She laughed. “I’m Mary. What can I get you?”
“Just a small coffee, please.”
“That will be $4.25.”
“Oh, look at him. He’s cute!”
I reached into my purse.
“That’s all you’re ordering?”
The voice came from behind the counter.
A man in his forties was watching me.
“Just coffee, please.”
“You’re planning to sit?”
“That’s all you’re ordering?”
“For a few minutes. I’m feeling a little lightheaded.”
Mary’s smile disappeared.
“Would you like some water?”
“That would be lovely. Thank you.”
The man looked at Benny.
“Then the dog can’t stay. Pet-friendly seating has a $30 minimum.”
“I’m feeling a little lightheaded.”
I stopped searching for my wallet.
“I’m sorry?”
“If you want the dog inside, you need to spend $30. Those are the rules.”
I looked toward the chalkboard.
“It doesn’t say that anywhere.”
“It’s my café. I’m telling you now, lady.”
