Riches in Disguise

"William, over here! We've saved you a seat!"

Someone had saved me a spot? It was an experience I never had before.

I slid into the chair, feeling grateful. "Thanks, man."

Benjamin waved the notebook I had given him the night before. "This notebook must be expensive, right? The paper feels amazing to write on."

"It's not that expensive, just over 300," I replied casually.

Liam nearly spat out his drink. "How much?"

His reaction made me realize that they were probably not wealthy, and 300 was likely a lot for them. I quickly corrected myself. "I think I misremembered. It's more like 30."

"That sounds about right," Liam said, patting his chest in relief. "There's no way a notebook costs over 300! You're funny."

I forced a smile, thinking that the very one they were using actually did cost over 300.

Suddenly, Liam turned serious. "William, we actually know about your situation, and I think it's unnecessary."

"Huh?" I raised an eyebrow, confused. "What do you mean by unnecessary?"

"Uh..." He hesitated and scratched his head.

"It's just that... you seem to enjoy acting like you're wealthy. But that's your choice, of course. I don't mean to interfere, but it makes it hard for everyone to connect with you. We can't relate."

I was at a loss for words. I wasn't trying to act rich!

I glanced at the two of them, wanting to explain, but I realized that the rumors had already taken root in their minds. It would be difficult to change their perceptions. I felt a little helpless.

Upon reflection, it was true that their financial situations were tight. If I revealed my true identity, they might not be so friendly with me anymore. So, I decided to stick to my current path.

"You're right. I shouldn't pretend to be wealthy. From now on, I won't put on an act anymore." I chuckled.noveldrama

"That's the spirit! Will, we may not have money, but we have dignity! We're just as good as anyone else. Why should they look down on us?"

"Exactly!"

After I said that, they became even friendlier, dropping the formalities and even calling me "Will".

Once class began, I noticed Joshua was absent. I wondered if he was injured and recovering in the hospital or if he owed too much money and was too afraid to show up.

After class, I wanted to treat my roommates to a meal. I tried to think of a place to go to that wouldn't hurt their pride but would still be delicious. Just then, Liam suddenly shouted with excitement.

"Will, let's go! I'll show you something amazing!"

I was surprised. "What's so amazing?"

"Just follow us!"

On the way back to the dorm, I learned that among the three of us, Matthew was the wealthiest.

Benjamin only received 500 a month and was on a scholarship, while Liam was a bit better off with a monthly allowance of 1,000. Matthew, on the other hand, received 2,500 a month.

To Benjamin and Liam, that was a fortune!

Finally, Benjamin sighed and concluded, "So, Matt is the only one in our dorm who's in a relationship."

She was quite attractive. She was slim and had long legs, but her face was slightly elongated, giving her a mature look. However, her beauty was a far cry from Lina's.