I’m a freshman in college. One of our baggers, a guy who recently graduated college, always comes to my register just to chat. A customer with a very large order has come to my line. My coworker is standing in the bagging area, trying to start a conversation, not paying attention to the growing pile of groceries that I’m scanning. My customer, an older lady, is still unloading at the other end of the register.
Me: “[Coworker], start bagging or go away.”
He laughs.
Coworker: “It’s cute when you’re frustrated!”
I let out an annoyed sigh and start scanning with one hand and bagging with the other. He keeps throwing comments at me, laughing at his own jokes. My customer finishes unloading and shoves her cart into the bagging area with force. The bagger jumps out of the way before it hits him.
Coworker: “HEY!”
My customer starts grabbing the already bagged items and loading her own cart. She gives my coworker a nasty look.
Customer: *Loudly* “Young man, are you going to help your cashier or keep striking out with her?”
I restrain my laughter with great difficulty. My coworker silently starts bagging.
Customer: “That’s what I thought.”
She pays. I hand her the receipt with a HUGE smile.
Me: “Here is your receipt, ma’am. Thank you so much.”
Customer: “You’re welcome, dear. Have a wonderful day!”
Coworker: “Can I help you to your car?”
Customer: “NO!”
She grabs her cart and walks out. I snort.
Me: “She told you!”
Coworker: “Shut up.”
I see our manager emerge from the front office. When she catches someone goofing off in front of customers, she comes down hard.
Manager: *In a stern tone* “[Coworker]! CART DUTY!”
Coworker: “But it’s hot outside and I’m helping [My Name]!”
Manager: “No, you’re not. Go get carts. [My Name], I’ll find you a different bagger. “
I burst out laughing as he headed to the parking lot.
