Chapter 125: LIKE TO WATCH GREAT GRANDMOTHER PAINT
"Nothing that dramatic, I’m afraid," Randall confessed with his hands on his hips, immediately drawing not only Aristia’s, but the interest of those with her. "Just some folks who don’t want to see my little store succeed. Jealous types, you know?"
As he spoke, his eyes subconsciously stared at the direction of the door, as if he could see the outside.
He paused for a few seconds, then continued, his voice barely more than a murmur as if he was fearful of speaking the words aloud. "Rival merchants, envious of my success, who would stop at nothing to see my business falter and fail. This place wasn’t always like this, but they’ve left me like this..."
He stood no chance against them.
He sighed wearily and confessed. "You see, I’ve been having a tough time keeping the place afloat lately. Business has been slow, and I hate to admit it, but I’m starting to worry I won’t be able to keep the doors open much longer."
This was the first time someone had asked about his business and he couldn’t help but vent his feelings. Besides, it was true that his store would soon close down. He had nothing to lose if they were sent by spies or if anyone from the rival merchant group heard.
Aristia turned away and looked around the store.
"Where do you get your art supplies from?"
"Huh?" Randall replied, a little confused and surprised at how she had said something a bit unrelated to his venting words. "From merchants from another kingdom."
"You said you wanted to sell your store, right?" Aristia asked another question.
Randall was quiet for a little while, then sighed and rubbed his face wearily, "Yes. It belonged to my father. I never planned to sell it but I have no choice. But who would want to purchase this old rundown store anyway?"