After making sure that everything was alright with the gaming pod, I went toward my laptop and booted it up.
I bought it recently specifically so I could trade stocks more easily.
"..."
Placing a few trades, I observed the scales slowly tip in my favor as the stock prices started to climb. I've configured the trades to end at a certain point, which I knew would be the peak of the price surge.
During the past month, this has become somewhat of a habit for me.
"I should go grab something to eat..."
Picking up the room card, I quickly stepped out of my apartment and headed towards the elevator.
Click...
As the doors to the construction opened, I found myself face to face with another person.
!!!
For a second I stood frozen, however, I quickly composed myself and offered a friendly smile.
"Good evening."
I nodded my head absentmindedly, appearing normal.
Before me stood a man with a sharp gaze and blond hair that fell with a slight curl just above his shoulders. He wore a sleek black suit that accentuated his well-built body and exuded an air of confidence.
Observing me with his blood-red eyes he merely glanced at me for a second before leaving the elevator and disappearing into the corridor.
'Shit...'
As soon as I entered the elevator and its doors closed, I leaned against the cold metal wall and let out a curse.
That was no simple man I've just met.
He's Arthur, the son of a massive real estate conglomerate, known for their shady dealings and manipulation of the market.
In my last life, I had witnessed firsthand the consequences of crossing paths with people like him. I've also heard stories about his ruthless nature and capability to ruin the lives of those who dared to oppose him.
Once, a guy helped him defeat a boss within the Realm of Legends by pushing Arthur away, however, Arthur took it as a personal affront and ensured that the guy's life outside the game was turned upside down.
The moral of the story is not to show your identity in the game, at least until you are wealthy enough to protect yourself from such vindictive individuals.
"I should've chosen a different place to stay..."
Massaging my templates, I sigh. However, I couldn't just change my location now.
There were barely a few days left until the game's release and I had already spent a lot of my money on buying this apartment and installing a gaming pod within.
There was no way I was going to change my plans and start over again.
"I'll just keep a low profile and stay out of his way..."
Muttering to myself, I stepped out of the elevator when it reached the ground floor.
I exited the apartment building and found myself on a bustling street. The neon lights of shops and restaurants cast a colorful glow on the sidewalks, and the air was filled with the sounds of people talking and laughing.
I was well aware that this city was known for its food scene, so I decided to take advantage of it. I had been so focused on trading stocks lately that I hadn't had a chance to enjoy a good meal in a while.
For the past month, I've been mainly living off instant noodles and takeout.
"Time to get something good..."
I wandered down the street, scanning the menus of the various restaurants. I was looking for something special, something that would tantalize my taste buds and make me forget all about Arthur and my troubles.
Finally, I spotted a small restaurant tucked away in a corner. It had a charming atmosphere, with whitewashed walls and wooden tables covered in red checkered tablecloths. A chalkboard outside advertised the daily specials, which included fresh seafood and homemade pasta dishes.
I decided to give it a try. I stepped inside and was greeted by a friendly waiter who led me to a table.
I ordered a bowl of seafood pasta and a glass of simple apple juice.
As I waited for my food, I watched the other diners. There were couples on romantic dates, groups of friends out for a good time, and even a few families with young children.
Everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves.
"..."
For a moment, I zoned out, feeling a strange burn in my chest.
However, it didn't last long.
"Here you go!"
The waiter brought my food, and I took a deep breath. The pasta smelled delicious!
I took a bite and was immediately transported to heaven. The seafood was fresh and perfectly cooked, and the pasta was al dente. The sauce was rich and flavorful, with a hint of garlic and white wine.
I savored every bite, slowly savoring the flavors. As I ate, I felt all my worries and stresses melt away. I was simply in the moment, enjoying a delicious meal.
After I dined and left the restaurant, I took a deep breath of the cool evening air. The delicious meal had settled in my stomach, and I felt content and relaxed.
But as I began to walk, my expression hardened. My face grew cold and determined.
I was no longer the same person who had entered the restaurant.
I was now a man on a mission.
I turned in the opposite direction of my apartment complex.
"..."
It was time to do some shady stuff.