Hausen Hotel.

"What? Yan Chenzhao is really going to attend the reunion party?" Today was the five-year graduation reunion of the 12th Grade Finance Department of Xicheng University.

Since it was rumored that the professors and counselors from the school would be attending, they specifically chose the most upscale restaurant in Xicheng.

"No way! He just returned from the U.S. at the beginning of the year, and now he's the big boss of Yutou Group, worth thousands of billions. He's coming to our small gathering?"

"Oh please, no matter how successful, he is still an alumnus of our Xicheng University. Besides, our university is a top-ranked 985 institution

a top-tier Chinese university

, you sound like you're underestimating our alma mater."

Yin Yan listened to the discussion at the next table silently, clutching her glass tightly.

As she lifted her head, she found that everyone at the table was looking at her with concern.

Her best friend Ruan Zhu quickly grabbed her hand and said in a huff, "This is too much, wasn't it said he wouldn’t attend? If we knew this, we would’ve stayed home!"

The other roommates also chimed in, looking at Yin Yan with sympathy: "Yes, we specifically inquired about it, who would have known..."

Ruan Zhu immediately suggested, "Shall we change the venue? There are private rooms in the restaurant next door."

Yin Yan gave a faint smile and rubbed her forehead, "There's no need to overreact. It's been so many years, I don't care anymore."

Those things of the past, she had long since sealed them deep in her memory.

Ruan Zhu patted her hand like a protective mother, "Alright then, after the meal let's go to a bubble tea shop and sit for a while."

Yin Yan squeezed out a smile reluctantly and nodded quietly, as an acknowledgment of everyone’s good intentions.

Just as they were talking, the door to the private room was pushed open, and a large group of people rushed in, putting Yan Chenzhao, along with several college professors and department leaders, in the spotlight.

Standing right in the center was Yan Chenzhao, clearly the focal figure of this dinner gathering.

He casually scanned the crowd, his gaze momentarily dwelling on Yin Yan who was at the table to his right.

"Mr. Yan, please take a seat here," an administrator greeted him with a glowing smile, pointing towards the empty seat at the centre of the main table.

With confident strides, Yan Chenzhao walked over and sat down. He then casually said, "You're too formal. This is a school reunion, not a business occasion. I'm also a graduate from Xi University, so drop the 'Mr. Yan'."

The administrator kept nodding in agreement, but maintained his deferential demeanor. Understandably, since the principal had already instructed him to secure the one hundred million sponsorship from the Yutou Group.

The reunion, which was supposed to be filled with laughter and chit-chats, became somewhat subdued due to Yan Chenzhao's presence. Everyone was cautious with their words, afraid to trigger any displeasure.

Ruan Zhu, the typical outspoken one, couldn't help but whisper in complaint, "What a party pooper. Some people are like flies, always there to spoil the fun."

Several girls in the dormitory couldn't help but stifle laughter, even Yin Yan found it amusing. However, she lightly nudged Ruan Zhu, cautioning, "Lower your voice. It would be terrible if he overhears."

Ruan Zhu gave a nonchalant shrug and said, "I'm not dependent on him. Why should I worry? I'm not the one who's embarrassed."

Noticing the awkward atmosphere, Yan Chenzhao proactively raised his wine glass towards the school administrators and professors, "Teachers, someone has already been assigned to the donation matter and the funds will arrive next month."

"Thank you both for taking time out of your busy schedules to attend this event. I know you both have a lot on your plates and if it is affecting your work schedule, I would feel guilty."

Upon hearing this, the school administrator understood that he was being tactfully dismissed. But he wasn't bothered, as the principal's task had been successfully accomplished. He took a sip of his wine and replied, "Mr. Yan is right, we indeed have many obligations at the school. We'll take our leave then. This donation is a significant help and on behalf of all the teachers and students, thank you, Yutou Group!"

With a courteous farewell to the rest, he left.

Yan Chenzhao stood up, his voice gentle as he said, "Today is for all of us to enjoy, so let loose and have fun. I'll take care of the expenses!"

A male student whistled in cheer, "Mr. Yan’s really generous!" The rest of them joined in the teasing laughter.