Each jab chipped at Stephanie’s resolve, leaving her feeling raw and small. She told herself she’d handled entitled customers before, but today, on her last day, the sting was sharper. With a slow breath, she forced herself to smile, swallowing down her pride and anger.
Stephanie nodded politely, telling herself she wouldn’t let Karen ruin her day. She’d survived six years in this job; surely she could endure one last shift. Yet, the insults lingered in her mind, slicing deeper than she wanted to admit. Today, Karen’s words felt especially cruel.