A Lie Has Turned Into Reality

“This won’t do.”

It’s been days since that cursed family gathering, and I’ve been holed up at home, living like a zombie.

During this time, I’ve done a lot of self-reflection.

“First, let’s step outside.”

It’s a strange thing.

This house was supposed to be my one and only sanctuary.

But now, staying cooped up here feels suffocating, like I’m about to lose my mind. All because of a small change in my circumstances!

I tapped my fingers on the desk, lost in thought.

I considered going on a trip, but it didn’t feel like the solution to my problem.

I don’t think a person’s transformation requires a grand, dramatic moment.

Sometimes, it’s as simple as wanting to impress someone you like. Or being inspired by the protagonist of a drama.

You go about your life, slowly and imperceptibly changing, until one day, you look back and realize you’ve become someone new.

There’s no need to change as if the heavens were being torn apart.

Even if it’s a small, laughable goal to someone else, it’s the starting point that matters, isn’t it?

Apgujeong Galleria Luxury Mall.

This place has been consistently sending me invitations and gifts lately.

It’s like the homeland of the luxury items piling up at my house.

Squish—

Two staff members stopped me at the entrance, their eyes fixed on the parking card stuck to my windshield. Curious about the situation, I rolled down the window to ask.

“Sir, we have a dedicated entrance for Prestige-level members. May we direct your car to valet parking there?”

“Oh, sure. Please do.”

Wait, they have something like that?

I got out of the car, handed over the key, and switched places with the valet staff.

“We’ll park your vehicle in a reserved spot for Prestige members, right by the first-floor entrance for your convenience.”

“Ah… thank you.”

“When you’re ready to leave, simply return this card. Enjoy your shopping.”

Coming out was definitely the right decision. Even at the entrance, I was already feeling pampered.

I watched as my car glided away smoothly and followed the valet staff’s gestures through the exclusive entrance into the mall.

I don’t know much about the VIP shopping culture at department stores.

After all, when you’ve barely had enough money to cover yourself in rags, there’s not much you can learn about luxury. On my old overweight body, clothes would stretch and tear more than they’d fit.

But now things are different.

I probably couldn’t spend all this money even if I tried my whole life. Might as well start putting it to good use now.

It’s the least I can do to respect the money sitting idly in my accounts.

So today, I decided I’d buy whatever caught my eye. Maybe even pick up something for the one friend I have.

With an excited heart, I wandered leisurely through the luxury mall, letting my feet take me wherever they wanted.

Then I noticed some employees heading my way.

“Sir, are you enjoying your shopping experience?”

The lead employee, a young woman, stopped in front of me and bowed politely. The others followed suit, bowing at a measured distance behind her.

Looking around, I realized how much commotion this was causing—people were glancing in my direction and whispering.

“It’s been such a long time since your last visit. My apologies for the delayed greeting. Would you allow us to escort you to the exclusive lounge?”

“Lounge? What lounge are you talking about?”

“We offer an exclusive lounge for our VVIP customers to provide additional convenience during their shopping experience. If it’s not too much trouble, may we guide you there now?”

So, in summary, “We’ll take you to a place where you can spend your money more comfortably.”

Fine by me—I’m dying to spend some cash anyway.

When I nodded, the employee flashed a bright smile and began leading the way to the lounge.

“Sir, if visiting in person is inconvenient, you can simply contact us, and we’ll arrange brand-specific setups to be delivered to your home.”

“That’s… an option?”

“Absolutely. Prestige-level members have access to on-call personal seller services for home visits.”

“What exactly is this Prestige-level membership?”

“It’s a tier available only to the top 30 customers with the highest annual spending at Galleria.”

Oh.

So I’m ranked among the top 30 spenders here? That’s… oddly satisfying.

As we chatted, we arrived at the exclusive lounge before I knew it.

The moment I stepped inside, I was greeted by a symphony of sweet aromas swirling together, teasing my senses.

Bright, luxurious lights illuminated the surroundings, and the marble interiors emphasized a modern, sophisticated aesthetic. Ornate decorations and vibrant flowers placed throughout the space created the ambiance of an art gallery.

