Covid-chicken!

I woke up mid-morning with a hunger that preparing a meal couldn’t handle. I decided to go to the local chicken joint, a block down the street. I grabbed my credit card, and i.d then slipped it into my back pocket. After grabbing a mask, I headed out the door.

Scorching sun, burnt down on me. Sweat drenched my body before I made it up the streets. I thought to myself, “Was this really worth it?” I kept on my way, knowing hunger would be worse if I turned around.

I finally made it to the restaurant. The seats had caution tape on them, like it was some crime scene from the night before. I began to heavily breathe in and out. I continued to proceed toward the door only to stop and read the sign that said, “Only 10 people allowed in the lobby at a time.” I peeped in the window and looked around as much as I could. I saw no one.

I walked in, I ordered with my head held proud. When the cashier gave me the amount to pay, I looked at my credit card in hesitation. All the information from the news ran through my mind. How long can coronavirus stay on plastic?

I hurried and passed her the card that she grabbed with a glove, swiped then gave back to me along with the glove. Now, I must have her germs instead, I thought. I grabbed the glove and empty cup then walked to the soda machine.

I looked around the buttons and wondered how many hands had touched the buttons. This up to date machine doesn’t matter, because its touch screen and everyone has touched it.

I finally selected my soda, filled it up and walked away, only to get my order and walk out when the next customer was walking in.

[submitted on 6/9/2020]