Burgers, Limousines, and a Prometheus Mission

The lunchtime rush finally subsided. Most of the customers left, leaving behind dirty tables and welcome silence.

Mr. Kim came into the kitchen, looking tired. He grabbed a bottle of water and took a large gulp.

"Good job, kid," he said. "We handled it well."

He looked at me. "And thanks. For letting it go, earlier."

"He didn't deserve it," I said, cleaning the griddle.

"I know," said Mr. Kim. "But sometimes, you have to pick your battles. This restaurant is all I have. I can't afford to have problems with the soldiers from the base."

He sighed. "It's not always fair. But that's life."

We worked in silence for a while.

Then, the bell on the front door rang.

"I'll get it," said Mr. Kim.

I heard him greet the customer. His voice was polite, as usual.

Then, his tone changed. It became tense.