Abel Abreha of Charlotte says a lucky feeling helped him win a $1 million lottery prize.

“When I have a good feeling, I get a scratch-off ticket,” Abreha said. “I usually win something when I do.”

On Tuesday, that feeling prompted Abreha to stop at the Neighbors Mart on Lasalle Street in Charlotte. He bought a $10 Carolina Millions scratch-off ticket.

He couldn’t believe it when he realized he won the game’s top prize.

“I started pacing, and holding my head,” Abreha said. “I kept thinking, ‘Is this for real?’ I was so excited I couldn’t sleep.”

He claimed his prize Wednesday at lottery headquarters in Raleigh. He had the choice of taking a $1 million annuity that has 20 payments of $50,000 a year or a lump sum of $600,000. Abreha chose the lump sum, and after federal and state tax withholdings received $417,009. He plans to use the money to buy a new house.

Carolina Millions launched in October of 2016 with eight top prizes of $1 million. Four top prizes remain.

Ticket sales from games like Carolina Millions made it possible for the lottery to raise more than $634 million for the state last year. For details on how lottery funds have made a difference in Mecklenburg County, click on the “For Education” section of the lottery’s website.