There were so many people. The high end department store was frequently busy, but not like this. John liked people, or at least he tried, particularly children but even he had his limits to the throngs of shoppers and their demands.
"I'm sorry, but we only have two left in a size 11."
"Well, can you check again? Just in case there's one hiding in the back."
"It's been a very popular boot, but with the recent sale--"
"Just check again, won't you?"
John sighed and resisted the urge to straighten his bow tie. They were all required to dress professionally, despite the terrible hours and wages, but he found usually customers were easier on him if he wore a bow tie and suspenders, and sometimes the bow tie made the children laugh.
"Certainly," John finally relented. He hated the tiny storage space the shoes were built into. Customers probably expected a large spacious room behind the employees only door, but the truth was it was a false wall which created a narrow hallway and a rickety ladder made of plywood. There was just barely enough room for one to get in and out. It was not inviting enough of a space to want to stay and rest.
John stood, looked at the spot where there were two women's sized 11 boots left and then back down at his wristwatch to make a show of looking.
As he stood there, however, he heard a strange noise. It sounded almost like an engine. Curious, John carefully navigated the thin stairs and went up to have a look, carefully parting shoes that were in the way.