NOVEL NEXT Chapter Nine: Change of Style
Ethan had just exited the bank, the sensation of $500,000 in cash weighing down the duffel bag on his shoulder.
He thought, "So, this is what it feels like to carry around $500,000."
For Ethan, this amount was merely a drop in the bucket compared to his wealth, so the weight didn't worry him much. He was surprisingly calm, considering how effortlessly everything had unfolded.
The plan had been executed flawlessly, with every step calculated to leave no trace behind, almost as if reality had bent to accommodate his will. Now, all that was left was to finalize things with David Turner.
Thinking it was time to get in touch, Ethan reached into his pocket, retrieved his phone, and scrolled to David's contact.
He had saved David's number, fearing the loss of the business card he had been given. With a mix of anticipation and excitement, he dialed David's number.
After a brief wait, he was greeted by David's familiar voice, answering, "Hello."
"Hi, David. It's me, Ethan. The one you met at the bookstore earlier," Ethan said.
David, sounding a bit surprised yet hopeful, responded, "Ethan? I didn't expect to hear from you so soon. Do you have something for me?"
"Yes, I do," Ethan replied, his eyes momentarily flicking to the duffel bag. "I spoke with my professor. He's interested in your proposal, but we need to meet to discuss it further. I've arranged a place for us to talk. Can you make it in an hour?"
Caught slightly off guard by Ethan's quick actions, David paused before asking, "In an hour? That's really soon. Where do you want to meet?"
Ethan paused to think. With a hefty sum of $500,000, he realized he couldn't just meet in any ordinary place like a coffee shop or a diner. The significance of the deal he was about to propose warranted a location that matched its importance. That's when the perfect idea struck him - the Opulence Royale Hotel. Known for its exceptional exclusivity and service, it seemed like the ideal setting.
"How about we meet at the Opulence Royale Hotel? I'll reserve a private room for us to discuss," Ethan suggested confidently.
There was a brief moment of silence before the response came. "The Opulence Royale?" David sounded genuinely surprised. "That's... impressive. I wouldn't have expected you to choose such a place."
Ethan couldn't help but smile to himself, pleased with the impression he was making. "See you there in two hours," he confirmed.
"Alright, I'll be there," David agreed, his excitement evident in his voice.
As the call ended, Ethan was filled with anticipation. This meeting was crucial and potentially life-changing, and he felt the weight of its importance.
However, catching his reflection in a shop window, Ethan realized he was underdressed for his chosen upscale setting. His current look was far from fitting for a man about to negotiate a significant deal; he appeared more like a financially struggling college student.
"I need to dress better," Ethan decided aloud.
He thought about the styles he had seen in movies or online, aiming for a balance between overly fancy and too casual. "I'll have a better idea of what to get once I see what's available," he thought.
Determined, Ethan headed towards the nearby upscale shopping district. He knew he needed to look the part to make the right impression on David Turner at the Opulence Royale.
A smart, stylish outfit would boost his confidence and command the respect necessary for such an important meeting.
***
The Laurel & Co. boutique, nestled among other high-end stores, displayed modern, sophisticated outfits in its windows that immediately caught the eye.
As Ethan stepped inside, he was welcomed by the fresh scent of polished leather and cologne, setting the tone for his shopping experience.
A saleswoman quickly approached him, scanning him before offering a warm, polite smile. "Good afternoon. How can I assist you today?" she asked.
Feeling slightly out of his element, Ethan looked around before answering. "I need something… smart casual. Something suitable for a business meeting," he explained.
"Of course," she responded, guiding him further into the store. Though she had silently judged his style, she kept her demeanor professional and helpful.
"We have a selection of tailored jackets, dress shirts, and casual slacks that would be perfect for that look. May I suggest starting with this?" the saleswoman offered, selecting a dark navy blazer from the rack.
Its clean lines and subtle stitching exuded effortless elegance. For a complete look, she paired it with a crisp white shirt and charcoal slacks.
"That seems nice. I can try it first," Ethan agreed, placing his trust in her expertise.
Surprised by Ethan's polite manner, the saleswoman felt a twinge of guilt for her earlier judgment. "Sure. The changing room is over there," she directed him.
As Ethan tried on the outfit, he was pleasantly surprised by his reflection in the mirror. The blazer fit him perfectly, and the shirt and slacks created a sleek, polished look.
He now saw himself as someone who could confidently walk into the Opulence Royale, ready to handle a $500,000 deal. "This will do," he decided, pleased with his transformation.
“How does it feel?” the saleswoman asked her gaze intently on him.
“Perfect,” Ethan responded, his fingers gliding over the fabric. “I’ll take it.”
The saleswoman's smile grew, her satisfaction evident. “Would you like to add anything else to your purchase? Maybe a pair of shoes to complete your outfit?”
After a brief moment of consideration, Ethan agreed with a nod. “Why not?”
Seeing his interest, the saleswoman’s smile broadened. “Great, let’s look for some shoes that will go perfectly with this.”
***
Now donned in his new outfit, Ethan felt more confident than ever as he made his way to the prestigious Opulence Royale Hotel. He couldn't help but acknowledge his new look's massive role in boosting his confidence.
"She was of great help. At least I’m looking and feeling much better," Ethan mused.
Approaching the grand hotel, its shiny facade stood as a symbol of the wealth and power of its clientele. Stepping inside, Ethan was greeted by the sight of gleaming marble floors and the soft sounds of affluence that filled the air.
As he approached the reception desk, a well-dressed concierge looked up. "Good afternoon, sir. How may I assist you today?" he asked.
With a steady voice, Ethan replied, "I’d like to book a private room for a business meeting."
The concierge, slightly surprised, checked his computer and said, "Our private rooms are priced at $2,000 per hour. How long will you be needing the room, sir?"
Without a moment's hesitation, Ethan said, "Three hours."
Now visibly surprised by Ethan's nonchalant demeanor, the concierge said, "That will be $6,000, sir. Are you sure—"
Ethan didn’t let him finish. "And I’d like to add premium delicacies and drinks. Make it the best you’ve got. Price isn’t an issue."
For a moment, the concierge was lost for words. It wasn't every day someone came in ready to spend like this without a second thought.
Quickly regaining his composure, the concierge confirmed, "Of course, sir. I’ll have our finest selection prepared. That brings your total to $8,000. Shall I charge your card?"
Ethan handed over a sleek black card. The concierge’s eyes widened slightly as the transaction processed smoothly.
Once the payment was approved, he returned the card to Ethan with a look of disbelief and said, "Your room will be ready in half an hour, Mr. Cole. If you need anything else, please let us know."
"Thank you," Ethan replied, tucking away his card.
As Ethan walked away, he thought, 'It feels different to spend like this without worry.'
He couldn’t help but smile, feeling the cash in his duffel bag now justified by the knowledge that his financial backing was solid.
Now, in his new attire, with the private room booked and a crucial meeting with David Turner ahead, Ethan felt he was on the verge of achieving something big.
Sitting in the private room, his mind buzzed, anticipating what was to come. He realized he wasn’t just pretending anymore but living a new reality. With the support he had, the possibilities seemed endless.