filter for one of my regulars, I see Darren standing in line at the counter. I plaster a smile on my face, print the ticket, and hand the filter to the customer. As he walks away, Darren steps up to the counter, all smiles.
“Hey, Aubrey. I need a-”
“I ought to call the fucking cops on you right now!” I hiss.
“For asking for a set of spark plugs?” Darren says with a grin that makes my skin crawl. I can’t imagine what I ever saw in this creep.
“Get the fuck out before I have one of the boys show you what it feels like when a wrench goes upside your head.”
“Whoa, there,” Darren says, taking a half step back and holding up his hands. “What would the service manager say to you threatening a customer like this?”
“Let me call him and we’ll find out,” I say stabbing my finger down on the intercom. “Service manager to parts. Service manager to parts,” I say.
John is there in seconds. “What is it Aubrey?”
“Mr. Darren Kelley, here, wants some spark plugs. I suggested that it would be best for him to leave.”
I see John’s eyes narrow. “Get his plugs,” John says, his voice hard.
I know what bike Darren rides, so I don’t even ask what he wants. I quickly return with the plugs.
“I need the wires, too,” Darren says smugly.
I grit my teeth and get those as well.
“Is that all Mr. Kelley?” John asks.
“I think that is all for today.”
“Then, pay for your items and get out.”
“Jesus. Everyone is so friendly around here,” Darren says taking his items and turning away. “It’s like somebody’s cat died or something.”
I can see John’s jaw muscle bulge, as he grits his teeth. He says nothing, as he follows Darren first to the pay counter, then out the door.
Enjoyed the excerpt? Break Away by A. L. Summers is available for purchase in the Kindle Store.
Bohumil Hrabal, Michael Heim, Adam Thirlwell