Old age

It had been ages since Parker had gotten out of the condo.

Literally, ages.

After a few rather usual first decades of life, Parker had managed to amass considerable wealth.

Then, as the first longevity treatments came out, Parker had been wealthy enough to afford them and lucky enough to select the right ones.

After a few more decades, Parker had committed to the goal of amassing an even larger fortune, so as to be able to afford future treatments.

The first couple of centuries were spent mostly working.

Then, as the money kept piling on top of itself, Parker finally managed to enjoy life for another couple of centuries.

At some 500 years of age, Parker faded from the limelight of being the oldest living person on Earth and retired to an immense condo where there would be no need to interact with common people.

Every year, on the day, Parker’s age would be celebrated in the news across the globe.

Sometimes, as a side note.

Other times, usually every ten years, with a bit more depth.

And, of course, every century, with all the possible pomp.

But, still, Parker wouldn’t leave the condo.

Most people believed that Parker was now afraid to die, and not going outside could possibly help to avoid accidents of all sorts.

The reality, however, was much grimmer.

It was, basically, shame.

It was almost embarrassing, but there was only so much that plastic surgery could do to deal with ever-growing noses and ears.