While walking through a touristy stretch, I texted my daughters to see if they wanted souvenirs. My 11-year old asked for a classic “I ❤️ NY” hoodie. My 14-year old said, “I want anything like fire js feel the vibe.” (The pressure!)

In two and a half minutes of shopping, I got a master class in sales.

The moment I touched a hoodie, the shop owner was beside me.

“What size?”

“Small,” I said.

Before I knew it, the hoodie was in his hands and then quickly in a basket. The sign above read “$50.”

“We have everything,” he said. “What t-shirt would you like?”

“No worries. I’m looking for something else.”

“Take your time,” he said as he scurried off.

I spotted pajama pants: 2 for $15.

“If you like those, I’ll bring the hoodie down to $45,” he reappeared.

Done. Hoodie + pants = $60.

As we walked to the register, he pitched everything we passed: mugs, lighters, t-shirts.

“You don’t know anyone who needs a t-shirt?”

“Nobody I’d buy one for,” I winked.

“No problem. Look around. We have everything,” he encouraged.

At the register, I tried: “$50 for these?”

“No, $55.”

“Ok, fair.”

I tapped my Apple Watch.

“Cash?” he asked.

“I only have $20 cash.”

“Ok, that’s fine.”

I handed him the bill. He punched it in; my balance showed $30 instead of $35.

“I gave you a discount,” he said.

I paid the balance via Apple Pay. He handed me my bag.

“My friend, are you happy?” he asked.

“I am,” I said. “Are you?”

“I am,” he said.

We shook hands, and I left.