The new Jane
In Spotlights ganz eigenem Londoner Pub hat sich Peggys Tochter Jane vorgenommen, ein besserer Mensch zu werden. Ein guter Vorsatz mit Tücken. Von INEZ SHARP
“I do feel lucky to be working here”
Peggy: Sean, take the lamb out to that couple on table six, would you?
Sean: I should be in the kitchen, not serving the customers.
Peggy: I know, pet, but Jane will be here any minute to help out.
Phil: Since when have we ever relied on Jane to be punctual?
Jane: Since now, Phil.
Phil: Sorry, I didn’t see you there.
Peggy: You’re on the dot, darling. Now, can you take the lamb to table six and then Sean can get back to the kitchen. Jane: Will do. I brought my own apron and I wasn’t sure if I should wear a mask, but I brought one anyway. In fact, I brought a couple of spares.
Sean: Wow, you are organized!
Jane: It’s all part of the new me. Being locked up gave me the time to think about what’s important and I’ve decided that it’s time to give up my selfish ways and become a kinder, better person.
Phil: I’ve heard that before.
Jane: I know, you don’t believe me, but you’ll see.
Peggy: Now, let me check the tables and make sure people aren’t sitting too close. Jane: Is it our responsibility to do that? Phil: That’s what we were told.
Jane: Well, I can help by keeping an eye on the punters.
Peggy: Just be nice and tell people as politely as you can to keep their distance. Jane: That shouldn’t be a problem. After all, we want people to keep coming back.
Phil: Exactly. So lots of “pleases” and “thank-yous”.
Jane: Will do. Now, I just need to wash my hands. I’ll be back in a sec.
Peggy: Good to see my daughter looking so cheerful.
Phil: Simone said Jane was really nice during lockdown — coming from a teenager, that really means something.
Sean: Here are the orders for tables three and four.
Jane: Ok, I’m ready for action. I’ll take those straight out.
Peggy: Remember to check on people’s drinks.
Jane: I’m on it.
Phil: We had a reservation for table seven for 12.30. ,
Peggy: I think that’s them now. I’ll show them to their table. ,
Jane: OK, what’s next? I must say, I do feel lucky to be working here — and with the , weather being so nice...
Peggy: Phil, menus please for table seven. , Jane: I think I know the man at table seven. Peggy: You can only see the back of his , head. They’re certainly a very loved-up couple. That’s the third kiss since they sat , down.
Sean: (Calling) Phil, can you come and get , these salads?
Jane: I know I’ve seen that bloke before. Peggy: Well, she’s looking over, so you can go and take their order.
Jane: OK, got my pen.
Phil: Peggy, can you hold the door... What’s going on?
Jane: (Shouting) You smarmy two-timing... Peggy: Oh no, Jane’s hit the man with the menu. Get in there and stop her, Phil.
Jane: (Shouting) I’m going to report you to the police for lack of social distancing. Phil: Sorry sir, I think there’s been a misunderstanding.
Jane: No, there hasn’t. This is Ned. We’ve been together since February — at least that’s what I thought.