Demanding Understanding

(I work the front counter of the repair center. The customer coming to get her car is notorious for trying every trick in the book to not pay for repairs. Because she’s such a problem, she always gets a VERY generous discount.)

Me: “Okay, Mrs. [Name], that will be $150 today for installation and the interior detail.”

Customer: “I was only supposed to pay for a part. I’m only giving you $50.”

Me: “Unfortunately, you have to pay for the installation of the part, the taxes, and also your detail. How would you like to pay?”

Customer: “What?”

Me: “How would you like to pay? Cash, check, or charge?”

Customer: “What? What are you saying?!”

Me: “I’m saying you have to pay me.”

Customer:“WHAT? I DON’T UNDERSTAND WHAT YOU’RE SAYING!”

Me: “Well—”

Customer: “WHAT ARE YOU SAYING? I CAN’T HEAR YOU!”

(I scream right back at her.)

Me: “HOW ARE YOU PAYING YOUR $150!? I HAVE YOUR KEYS AND YOU WILL NOT BE GETTING THEM UNTIL I GET PAYMENT!”

Customer: “…Do you take Visa?”