This Needs To Change

(I am the employee in this story. I have just finished ringing up a customer’s items.)

Me: “Okay, that will be $23.15.”

Customer: “Here, can you break a 50 for me? I’ve got 15 cents here, too.”

(I take her money and immediately shut the register drawer without thinking. I’m preoccupied with how I should bag her numerous (small) purchases when she speaks up, startling me.)

Customer: “Excuse me; can I please get my change?”

(I realize my error and am stricken with embarrassment. She’s looking at me like I’ve just sprouted an extra head.)

Me: “Oh, my gosh, I am so sorry! I’ll get it for you right away.”

(I open the drawer and hurriedly count out some bills for her.)

Me: “Here you are.”

Customer: “…this is only $17.”

Me: “And I am so sorry again! Let me try this one more time.”

(I finally get her the correct change, apologizing profusely and feeling very humbled. I don’t have mental slips often, but when I do, it’s bad!)