Outside the mall, rows upon rows of cars are parked in the expansive parking lots. It is relatively quiet, with occasional sounds of car doors being locked. The decorative accents on the doors beckon you to enter and have a good time.
The building’s various textures create distinct lines, ranging from smooth to rough. When you run your hand along the side of the building, you can feel this transition. At nighttime, the entrance is well-lit, making it visible to everyone. As I approach, the sliding glass doors open swiftly and silently.
Upon entering, the atmosphere transforms with a shift in sound. Conversations and children’s cries fill the air. Simultaneously, the aroma of hamburgers, chicken, and pizza wafts from the food court, enticing and guiding me towards its tempting scents.
As I stroll past Panda Express, the Chinese restaurant, they distribute complimentary samples of their teriyaki chicken. The flavors of the chicken are deliciously sweet and tender, instantly triggering a mouth-watering sensation. These complimentary tastings satiate my taste buds so much that it compels me to desire more. Thus, I find myself succumbing to their enticing tactics and purchasing their food.
As I stroll around, various aromas captivate my sense of smell, imparting unique atmospheres to each restaurant. Taking a seat at a table furnished with a firm but tolerable chair, I savor my teriyaki chicken dish. The table exhibits a shiny surface adorned with a pinkish swirl. Raising my gaze, I observe the presence of at least fifty additional tables.
Within the food court, there are various types of seating options available. There are smaller chairs that are specifically designed for kids, while there are also taller chairs that provide a vantage point overlooking the entire area. The presence of these chairs creates an atmosphere where little kids can freely roam around and enjoy themselves, often engaging in activities like playing tag and laughter. Meanwhile, a birthday celebration is taking place for a young child, with a long table adorned with a row of balloons of different colors.
Next to me, three women are engaged in conversation while one woman’s husband is on the phone, not paying attention. An employee multitasks by cleaning tables, changing trash, and mopping up spills as customers frequent the area. In close proximity to me, three men are having a business meeting.
In the mall, there are two men in their mid to late fifties and a younger man who is around thirty years old. They are consistently using a calculator and recording the outcomes. I find a spot in one of the mall’s numerous lounge areas and sit down.
Sitting beside me is an elderly woman who has taken a break to enjoy the surroundings. Similar to me, she is observing people. I can sense her gaze on me as I jot down notes, curious about the subject of my writing. An older man joins her and settles down to tie his shoelaces.
After sharing a lighthearted moment about their advanced age, he resumes his journey. Observing the passersby, I can’t help but notice some resembling zombies. These individuals meander aimlessly, seemingly oblivious to their surroundings. Their eyes display a determined focus, suggesting a clear purpose.
Perhaps they were either trying to catch a sale or get to work, but they remained focused on their original trajectory. Additionally, I observed that nearly everyone had a cellphone pressed to their ear, engaging in conversations as they made their way to their intended destination. Teenagers meandered through the crowd, in search of someone attractive to flirt with or an appealing individual to cross their path.
People at the mall are not carrying shopping bags; they are simply there to walk around. The elderly are determined to speed walk for the sake of their health. The mall hosts a variety of activities and attracts individuals with diverse intentions.
With its captivating beauty and enchanting atmosphere, this community within a community has an irresistible allure. While it doubles as a shopping mall that offers a plethora of enticing products, no monetary contribution is necessary unless one wishes to make a purchase. However, it serves a higher purpose than mere commerce; it provides a venue for connections and social interaction, a tranquil setting to unwind and indulge in entertainment, a haven to satiate one’s appetite, and an oasis promoting well-being.
