Riches in Disguise

I could probably count them with just two hands. The others probably donated for fame and fortune.

Louis and Zack were prime examples of people out for recognition. They only donated out of the desire for acclaim. People like them would never donate to charity regularly.

"A grand total of 8,936 donors have participated in this event. Since there were too many of you, I'm afraid we couldn't present all of you with a certificate on stage. Therefore, most of you will receive a certificate in your emails as a form of encouragement."

"However, we will be presenting a special certificate of acknowledgment to 33 donors who have donated over one thousand dollars tonight! Then, may the party officially begin!"

The host was an expert in creating a lively atmosphere as a round of thunderous applause could be heard from the audience.

That was especially so for the 33 honored donors who would go on stage to receive their certificates.

An event like this would definitely be featured in the university's newspaper and the charity's official website.'

It was an undeniable honor to be known as a generous benefactor in the university's newspaper and the official website. Thus, it would become something to brag about when they graduated since it would be a lifelong prestigious achievement.

It was normal for them to be so thrilled.

Veronica, who was sitting in the row in front of us, had a look of surprise on her face. "I can't believe someone donated more than one thousand dollars. They must be loaded! I could buy at least 10 outfits for one grand. Hell, it'll last me for several months."noveldrama

Soon, others began whispering amongst themselves. "Damn. Why did none of them treat me like a charity case? I've been dying to get a computer for ages! Can those bigshots donate a computer so I could play my games?"

"We've got quite a few wealthy kids in our university. Didn't you see those luxury cars in our parking lot? How much did you donate?"

"I donated 5 dollars."

"I donated 2 dollars."

"I donated 800. If I knew we'd get a special certificate for donating over a thousand, I would've added another 200."

Just then, the host began going through his list of names. He was naming them from the lowest amount of donations given. The first group to go on stage came to a total of 15 people.

Soon, it was the second round where only 10 were called up. Finally, it was the last round that everyone was eagerly anticipating.

The last round consisted of only seven donors. These eight benefactors would be named in the university's paper and the official website. The lucky ones might even get their faces aired.

Thus, everyone was eagerly waiting for the host to announce those names. "Let's welcome Howard Thorne, Louis Grant, Zack Xander.... on stage!"

Veronica leaped to her feet and clapped once she heard Louis' name. "Honey, you're amazing! You didn't even tell me you donated 1,000 dollars. How could you? By the way, can I come with you on stage, honey? I want to go on stage with you."

Louis guffawed as he embraced Veronica, "Babe, you're definitely coming with. Let's go!"

"Thank you, honey."

She hugged Louis tightly and gave him a smooch, ignoring everyone's gazes.

I found it painful to look at. So, I immediately looked away.

Alas, I didn't expect Veronica to set her sights on Felicia and me after such a public display of affection. "Hey, you fraud. Don't tell me you didn't donate a single penny and still came to this party."

"God, here we go again," I thought in annoyance.

These people just had to go around belittling others when they were feeling particularly good about themselves. So, I deliberately turned my head, dismissing her entirely.

Unfortunately, Veronica's gaze sharpened on Felicia in the face of my dismissal. She started harassing her, inquiring sharply, "Hmph! I knew you'd cheap out on this. Felicia, how much did you donate?"

Felicia had an awkward look on her face as she stammered, "I-I didn't know there was a charity going on. So, I didn't donate."