3/13/24 Taking Back the Zinclotuses

Last week, I received an email from my original manufacturers offering a full refund for all the zinc lotuses. With spring break travel behind me, today presented an opportunity to make the trip down to the west side of Chicago and personally return the items. 

The email from the Chicago manufacturer specified their operating hours and instructed me to ask for someone named Ski upon arrival. The manufacturing company however does not know I am in highschool. So, to ensure I was taken seriously, I let my hair down from its usual ponytail and borrowed one of my mom's sweaters for a more professional appearance.

Upon arriving at the somewhat daunting all-brick, half-rundown building, I gathered my courage and approached the front desk. Surrounded by burly, intimidating employees, I timidly inquired about Ski's whereabouts. A gruff response came from a corner of the room, prompting me to nervously identify myself as Helen. Without further ado, the man summoned Ski via walkie-talkie.

Minutes later, I found myself face to face with Ski—an imposing figure, tall, bald, and muscular. After confirming my identity, he escorted me to his office, where we discussed the situation. While Ski admired the concept, he regretfully explained their inability to ensure the lotuses' food safety. Although he couldn't provide a referral, I left the office with full refund.