Spa Day

"Alexander!? Are you alright, Alexander!" Drayvos's deep voice echoed with concern as he cradled his beloved in his arms.

Groaning softly, Alex gradually regained his senses. "Yes, Drayvos, I'm okay," he murmured, shaking his head as he sat up. After dusting himself off and composing himself, he turned to the concerned store owner. "And yes, I will accept."

As the logistical details of the substantial sale were finalized, Alex couldn't help but grin—four million dollars richer, his financial worries were finally behind him. However, amidst the thrill of newfound wealth, a sense of dread crept over him.

Observing the gold clerk on the phone with the US Federal Reserve and Drayvos aimlessly browsing the shelves of gold trinkets, Alex realized the potential consequences of their conspicuous display of wealth. If word got out about the gold and Drayvos's extraordinary abilities, they would be pursued relentlessly—a literal "Gold-Laying Goose."

With uncharacteristic firmness, Alex addressed the store owner, his voice laced with a mix of warning and resolve. "Now listen closely, as I will not be repeating myself," he declared, his gaze piercing. "If I catch even a hint of social media posts, newsreels, or newspaper clippings featuring his face or name," he pointed directly at Drayvos, his protector's instincts kicking in, "I will sue you and your entire company for defamation of character. Do I make myself clear?"

"Yes, yes, Mr. Ward," the store owner nodded nervously, her eyes wide with apprehension. "The sale will be processed discreetly through the United States Treasury, and your privacy will be safeguarded."

"Thank you," Alex replied curtly, his steely gaze unwavering as he exited the store, Drayvos following behind, visibly perplexed by the sudden tension in the air.

—

Leaving the opulent gold store, Alex's demeanor transformed from disbelief to unbridled excitement. He had entered the boutique with empty pockets and emerged as a multi-millionaire.

Still reeling from the surreal encounter, Drayvos couldn't help but voice his concern. "Did you have to intimidate the poor woman like that, Alexander?" His tone was earnest, laced with apprehension at the thought of newfound wealth altering their dynamic.

"I wasn't being mean, I was being firm," Alex explained, gazing up at his towering companion. "If word got out that the gold came from you, every news outlet, social media influencer, and acquaintance I've ever known would come knocking. It's one of the main reasons lottery winners often end up broke—everyone comes hunting for a piece of their newfound wealth. I can't risk exposing you to the world, Drayvos. You're far too precious and unique to fall into the hands of the ruthless masses."

Drayvos nodded in understanding, a flicker of mischief dancing in his eyes. "I understand, but perhaps I can make her day a little brighter," he suggested.

With a graceful motion, Drayvos stooped down and retrieved a sizable chunk of broken sidewalk. Gripping the concrete mass with both hands, he wove his magic, transforming it into solid gold before their eyes.

Inside the boutique, the woman nervously attended to Alex's affairs, her anxiety palpable as she saw the giant strifing towards her, as she anticipated the repercussions of her dealings with the mysterious duo. "I assure you sir, I'm only discussing your payment with my corporate office," she stammered, her voice trembling with apprehension.

Then, with a resounding thud, Drayvos placed the gleaming chunk of gold on her table. "For you," he declared simply, before turning and departing.

A look of incredulity washed over the woman's face as she stared at the extraordinary gift before her. In an instant, her world had been forever altered by the unexpected generosity of a strange giant.

—

"So, what's our next move, Alexander?" The two men, dressed in weather-worn clothes, strolled down the bustling streets of Panama City, surrounded by high-end boutiques, salons, and spas, their pockets now four million dollars heavier than they had been that morning.

"Well, do you fancy a wardrobe update or perhaps a bit of a makeover?" Alex gestured towards a men's boutique and a luxurious salon and spa nearby. "Personally, I could use a medi-pedi and a trim. My hair's been getting a bit unruly during this month-long journey."

Drayvos observed the spa attendants pampering a patron's feet and attending to their client's hair with keen interest. "I thought you taught me that slavery was abolished in 1865 with the 13th amendment," he remarked, nodding towards the salon staff. "Yet those individuals seem to be performing tasks similar to what slaves did back on Olympus."

Alex chuckled, shaking his head. "Oh, Drayvos, those aren't slaves. They're professionals who are paid fair wages for their services and hard work." He gave the giant a friendly pat on the back. "Come on, let's get you cleaned up, and then we can shop for some new clothes."

"So, these 'bathing slaves' are legal because they're paid to bathe me?" Drayvos inquired as they made their way towards the spa.

"Yes, Drayvos," Alex confirmed.

"But you told me no one would bathe me, and that's why I had to learn to shower myself!"

"Not for free!" Alex clarified with a laugh, as they entered the spa together, ready to indulge in some well-deserved pampering.

—

Moments later, Alex found himself ensconced in luxury, with one stylist meticulously tending to his hair while another expertly manicured his hands. Surrendering to the indulgent experience, he couldn't help but emit a contented sigh, relishing every moment of pampering.

As he opened his eyes, a smile graced his lips at the sight before him: his towering companion, Drayvos, surrounded by not one, but seven attentive spa staff. It was as if the entire salon had come to a standstill just to cater to their needs.

In awe, Alex observed the meticulous care being lavished upon Drayvos. One attendant diligently tended to his hair, while another expertly trimmed his beard. Additional staff members focused on each of his hands and feet, ensuring every inch received the utmost attention. And to Alex's surprise, not one, not two, but three staff members were dedicated to giving Drayvos a sponge bath, despite it not being a service listed on the menu. Yet, even the manager of the boutique couldn't refuse Drayvos' request, such was the imposing figure's alluring charm and presence.

—

Moments later, Alex emerged from the salon, his hair expertly styled into a sleek faux hawk, exuding confidence with each step. By his side, Drayvos strode with an air of newfound refinement, emanating a blend of cleanliness and masculine elegance that turned heads as they walked.

Drayvos' once untamed black locks were now tamed into a modern and chic style, his beard expertly trimmed into a stunning black beard and goatee that accentuated his rugged features.

"Wow, you clean up well!" Alex remarked with a grin, admiring the transformation of his companion's appearance. "Ah, shoot, I forgot to tip them," he muttered, a hint of regret coloring his tone.

"We tip them? But they are already standing upright," Drayvos questioned, his confusion evident.

Chuckling softly, Alex clarified, "No, silly. Tipping is a custom where we offer extra payment as a token of gratitude for their exceptional service today."

Understanding dawned on Drayvos' features as he nodded in comprehension. Glancing around the salon, his eyes fell upon a wild banana tree laden with ripe, yellow fruit. With a strength born of his immense stature, he effortlessly tore off a bushel of bananas before making his way back to the spa.

Arriving at the front desk, Drayvos presented the astonished staff with an armful of solid gold bananas. "Here, these are for all of you," he declared, depositing the golden bounty onto the desk with a nod of satisfaction. "A tip." With that, he turned and left, leaving the staff speechless in his wake.