael stood before the assembled classmates, a stranger. "I don't remember you," Chloe said, her voice dismissive, her gaze drifting over his faded jeans and slightly rumpled shirt. "Were you even *in* our class?"

Michael feigned nonchalance, but the comment stung. He spent the rest of the evening subtly outshining her. He regaled the crowd with his successful business ventures, casually mentioning his expensive car and his exotic vacations.

As Chloe finally approached him to apologize for her behavior, he politely declined her offer to catch up later. He turned and walked away, a ghost of a smile playing on his lips, leaving her standing alone. He knew he'd won.