You Can’t Help Me, I Can’t Help You

Apartment Complex, Employees, USA, Washington | Working | May 28, 2020


I am going to my apartment complex’s office to discuss my current lease. I also happen to have a package waiting for me for pickup. When I get there, the entrance is locked.

A postal worker is nearby and sees me try the doorknob.

Postal Worker: “Is it locked?”

Me: “Yeah.”

Postal Worker: “Let’s try knocking.”

I’m a bit doubtful about anyone inside hearing the knocks since it is a multi-tiered entrance, so I let the postal worker do the knocking. A few seconds later, an employee opens the door.

Employee: “I’m at lunch and my partner is doing a tour. I’m not even allowed to open the door.”

Postal Worker: “Can I drop off some packages?”

Employee: “Yes.”

Me: “Can I pick up a package?”

Employee: “No. Can you come back in ten minutes?”

Me: “I can’t. I have to go to work.”

Employee: “I’m not getting paid. I can’t help you.”

Me: “I understand.”

Employee: “There’s nothing I can do. I’m not even supposed to leave my desk.”

I just nod and stare as I already said that I understood.

Employee: “I can’t help you. I’m on lunch.”

Certain she’s lost her mind at this point, I stop acknowledging her completely and just walk away.