Man, what a day! I swear, being a cashier in Pinerolo can be a wild ride. So, I roll into work at this little grocery store on Via Roma, right? The sun’s shining, birds are chirping, and I’m like, “Today’s gonna be chill.” Ha! Spoiler alert: it was NOT chill.
First customer walks in. This old dude, probably 80, with a cane and a hat that looks like it’s been through a war. He’s got a cart full of stuff—like, seriously, who needs 10 jars of tomato sauce? I mean, we’re in Pinerolo, not a pasta factory! Anyway, he’s taking his sweet time, and I’m just standing there, tapping my foot, thinking about my coffee break.
Then, outta nowhere, the power goes out! Like, boom! Darker than a cave. I’m standing there, half-expecting a bear to walk in. The old guy’s like, “What’s going on?” I’m like, “Dude, I have no idea!” So, I’m fumbling around for my phone, trying to use the flashlight.
Finally, the lights flicker back on, and I’m like, “Phew!” But then, the register won’t work. Great. Just great. I’m sweating bullets, and the line’s getting longer. People behind him are grumbling. I can hear someone say, “I should’ve gone to the market on Corso Torino.” Ugh, don’t remind me!
After what feels like an eternity, the register finally decides to cooperate. I ring up the old guy, and he pays with coins. Like, seriously? Who carries that many coins? I’m counting them like I’m in a heist movie.
Next up is this lady with a million coupons. I mean, I love a good deal, but c’mon! She’s got coupons for stuff we don’t even sell. “Do you have this brand of olive oil?” “Lady, we’re in Pinerolo, not Tuscany!” I’m trying to keep my cool, but inside, I’m like, “Just buy the oil already!”
Then, out of nowhere, my buddy Marco walks in. He’s got this huge grin, and I’m thinking, “What’s he up to?” Turns out, he just got back from a trip to the mountains. He’s all hyped about the views from Monte Freidour. I’m like, “Dude, I’m stuck here!” But I can’t help but smile. He’s got that energy, you know?
So, I’m chatting with him while ringing up customers. It’s a nice distraction. But then, this kid runs in, screaming about a lost puppy. My heart sinks. I’m a sucker for dogs. I’m like, “What street did you lose it on?” He’s like, “I think it was on Via San Donato!”
Now I’m torn. Do I help the kid or finish my shift? I’m thinking about that puppy, and I can’t just ignore it. So, I tell Marco to cover for me, and I dash out.
I’m running down Via San Donato, calling out for this pup. “Here, puppy! Where are you?” I feel like a madman. But then, I see it! This little furball hiding behind a bush. I scoop it up, and it’s wagging its tail like crazy. I’m like, “You little rascal!”
I take the pup back to the store, and the kid’s face lights up. It’s like I just won the lottery. The kid hugs me, and I’m like, “No biggie, just doing my job.” But inside, I’m feeling like a hero.
Finally, I get back to the register, and the line’s still there. But now, I’m riding this high. I’m ringing up customers like a pro, cracking jokes, and even making the lady with the coupons laugh.
By the end of the day, I’m exhausted but happy. Pinerolo can be a crazy place, but it’s home. I love the streets, the people, even the chaos. I head home, thinking about tomorrow. Who knows what’ll happen next? But I’m ready for it. Bring it on, Pinerolo!