“You’ve brought the wrong size” His garlic breath loudly complained.
“I brought the next size up sir, as you requested“ I retorted blandly.
I was down by the guys feet, taking a shoe from near his smelly sock.
I needed a gas mask for this, some men think that washing their feet was a monthly occurrence. I had already been back twice from the stockroom because he kept changing his mind. This sweaty guy was so getting on my nerves!
”Jump to it Bitch, the next size I need”
I was astounded near to tears and about to counter with a tongue lashing but could not give him that satisfaction.
I spied you and my day instantly brightened. You sat demurely across the foot clothiers floor, your slim long legs crossed, patiently waiting for assistance. Our eyes met and you gave me a tender glance and half smile. In that moment you knew exactly what pain and frustration I was feeling ,it effortlessly melted away.
Smelly man kept protesting but, he was blocked out of my senses. I focused on you, as the only true person there. I had to be your attendant quickly. and get rid of him.
“That’s the largest size we have in stock” I lied blatantly.
”Can't get anymore till after the holiday” I had to avert my eyes as the lie lengthened.
He stared intently searching for the truth; then grabbed his old shoe, clumsily putting it on and left ,muttering obscenities. The shop was closing in on me, people watching, I started to well up, a tear coming to my eye.
In an instant, you were beside me offering calm. I gave you a hug like a lost friend and you didn’t back away. I was far away from pain now in your arms. I composed myself, as all around continued to watch me; as if I were a freak. Hadn’t they seen a tear in anyone’s eye before. I wanted to link your arm and leave the tedious humdrum behind, but you sensed my loss and took control. You continued to gently hold my hand, sitting yourself down, retaining my fingers in yours. I was able to rebuild my composure from deep in your eyes, able to stand unaided. That instant lasted an eternity, everyone else disappeared from view.
You spoke softly to me, I being the only one, who could hear your tender inquiry “feeling better now Honey” you warmly asked.
I ,as if in a dream, mouthed breathlessly “Yes, Thanks, I am sorry to be so weak and feeble”.
”I understand” you said sincerely.
We knew then we wanted to see each other in a more private place, but you were the first to propose it.
“Come see me after you’ve finished, I only live down the road” you kindly seemed to insist.
I mildly complained “But I’ve only got a works uniform here I cant go out like this”.
“I have some spare clothes if you require them” you casually informed me.
“Oh if you don’t mind me freshening up there, then fine” I half inquired.