A Not-So-Sweet Deal

I’ve loved hot tea since I was young, but it took me a while to realize this was not common in the southern United States. My family and I are driving back from the beach and stop at a small roadside diner for breakfast. I’m about twelve at the time.

Waitress: “And what would you like to drink?”

Me: “What kind of tea do you have?”

Waitress: “Sweet or unsweet.”

Me: “No, I meant hot teas, like green tea.”

The waitress gives me a confused look.

Me: “Do you have hot tea?”

Waitress: *More confused look* “Well, I guess I can put some iced tea in the microwave for you if you want.”

Me: *Long pause* “You know what, that’s okay. I’ll just have orange juice, please.”