Paying It Forwards And Backwards

(I am pulling up to a drive-thru at a coffee shop when I notice my coworker in the vehicle ahead of mine. I don’t think that my coworker notices me pulling into line behind her.)

Me: *placing my order* “Hi, I would like a large iced mocha. Also, I would like to surprise the vehicle ahead of mine and pay for their order. Will you tell them their drink has already been paid and to have a nice day.”

Worker: “Oh, that is so nice of you. So the total of both drinks will be [total].”

(I pull up to the window. And try to hand over the money to pay for the drinks.)

Worker: “Sorry, I can’t take your money.”

Me: “What do you mean? Why not?”

Worker: *laughing* “Because the customer ahead of you insisted on paying for your drink. I’ve never had this happen before.”

(I guess my coworker and I both had the idea to surprise each other. It made my day.)