Man, what a day! I’m tellin’ ya, being a bartender in Saint-Thibault-des-Vignes is like riding a rollercoaster blindfolded. One minute you’re chillin’, the next you’re dodging drama like it’s a game of dodgeball.
So, I roll into work at Le Café des Vignes, right? It’s on Rue de la République, the heart of the action. I’m just setting up, pouring some drinks, when BAM! A couple of regulars, Jean and Marie, start arguing over who’s got the best wine. Like, c’mon, it’s a Tuesday! Can’t we just sip and chill? But nooo, they’re throwing around words like “tannins” and “bouquet.” I’m just here for the tips, people!
Then, outta nowhere, this dude stumbles in. I swear he’s had one too many at the bar down the street, Le Bistrot de la Vigne. He’s yelling about how he’s the “King of Saint-Thibault.” I’m like, “Bro, you’re just a guy in a stained shirt.” But he’s got this wild energy, and I can’t help but laugh. I mean, who doesn’t love a little chaos, right?
Around 5 PM, the sun starts setting over the Parc de la Mairie. It’s beautiful, but I’m stuck behind the bar. I can see families picnicking, kids running around. I’m jealous, man! I wanna be out there, not stuck pouring drinks. But then, a group of young folks comes in, all hyped up. They’re celebrating someone’s birthday. They order a round of shots, and I’m like, “You sure about that?” But hey, it’s their party, not mine.
So, I pour the shots, and they start singing. I mean, they’re belting out “Happy Birthday” like they’re on a stage at the Théâtre de Saint-Thibault. It’s loud, it’s messy, and I’m loving every second of it. I can’t help but join in, and suddenly, I’m the bartender and the backup singer. Who knew I had it in me?
But then, the mood shifts. This guy, let’s call him “Mr. Grumpy,” walks in. He’s got that look, you know? The “I hate fun” look. He orders a whiskey, straight up, and I can feel the vibe drop. I try to lighten the mood, crack a joke, but he just glares at me. Like, dude, it’s a bar, not a funeral!
I’m pouring his drink, and I spill a little. Not on purpose, I swear! But he flips out. “Watch it!” he barks. I’m like, “Chill, man! It’s just a splash!” But he’s not having it. I’m fuming inside. Who does he think he is? I’m about to lose it, but then I remember—deep breaths, right?
Just when I think the night can’t get crazier, the fire alarm goes off. Seriously! I’m thinking, “Is this a joke?” Everyone’s panicking, running for the door. I’m just standing there, like, “Do I grab the cash or the cocktails?” Priorities, right?
Turns out, it was a false alarm. Phew! But the vibe is shot. People are outside, chatting, and I’m stuck inside cleaning up the mess. I’m grumbling to myself, thinking about how I just wanted a chill night.
Finally, around midnight, things calm down. The crowd thins out, and I’m left with a few stragglers. We’re all sharing stories, laughing about the chaos. I realize, despite the madness, I love this job. I love Saint-Thibault-des-Vignes. The streets, the people, the unexpected moments.
As I close up, I take a moment to breathe it all in. The night air is cool, and I can hear the distant sounds of laughter from the park. I smile, thinking about tomorrow. Who knows what’ll happen next? But one thing’s for sure—I’ll be ready for it. Cheers to another wild day in Saint-Thibault!