WIPpet Wednesday: Spare Change

Well, it’s been interesting around my house. My spouse turned out to have pneumonia, not bronchitis. Meanwhile, we had a double birthday party for the kids and a visitor from out of town. Needless to say, it’s been a wild week here. I think we’re finally back on track, though. At least, I hope so!

On the good news front, we found out our younger child will be in an inclusive education classroom. This is the best possible placement for her. She doesn’t need a self-contained special education classroom, but her learning needs make it an ideal environment for her. I think this is an indication of a great year to come.

Now for my WIPpet. If you’ll recall, I started posting a new story last week, and I’m sharing from the first chapter. This week’s post is immediately following last week’s entry. I’ll save the follow-up to this conversation for next week. This exchange is going to come back to haunt Adam. Let’s just say it’s unwise to be a jerk to someone you want something from.

WIPmath: 8/12 = 8 + 1 + 2 = 11 paragraphs.

Content warning: Some swears, a bit of rude humor, and liberal reference to condoms. Nothing explicit; it’s only a conversation.

Adam returned his attention to the counter, but he stood rooted to the spot, momentarily having forgotten why he was there in the first place. The low throat-clearing startled him, and he shifted his gaze from Sexy’s torso to his face. The man’s lips twitched, but he didn’t smile.

“May I help you?” he asked.

“Uh…” Adam mentally slapped himself. He was not one to lose his words over anyone, no matter how attractive. Time to take control back. He stepped up to the counter. “Yeah. I need a couple of things.” He lowered his voice and put on what he hoped was his sexiest expression. “I came in to get condoms.”

Once again, amusement flashed on the other man’s face. “No problem. You can leave a donation here.” He shoved a jar forward on the counter.

Adam almost laughed at the pink paper label taped to the front. It read, Condoms—Tip Jar. Still feeling off-kilter, he snipped, “They’re not free?”

“They are. We’re asking for donations because we offer a lot of of free stuff here, and it helps offset the cost when people give a little.” He looked Adam up and down. “I’m guessing you’re non-traditional or a graduate student, so maybe you can spare some change.”

Adam sneered, but he reached into his pocket for his wallet. He withdrew a dollar and stuck it in the jar then held out his hand. The other man reached under the counter and came back up with one condom, which he slapped into Adam’s palm.

“You have got to be kidding me. You want me to pay a dollar per condom? I’m going to need more than one,” Adam huffed. “For less than that price, I could buy them at the drug store.”

The man laughed. “I’m messing with you. You’re being a huge dick about making a small donation to the health center, so payback is fair.” He snorted. “Although, look who thinks he’s such a stud. If you need that many, why not buy them at the store?”

“Because I live in student housing, and this is more convenient. If you must know, yes, I have an important date.”

“I’m sure.” The man’s smile was condescending. “Fine.” He reached under the counter again and came up with a handful of condoms. “Enjoy them, with my blessing.”

Like what you read? You should see the other entries. Read, add and share if you want. Thanks to K. L. Schwengel for making space for us. Happy reading and writing!