Chapter 8 — Marcus Confronts Todd Over False Accusations — Then Checks the Damage Report
Marcus lowered the tablet slowly.
He let out a long, heavy breath that stirred the collar of his uniform shirt.
He turned his gaze away from the bright screen and fixed his eyes directly on Todd.
Marcus reminded Todd of the strict employee code regarding customer harassment and false liability claims.
You know the rules of this establishment inside and out, Todd, Marcus said.
Accusing a paying guest of intentional property damage is a severe violation of our service policy.
Todd shifted uncomfortably from one foot to the other.
His mouth opened and closed, but no coherent defense came out.
Marcus stepped closer to the edge of the red vinyl booth.
He leaned down slightly to inspect the physical condition of the table.
The manager checked the table and confirmed Caleb’s clothes were soaked through.
Marcus ran his hand over the sticky wooden surface where the iced tea had pooled.
He lifted his fingers and saw the dark, wet residue coating his skin.
He then looked down at Caleb’s trembling hands and the soaked fabric of the boy’s shirt.
Marcus pulled out his service book to write up a formal disciplinary notice.
He unclipped a silver pen from the leather cover with a sharp click.
The pages of the black logbook flipped open as he pressed the spine against his forearm.
Marcus began jotting down the exact date, time, and violation code under the server’s employee ID.
Todd stared at the moving pen tip with visible panic spreading across his face.
Wait, Marcus, we can handle this privately without putting it in the official permanent file, Todd stammered.
Marcus did not look up from the white paper.
Todd is ordered to immediately stop working and step away from the floor.