Not Taking A Shine To That Request

I work in a very busy store in a shopping centre that does key cutting, shoe repair, and polishing. I’ve always got multiple jobs on the go. A guy strolls up to the counter holding a pair of scuffed dress shoes, clearly worn but pricey.

Customer: “I don’t want the full shine, just give them a little polish on one toe so I can see if it’s worth it.”

Me: “We don’t really do sample shines.”

Customer: “Why not? I just want to see if it’ll make a difference.”

Me: “I can assure you it will. That’s kind of the whole business model.”

Customer: “Come on, just a dab. If I like it, I’ll pay for the rest. I’m not asking for much.”

Me: “No, just some free labour and the illusion of a negotiation.”

Customer: “So you’re saying no?”

Me: “I’m saying if you want a sample of a ‘spit and polish,’ I can give you the spit?”

Customer: *Leaving grumpily.* “Could’ve just said ‘no’.”