Question: Care to share an embarrassing story?
Last Friday, the wife and I decided to watch Toy Story 3 (great movie, btw). We decided to grab a bite to eat first at the mall’s food court.
After ordering a couple of hot dogs from Hot Dog on a stick, I waited near the counter while the wife searched for a table. I noticed a woman around my age nearby. She was staring at me.
After a few seconds, I took a deep breath, gave her direct eye contact and smiled.
She immediately blurted out, “I”m sorry. I just have to ask …”
She then pointed to my left hand and said, “Are you really married?”
I laughed. I explained to her that I’ll be married for 4 years by this September.
Her jaw dropped. “Oh my God. How old are you!?”
“How old do you think I am?” I replied.
“Well, since you’re married… I’d say 19. But you really look 15 to me.”
I shook my head. “I’m 30.”
I didn’t realize that her jaw can drop any lower until this moment. The Hot Dog on a Stick employee kindly interrupted and informed me that my order was ready.
As I was about to pick up the food, the stunned woman shouted to the employee, “Can you believe this guy is 30 years old!?”
I looked at the employee who was actually a young teenage girl. She had the biggest grin, showing her colored metallic braces. Her eyes lit up and her voice was full of excitement. “Really!?”
That’s when several more people stared at me.
I heard myself murmur, “Oh boy.” After picking up my food, I power-walked to my table and told the wife what just happened. She shook her head and grumbled a few inaudible words soon after.
Looking back, it would have been ideal if the woman thought I looked 21 years old. But I guess I’ll have to wait a while. 15!? C’mon! You can’t even legally drive by yourself at that age in California. Sigh.