In the vibrant atmosphere of the mall, Mateus walked confidently, wearing an impeccable white shirt that contrasted with his elegant black pants. A pair of sunglasses darkened his eyes, giving him an air of mystery and sophistication as he passed between the luxury display windows, where expensive items shone under the soft light.
As he entered a store of a famous brand, the manager was already waiting for him, an expression of respect on his face. "Hello, Mr. Oliveira. You came before the scheduled time, but luckily the headquarters delivered your customized clothes only an hour ago," the manager informed him, adjusting his tie as he led him through the store.
Matthew felt a slight smile form on his lips. The attention he received never ceased to amaze him. The manager, with his impeccable bearing, led him to the store's VIP room, a reserved and luxurious space, decorated with leather sofas and soft lighting that created an intimate atmosphere.
"Please, make yourself comfortable. The clothes are here," the manager said, gesturing to a rack displaying the custom suits, neatly folded and organized. The sight of the tailored pieces, featuring high-quality fabrics and elegant designs, made Matthew's heart race. The power he had gained in his new life opened wide doors for him.
As the manager talked about the season's trends, Matthew examined the clothes, imagining how each one would fit. What had once been just a dream had now become a tangible reality, and he was determined to make the most of every moment.
As he passed a prestigious suit store, Matthew hesitated for a moment, feeling the pull of the luxury emanating from the interior. The ambiance was sophisticated, with walls adorned in sober tones and soft lighting, highlighting the suits impeccably lined up on elegant hangers. Without a second thought, he decided to go in.
As soon as he walked through the door, the scent of fine fabrics and leather enveloped him. A well-dressed salesman approached, a professional smile on his face. "Welcome, sir! How may I help you today?"
"I'm looking for some suits," Matthew replied, his voice firm and confident. "Something that fits well and doesn't bother me too much." He began to look around, admiring the sophisticated textures and cuts.
The salesman, sensing an opportunity, began to display a selection of suits. "This one is tailored, made from a high-quality Italian fabric. Perfect for formal occasions, but also comfortable for everyday wear," he explained, as Matthew examined each piece.
He finally chose two suits: a classic navy blue and a light gray, both with modern cuts. He then decided to accessorize his choices with a silk tie and pocket square that added a touch of elegance.
As he approached the register, Matthew glanced indifferently at the price tag. "I'll pay cash," he said, as he pulled a wad of bills from his pocket. The cashier was taken aback, but quickly began processing the transaction.
Meanwhile, a nearby couple watched the scene. The wife, wide-eyed, whispered to her husband, "Look at what he spent on suits! And all in plain sight... What are you doing to avoid doing the same?"
The husband, a little embarrassed, looked away and shook his head, unsure of what to say. The woman continued to watch Matthew, admiring his style and the confidence he exuded. "I think we need an update, don't you? Look at how he carries himself."
Matthew, listening to fragments of the conversation as he waited for the payment to complete, couldn't help but smile slightly in amusement.
Matthew left the store with a tired expression, relieved that he had brought cash. "Good thing... my card is lost somewhere in the drawer of my computer desk," he muttered to himself, adjusting the bag in one hand.
When he made his way to the food court, he chose a quieter restaurant and ordered something light, more out of habit than hunger. Sitting at the table, he watched the movement around him, people coming and going, laughing, talking, going about their daily routines.
"Hmm... seeing all these people focused on their own lives... makes me think of mine," he murmured, almost imperceptibly, as he drummed his fingers on the table.
Matthew let out a long, tired sigh. "Nothing here really interests me," he commented to himself, with a certain disdain. He glanced at his watch, trying to decide what to do next.
Then, a flash of memory made him smile slightly. A fleeting image of a woman crossed his mind, one he had briefly encountered somewhere. "Well... maybe there is something that could take away some of this boredom," he murmured, letting out a light laugh.
His thoughts were interrupted by the arrival of the dish. He sighed, still lost in the ephemeral memory, wondering if fate would bring him back to her presence.