“Oh, I took care of it.”
Last June, I celebrated my 30th birthday in NYC. I had just flown in, and went to a little Italian place on 9th Ave. called Cascina. I was alone, and the place was small and cramped, so a couple was seated next to me. I could hear everything they discussed, as the woman was literally about a foot away from me on the same bench. They began discussing Broadway, and the show they were about to see. Since I was also in NYC to take in Broadway, I interrupted their conversation telling them I could hear everything they are saying, and wondered what show they were about to see. They introduced themselves, David and Andrea. David worked and lived in Manhattan, and Andrea drove in from Jersey. Soon we were having a lively conversation about NYC, theater, and life in general.
As it neared 7:30pm, I would have to leave for my show, so I motioned the waiter for my check. I excused myself to use the bathroom, and when I came back, I still did not have my check. I kept signaling the waiter, but he never came with one. I complained to David I still needed my check, and he said “Oh, I took care of it.” I was stunned. My meal included wine, dinner, appetizer, and dessert – had to have been over $60. I am amazed that my conversation skills alone warranted a free meal, but I was so grateful for such a wonderful birthday gift.
- Chris Ranous
