What Have I Done To Deserve This?
‘Can I help you?’
‘No, thanks. I'm just looking.’
‘What are you looking for?’
‘Oh, nothing in particular.’
‘I see.’
‘You don't mind my looking, do you?’
‘Feel free.’
‘Thank you.’
‘The shirts and tops are here; the shorts and trousers are over there; and the jerseys and jackets are around the corner. Just shout if you need any help.’
‘Thank you.’
‘By the way, we’ve got a three-for-two offer on ties and scarves.’
‘Yes, I saw.’
‘Miserable weather, eh? Good for business, mind. That's a lovely shirt.’
‘Hm?’
‘I said, That's a lovely shirt.’
‘Yes, it is.’
‘Would you like to try it on?’
‘Not now, thanks.’
‘What size were you looking for?’
‘I wasn't.’
‘I'd say you're a large. Shall I measure you?’
‘Maybe later.’
‘You're not from here, are you?’
‘No.’
‘American?’
‘English.’
‘I’ve got a cousin in England.’
‘Whereabouts?’
‘Edinburgh.’
‘That’s Scotland.’
‘Yeah. We’re thinking of going to London in August. Do you know any good family hotels? We’re not looking for anything fancy; just somewhere to kip for the night, basically. Those shirts might be a bit tight.’
‘Sorry, I don’t know London that well. Well, thanks. Bye.’
‘Lovely parks, they say.’ . . .