Storytime: Fragile Masculinity.

It really is sad how like fragile some men’s egos are. And not sad in a sympathetic way. Sad in a borderline humorous way.

I remember this one customer interaction I had in a Burger King drive-thru back in 2018/2019. I was in the back window, because apparently people I work for like putting me in the positions where I interact with customers.

I had just cashed out this order for some dude. I don’t remember what he looked like, except that he may have been wearing a ball-cap. He was also driving a black pickup truck. And it was one of those big ones that probably has that loud ass engine that makes you wonder if he’s maybe over-compensating for something.

It’s a normal interaction up till this point. He’s ordered his food, handed me the bills, and I am just over there collecting his change to hand it back to him.

Something about me handing this man back his change really pissed him off. I accidentally brushed this dude’s hand while I was handing it back to him, and he just went “don’t fucking touch me!”

Like, damn.

I didn’t say anything to him after that. I was kind of a little shocked. Like man, did my touch activate something in him? I didn’t feel that same spark. I did, however, immediately go to wash my hands. I don’t remember why at the time. It just felt like a good idea. I didn’t know what sick germs that man was carrying.

And it’s not like I was actively advertising my sexuality, especially during that point in my life. I was a baby gay back then. Which makes me wonder, what was this guy’s problem? Did he feel my soft hands touch his and get excited? Was getting his change worth catching “The Gay?” Because honestly, if I knew he was going to act like that, I would have kept his damn money.

I wish I was more sure about myself back then, because I could have really fucked with him. Like whether in an innocent way like “Oh, I’m sorry sir. Did you not want your change?” or in a more evil way “Well, gosh sir. I’m flattered that my touch is riling you up, but I already have a partner.”

Has anyone else had encounters like this? Would anyone like to hear any more work stories? I have a few of them.