That dig was directed directly towards him. I think he noticed because his faced puffed up like a blowfish. Cheeks reddening and all. It was sort of comical. No, it was pure hilarious. The man who was so sure of himself was knocked down a peg. He huffed and puffed. He sat down with a thud, and didn't talk to anyone of us the rest of the day. He most likely kept to himself because he felt embarrassed. Well, he shouldn't have assumed that I couldn't do it.

He loved being friendly with the manager and telling on us when we did something even slightly wrong. Or not according to the standards the factory held us by. The boot licking he did never garner him the least bit success. It didn't make him anymore wealthy or handsome. All he was mean and spiteful. At the end of the day I tapped the man I had promised the gifts and gave him a warm smile. He spoke first. "I am so proud of you! I'm sorry I ever doubted you. Please forgive me." I could tell he was genuine. 

"You don't need to ask for forgiveness. By the way, I promised you I'd get your kids something for their birthdays. I didn't forget. Let me know what they like." He had a stunned expression. It might be the fact he was surprised that a stranger would do something kind for him and his family. He didn't take in account the type of person I was. I helped when I could. That was just who I am. "Thanks! I have a boy and a girl. My little girl likes playing with dolls. Her new favorite is a princess doll. She also likes costume jewelry. And my little boy enjoys to draw. It's nothing that would get him in trouble. He just draws for the fun of it. Maybe some crayons or colored pencils." 

"I can do that." He smiled a goofy grin. "Thanks Xavier. We never really talked before and I see you're a great guy." I felt bad I didn't know his name. Better time than never to ask. "I'm sorry. I don't know your name." "It's fine. My name is Thomas." He put his hand out for me to shake and I returned it with ease. His hands had rough callouses just like mine did. We both worked hard in this factory. I decided it was best to let the foreman know early tomorrow morning I am leaving this place. That way he would at least allow me to drop off the gifts. My work wouldn't start till next week at that grand location. I was filled with glee and the negativity started to fade away. I punched out with a click.