The Damaris Foundation Gala was the most prestigious event in all of Veradena.Gold chandeliers shimmered above, strings played soft melodies, and the air carried the scent of roses and old money. Every powerful family in the city was there — politicians, businessmen, journalists, and the same socialites who once toasted Billy’s success.And now, they whispered as he entered.“Is that really him?”“The ex-son-in-law?”“Didn’t he lose everything?”“He looks… different.”Billy felt their eyes burning into his back like invisible knives, but he kept walking. His suit wasn’t designer, his shoes weren’t new, yet his posture was steady — a man no longer chasing approval, only peace.---He moved toward the refreshment table, needing something — anything — to keep his hands from shaking. He poured himself water, not champagne. The bubbles of laughter nearby sounded distant, hollow.Then, he heard a familiar voice behind him. Smooth, arrogant.“Well, well, look who crawled out of the gutter.”