(I am a female working in a reptile store, so it’s fairly common for people to question why I would be interested in snakes and lizards. On this particular day, I’m helping a woman and her 6-year-old daughter hold a snake.)

Customer: “So, do you have any reptiles of your own at home?”

Me: “Oh yes, I have a ton.” *laughs*

Customer: “How does that affect your dating life? I mean, boys can’t possibly think that’s attractive in a girl!”

(The customer’s question has caught me off guard, but I try to remain friendly.)

Me: “Um, it doesn’t really have an effect. It’s not usually an issue.”

Customer’s Daughter: “Mommy, can I get a pet snake?!”

Customer: “No, sweetie. We want YOU to have boyfriends.”

Me: *speechless*