CHAPTER FIFTY-TWO: The Time Has Come!

Armed with a stack of books on hospitality, customer service, and etiquette that I bought in a book’s store, I delve into my studies with fervor. I pore over each page, absorbing the intricacies of table setting, the art of suggestive selling, and the importance of a genuine smile. But it isn't just books that fuels my education; YouTube grants me a wealth of resources at my fingertips. The video tutorials become my nighttime companions, guiding me through the finer points of wine service and the graceful ballet of tray carrying.

As the days pass, I apply myself tirelessly to my newfound knowledge. I greet each customer with warmth, navigate the bustling restaurant floor with poise, and execute orders with precision. I watch as my confidence grows, mirrored in the approving nods of my coworkers and the satisfied smiles of the patrons I serve.

A week has slipped by in a blur of activity when Marcus, the restaurant supervisor, summons me to his office. My heart flutters nervously as