The cacophony of noise that had greeted me upon entry had vanished, replaced by the serene melody of live music filling the air.

The rich, resonant tones of the grand piano, with its massive frame and long strings, were an auditory masterpiece.

Once again, it struck me: peace of mind and relaxation are privileges only money can provide.

Imagine coming to shop and being able to sit back, enjoy live music, and savor drinks and desserts.

All the stress from the family gathering melted away like snow in the sun. Financial therapy truly is the pinnacle of treatment.

I flipped through a magazine handed to me by a staff member, idly passing the time.

“Sir, the private room is ready for you.”

“Can I head in now?”

“Of course, feel free to use it whenever you’d like! Your dedicated seller and stylist are waiting for you.”

It felt like gearing up for battle—everything was meticulously prepared.

Well, if they’re going all out, it’s only fair I rise to the occasion.

Time to let my unlimited credit card do its thing.

“Oh my goodness, sir! This cozy teddy bear coat is incredibly trendy right now. It looks absolutely lovely on you!”

“This one can be styled as a trench coat or tied up for a chic jacket look. With your proportions, it’s practically alive!”

“This is a limited-edition Hermès wristwatch that just arrived in Korea. It’s technically a women’s model, but with genderless fashion trending, it’s perfect for your slender wrist!”

“This bag is Gucci’s latest briefcase design, but look—just attach this strap, and it transforms into a tote bag! Is there anything you don’t suit?”

“This 2022 Fendi FW dress shirt is a stunning new release. It’s so versatile that many people pair it with semi-casual looks. It’ll complement anything you wear!”

These women… they were serious.

It was the “mannequin strategy” in action. Over two hours, they had me trying on dozens of clothes and accessories, dressing me up and down like it was a game.

Whenever I found a set I liked, the photographer standing by would snap a photo and pack the items immediately.

By the end of the two-hour spree, I had chosen a total of 18 sets, including one for gifting.

“…”

The two saleswomen didn’t look tired at all—in fact, they seemed more energized than ever.

This won’t do. My stamina is nearly drained.

Ahem. “I think I’ve picked out enough for now.”

“Oh, already? We haven’t even shown you half the options yet…”

“Would you like to take a short break and continue after?”

Their sweet, pleading tone didn’t faze me. I was completely out of energy.

How do women shop all day long?

“I’m getting tired, so I think I’ll head out now.”

“Oh, what a shame. I’ll assist you with payment! We’ll have everything you purchased delivered to your home.”

“Please do. I won’t be able to carry it all myself.”

“The total comes to 237,510,000 KRW. I’ll process your payment now!”

What the—

I just spent over 200 million won in a single day, and they’re acting like it’s nothing?

Their calm, practiced demeanor as they took my card and processed the payment left me bewildered.

Still, their cheerful chatter and bright smiles were oddly endearing.

Satisfied, I took my card and receipt, giving them a brief nod before stepping out of the private room.

Outside, a group of staff members waited, bowing in unison and thanking me for my business as if I were some kind of local mob boss.

I handed the valet card to the attendant, who smiled warmly and led me to my car.

It was parked perfectly, positioned to exit smoothly from the first-floor entrance.

“Thank you for your visit, sir. We love having you. Did you enjoy your shopping?”

I nodded vaguely, opened the door, and slid into the driver’s seat.

Vroom—

The satisfying sound of the engine starting accompanied the smooth departure of the vehicle.

Hmm-hmm~

Humming to myself, I glanced at the sky. The sun was still high.

Heading straight home felt like a waste.

Since I was already out, why not make the most of the day?

Ding!

An idea popped into my head.

“Siri.”

How can I assist you?

“Call Kim Hyung-joon.”

Calling Kim Hyung-joon.

Kim Hyung-joon. My one and only friend.

“Hey, Sung-woo. What’s up?”

“I’m heading to your place now.”

“What? Are you insane?”

“You don’t have anything better to do anyway.”

“Hey, you crazy—”

Click.

I hung up after saying what I needed to say.

Spending money is always more fun with company.

And what better way to top off the day than with a luxurious staycation?

The grand finale: a hotel vacation.