Friday. Two days before the start of his job.
Aaron was torn between excitement and nervousness about working in his father's company, even though the activity mainly served to launder money. Despite this, the business was completely legal. But the most exciting thing was to be a resident doctor at the hospital (run by his father).
Not having appropriate clothing for his new job, he had asked for his mother's help, a true fashion expert. Unlike her son, who had no sense of style and just wore whatever he found.
However, his mother explained that she was busy with preparations for his sister's engagement approaching. She suggested Aaron to take his sisters to help him choose his clothes. Kira, in particular, was thrilled at the opportunity to spend time with her brother during a shopping session, an activity she particularly enjoyed.
Myra, on the other hand, had asked her fiancé to accompany them so he could spend time with her family. Alexei gladly agreed, not wanting to miss an opportunity to be close to Myra.
Kira let out a sigh upon learning that her future brother-in-law would be joining them. "I would have preferred it to just be the three of us, but if it makes you happy…"
She was finally starting to accept the idea of the marriage, even though she continued to dislike Alexei for stealing her sister's heart.
The Smirnovs lived in Novosibirsk, a city in Russia located in Western Siberia. With a population of 1,621,330 inhabitants in 2022, Novosibirsk is the third largest city in Russia. Although the Smirnov family's main base was in Moscow, they had deep roots in Novosibirsk, where they had been living for generations.
Their house was located in a secluded area, far from the hustle and bustle of the city, but only a few kilometers away from the shopping centers where the triplets would go shopping. Kira found it boring to have to make such a long car journey to go shopping, often feeling exhausted by the time they reached the mall.
Their father's business was also located in the city, and the Smirnov family owned a large house there. If Aaron had to start working, he would have to stay there during his employment, occasionally returning to the mansion but spending most of his time in the city.
The three arrived at their destination, nine years having passed since Aaron's last visit. Nothing had changed, except for the increasing number of houses and shops, making the place just as bustling as ever.
"I'm taking you to the most chic shops," exclaimed Kira excitedly. She knew every boutique and owner in the area, being a regular visitor. Holding a degree in commerce with honors, she was particularly passionate about fashion, boutiques, and gastronomy. Their father had built her a clothing store, which she had developed into a renowned brand across the country, and even globally. In reality, most of the clothing stores in the city belonged to her, but Aaron and their mother were not aware of this, only their father and Myra were in on the secret.
Myra was nervous waiting for her boyfriend. They had arranged to meet in town at 9 o'clock, but Alexei was running late. She sent him a message to let him know where they were, then took her brother and sister, linked by Kira, to a men's clothing store called "Odezhda i Trendy."
Myra and Kira stepped through the store's door first, followed by Aaron. Upon entering, Aaron was immediately captivated by the sophisticated and masculine atmosphere that permeated this elegant space, blending the scents of leather and cotton.
The first things that caught his eye were the perfectly tailored suits that were prominently displayed in the store. From wool and linen jackets to velvet trousers, each piece exuded quality and refinement. He also noticed cotton shirts in vibrant colors and original patterns, as well as silk ties carefully arranged on dark wooden stands.
Moving further in, he discovered a section dedicated to accessories. Luxurious leather belts, felt hats, and cashmere scarves were showcased alongside elegant watches and silver necklaces. He lingered in front of a display case filled with fine Swiss watches and high-end sunglasses.
He then found himself drawn to a selection of jeans and wool sweaters, more his style, where he found more casual and modern pieces to complement his look. White leather sneakers were displayed next to patinated leather boots, offering a wide range of shoe choices.
He told his sisters that this store had everything he wanted. "It won't be as long as I thought."
"You're such a country boy, Aaron," teased Kira, who wanted to explore all the shops. "We have to see it all."
Myra sighed at Kira's words. It promised to be an endless day. Kira was a true shopping addict. "Welcome to hell," Myra said to Aaron, causing a burst of laughter from everyone.