CHAPTER SEVENTY-FOUR

"Come on this way!" Sonia yelled gleefully, and Ruby let her pull her as they maneuvered through the walkway, which flowed like tributaries carrying a crowd of shoppers. They snaked deeper into the never-ending mall, passing glass doors and windows that displayed the latest fashions, jewelry, beauty products, and bright signs announcing discounts. The ceiling was domed high and made of beautiful glass. Stores, salons, and food courts were scattered around. Everything was shiny, the smell of new things left had an inviting scent in the air, and in the background, the gentle music felt like a hypnotic tune, soothing the shopper's minds as more notes escaped their pockets. Ruby apologized when she slammed her bags against someone in her rush before Sonia pulled her into one of the restaurants in the mall. She sighed in relief, happy to be away from the crowd, before depositing her bags on the floor and taking a seat. "Isn't it exciting? I love shopping." Sonia squealed, flipping her re