I considered the question.
Then smiled.
“On one condition.”
“Anything.”
I untied the rubber apron.
And handed it to him.
“You wash dishes today.”
His eyes widened.
“Me?”
“You. From six until three. Then tomorrow, you come out front and learn everyone’s name.”
Chad stared at the apron.
Then slowly took it.
He pulled it over his expensive vest.
It was far too large.
A few customers chuckled.
Then Chad looked down at himself and laughed too.
“I look ridiculous.”
“You look like a dishwasher,” I said. “It’s honest work.”
Then he walked into the kitchen.
And I turned toward the dining room.
“Well,” I said, “I suppose everyone’s hungry.”
The diner erupted in cheers.
***
That morning, I helped prepare breakfast for seventy people.
Tanner, the young cook, worked beside me.
I showed him how Gus made biscuits and gravy.
No fennel.
No fancy spices.
Just good, simple food.
