Page 105 of Fang
There’s a little mom-and-pop restaurant near campus. I wonder if they are hiring for any positions.
Stepping inside, I already like the vibe of the place. It feels homey. It reminds me of the feeling I get at the clubhouse. Like it’s family.
“Hello, dear. Can I help you?” a little old man asks from a table.
“I was looking for a manager?” I pose it as a question.
He waves to the seat across from him. “No managers here, but I own the place. How can I help you?”
“I was wondering if you had any positions available.”
He frowns. “We don’t get too busy during the week.”
“I’ll do anything. Even wash dishes,” I tell him.
I fight the urge to shift under his gaze as he studies me for a minute.
He smiles up at me. “You remind me of my Ruthanne.”
“I hope that is a good thing.”
“Oh, the very best. Been married to that woman for sixty-two years. I could use you as a dishwasher Monday through Thursday and to handle the dinner rush Friday and Saturday. We are closed Sundays. I can’t pay much. Maybe a few dollars over minimum wage, but you could keep any tips you earn.”
“I’m in. When do you want me to start?” I tell him eagerly.
“Well, let me go get you some new hire paperwork. Bring it in tomorrow, and we will get you on the schedule. Ruthanne will be happy to have a break from the dishes. All the water hurts her hands.”
“I’m happy to help.”
He disappears into the back before coming out with a packet of paperwork.
“You can take this home with you and bring it back tomorrow.”
“Thank you. You won’t regret it,” I promise.
“I know I won’t. I see the same light inside of you that I see in her.”
He gives me a hug before ushering me out the door.
I smile as I wave goodbye to him.
Me: I have good news for you.
Jensen: I’ll come get you. Where are you?
Me: Walking back to the dorm.
Jensen: Be there soon.
My head is in the clouds as I walk back to campus. So much so that I don’t see him right away.
“Killa Kam.”
His voice saying those words is the very last thing I ever wanted to hear.
Turning, I find Zak and three of his friends leaning on his car in the campus parking lot. They push off of it and walk my way.
“Fuck off, Zak.”
