Chapter 17: Shopping
The search for a decent computer store had quickly turned into a wild goose chase.
Jack and Richard went from one specialized computer shop to another, only to be met with disappointment after disappointment.
More outdated parts. More dust-covered inventory.
At one shop, an old man behind the counter proudly presented a Pentium 4 processor as if it were a rare gem.
Jack gave him a blank stare. "Sir... this came out when I was in grade school."
The old man chuckled. "They don't make 'em like they used to."
Richard sighed, nudging Jack. "Let's go before he tries to sell us a CRT monitor."
They exited the store and stood on the bustling sidewalk, watching college students, tricycle drivers, and office workers go about their day.
"This is starting to feel hopeless," Richard muttered, crossing his arms.
Jack rubbed his temples. "We need insider knowledge."
And so, they started asking around.