“Oh, just trying to help,” replies Robert, in an attempt to sound casual. “I enjoyed serving you! You know, you have to come back soon. The food here is fabulous - and if you become one of my regulars, I can get you in on some special extra stuff.” Robert winks knowingly at Jason. “We big guys gotta stick together, after all.”

“We big guys?” replies Jason. Robert’s reference to ‘we big guys’ made him included, made him feel bold. “Look, can I ask you something?” he continues.

“Sure, big guy,” replies Robert.

“Have you always been fat, or did you gain a lot once you hit college?” Jason asks.

Robert replies,