05-10-2008, 12:37 AM
Charles laughed at the man's words. He understood the sentiment easily enough, but something about the eloquent way in which he spoke intimidated him.
He was in the presence of an educated man, and that made him a bit more self-conscious about the way he talked.
'How can I come off as witty and intelligent without seeming to mock him?" he mused.
Without realizing it, Charles was seeking the silent approval of this complete stranger, perhaps in an unconscious attempt to compensate for his lack of paternal attention.
At last he replied, "you've got that right. Can you imagine it? 'Welcome to Menewsha Mart! If you don't pay, go the heck away!"
He laughed weakly at his poor excuse for a joke, realizing how ridiculous it sounded the minute he said it. Fortunately, a high-pitched yelp coming from the direction of the regisration counter provided a distraction.
He turned to look at the bronze woman.
"Did she just...?"
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