Started Shakey But Ended Shakey

(My grandmother and I go to a diner while at an anime convention. Due to the con, a biker event that week, and the diner being close to a resort, it’s packed. We finally get seated after a bit of a wait.)

Waitress: “I’m sorry about the wait. Your food might take a bit longer as well.”

Me: “Oh, it’s no problem! Nothing you guys can really do about the crowd.”

(We order our food along with our drinks, so they can get it in the kitchen faster. After another wait, the waitress brings out our food. She’s visibly stressed, and probably near tears.)

Waitress: “Sorry about the wait. Here you go!

Grandmother: “Oh, that was quicker than we expected! You guys are doing great!”

Me: “Thank you so much! I really hope nobody’s giving you grief over the crowd and waiting times.”

(She smiles, and goes off to help the other tables. After eating, we order milkshakes. When we get the receipt to pay, we realize she didn’t charge us for the shakes.)

Me: “Excuse me, I think you made a mistake. The milkshakes aren’t on here.”

Waitress: “I know. You guys have made this whole mess a little bit better, so I figured it’d be a small reward. Have a great day!”

(We left her a $20 tip on a $15 meal.)