Ten minutes later, Leo walked out into the cool evening air. The box was heavy, a solid weight of potential in his arms. He wasn't just carrying a console; he was carrying a win. He’d managed his budget, kept his savings intact for emergencies, and finally secured the upgrade he’d earned.

As he reached his front door, he looked at the receipt. The next payment wasn't due for fourteen days. By then, he’d have another paycheck—and probably a Level 20 Paladin.

Marcus grinned and beckoned him inside. "You ever hear of ? It’s not like the old-school layaway where the store keeps the console in a dusty backroom until you're grey. You take the Xbox home tonight." Leo blinked. "What’s the catch? High interest?"

The neon sign of "Electric Avenue Electronics" flickered, casting a blue glow over Leo’s face as he pressed his nose against the glass. Inside, nestled on a pedestal like a crown jewel, sat the .