The sun blazes high over the barrio of Washington Heights, casting shimmering reflections off the cool waters of the local pool. The air buzzes with anticipation and excitement as neighbors gather around, all abuzz with the latest news. It's lottery day, and the winning number for $96,000 has just been announced.

The vibrant chatter and splashing of water fill the air, a symphony of summer sounds. Everyone’s animated, imagining the life-changing possibilities that come with $96,000. Conversations weave through the humid air like melodies in a song.

The dreams, the schemes, the hopes all float like the echoes of the city’s heartbeat. But as the numbers are scrutinized and checked, a collective sigh of disappointment ripples through the crowd.

"No one’s got the winning ticket? Seriously? After all that hype?" Carla exclaims in a disappointed tone as she checks her lottery ticket again.