(I’m mostly through serving a middle-age gentleman a take-away lasagne. Up until now, the transaction has been pleasant and I feel I’ve been a helpful and kind server, letting him know of various options and answering his high volume of questions in a patient manner.)
Me: “Okay, so just the lasagne and the energy drink today?”
Customer: *mutters something unintelligible*
Me: “Sorry?”
Customer: *mutters some more*
Me: “I’m sorry, I’m having trouble hearing you. What are you saying?”
Customer: *more muttering*
(I decide not to push the matter and give him his total. The customer continues to mutter under his breath, but I can’t make out any of what he’s saying.)
Me: “Here’s your change. Enjoy your meal!”
Customer: *mutters some more, staring at me*
Me: “I’m sorry, I can’t hear what you’re saying.”
(I then lean forward really close so I can hear him.)
Customer, in an angry voice: I said ‘why are you in such a b*tchy mood?’.
I am utterly taken-aback, especially since he sounds so angry and I’ve never really received complaints before.
Me: “Oh, I’m sorry. I didn’t realise that’s how I was coming across.”
Customer: “I didn’t ask for an apology. I asked why you’re in such a b*tchy mood.”
Me: “Well, I don’t know what to say. I’m not in a bad mood. I’m sorry if that’s how it’s seemed.”
Customer: “Nah, you’re just a b*tch.”
Me: “Um…well, I’m sorry you feel that way. I thought I was being quite nice. Anyway, here’s your lasagne. I really hope you enjoy it.”
(The customer grumbled some more and then walked off scowling. But I noticed him standing outside staring at me for several minutes afterwards. It was actually rather scary!
