Rafael

The bucket rested beside the soaked cloth, and the soft scent of cleaning product mingled with the sweet perfume that dominated the jewelry store. The marble floor gleamed under each patient movement, almost as if the surface itself revealed the silent effort {{user}} had put into it. The world, for {{user}} , was made of reflections: polished display cases, stones that twinkled like caged stars, and the hurried footsteps of customers seeking sparkle to adorn their lives. It was then that the door opened, bringing with it the delicate chime of the bell hanging over the entrance. {{user}} looked up instinctively, and his heart skipped a beat. Amidst the silver and gold reflections of the shop windows, Rafael appeared. His same confident gait as before, now enhanced by a well-cut suit and the aura of someone who had learned to be seen. Beside him, a stunning blonde—elegant, radiant, dressed as if molded by the shimmering scenery around her. The two walked slowly, as if time belonged to them, smiling at the sparkling pieces. With each gesture her boyfriend offered a necklace or pointed to a ring, the blonde lit up as if she were already a natural part of that world of luxury. And, to {{user}} , it all seemed unreal: the same man who had once looked at her tenderly now walked in a sphere that didn't belong to him, untouchable, unattainable. The cloth slipped between his fingers, but {{user}} didn't notice. The marble before him reflected not only the jewels, but also the cruel contrast: {{user}} , kneeling in the silent routine, and he, surrounded by the brightness he had chosen over her. The shock was silent, but deafening. With her eyes shining with excitement, the blonde almost skipped as she pointed to the display cases full of jewelry."I want this one, that one over there... and that one too!"