(Author’s note: No note, just write!)
Closing Time
by Miles H. Rost
“We’re locking up.”
The waitress teared up as we put on our jackets. I grabbed the last piece of biscuit on my way to the register.
“$24.50.”
I looked around at the reminiscent decor, all the things I loved that were on shelves just below the ceiling. I pulled a $100 out of my wallet, and gave it up.
“Are you sure…”
“Honey, this place gave me memories. Whatever isn’t for the bill, split it among you three.”
She finished ringing us up, smiling through it.
We walked out the door and saw her turn the sign to closed.
Forever.
Nothing more.
Music and Fiction 
This is a great story, Miles. You do a great job of portraying that bittersweet ending feeling. It’s too often the case these days, unfortunately. I hope you’re staying safe and healthy there.
Hard times. Every little or a lotta bit is appreciated.
So many small restaurants going under. Bittersweet scene.
Nostalgia comes at a warm feeling, one that money cannot replace. I enjoyed this.
The restaurants where you can sit down and have a meal are rare and inbetween these days, that’s for sure. We did tip the waitress who brought our carry out out to the car from LaRosa’s this last week. I feel for them as I know how very much with a wage of $2.30 hr that they depend on tips.
So sad. So many closings, and people who invested heart and soul into their cafes and restaurants left with nothing. It’s just wrong.
I’m so pleased I no longer run my pub and restaurant. I can’t imagine what I’d be going through now.
Here’s mine!
Sadly true story for so many neighborhood eateries about now. A powerfully written testimony to a simpler time.
Good story, Miles. That song used to be on a TV show didn’t it? Great tune.