I search for a neutral topic. I don’t want to stop talking to him, and I tell myself it’s just because he’s the first friendly person I’ve met.
I wasn’t planning on liking it here. Likinganyonehere.
“So…you work here?” I ask, studyinghisshirt.
“Nah,” he drawls. “I just love the feel of cheap polyester. Especially how you can never forget you’re wearing it, you know?”
I stare at him. “You’ve gotalotof attitude for someone wearing a Yankees cap a long way from home.”
Teddy chuckles. “Yes, I work here. Should probably get back to it, too, before I get fired.” He straightens. “I’ll see you around, June.”
“Bye, Johnny.”
There’s a pause where we just stare at each other for a few seconds. Then, he shakes his head a little and turns, walking down the aisle and out of sight.
I grab a box of Frosted Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop-Tarts and head in the opposite direction, toward the checkout line.
Today no longer feels like the worst day of my life.