saved by the bing


 

As a driver, I always strive to be courteous and engaging in conversation. While I wouldn't describe myself as exceptionally intelligent, I possess a broad range of knowledge, similar to Cliff Clavin. I typically find common ground with my passengers. My phone alerted me to another fare in my queue, and I recognized the pickup location as a bar in the Melrose District, known for its LGBTQ-friendly restaurants and bars. The elderly man I picked up appeared slightly inebriated, with bloodshot eyes and disheveled hair. I remarked, "It looks like you've had a great time." He nodded, mentioning he had been drinking since brunch. It was around 5 pm when I picked him up. "Did you enjoy your day?" I inquired. This question sparked a detailed account of his day. I always aim to get my passengers talking, as it seems to improve their mood. He shared that he was now alone, following the passing of his husband. I mentioned that I, too, was alone. "What can you do?" I said. "Just live your life and have fun." He smiled, agreeing, "You got that right." We arrived at his trailer park, and as I dropped him off, my phone alerted me to another waiting fare. "Oh, did you get another ride?" he asked. "I did," I replied. "Oh, too bad, I was going to invite you in." I declined, stating, "I must keep working, but thank you for the invitation." Internally, I thought, saved by the bing. I was flattered that someone found me attractive, but I'm straight as an arrow. Plus, he lived in a trailer, eliminating any notion of a lucrative encounter. 😉

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