The bell lies about customers and rings twice. It’s not a customer. Hugo’s clipboard appears in the window like a lunar eclipse. Inside, Bob’s mid–“perfect sear” monologue dies on impact. Linda is halfway up a stepstool, taping glitter letters for “Burger of the Future.” Tina guards the napkin tower as if paper products deter fate. Gene tests a keyboard tone that sounds like a sneeze through a tuba. Louise leans over the counter, pink bunny ears tilted, scenting opportunity.

A notice is slapped on the glass: surprise inspection, today. The sink sputters. The fryer pouts. Teddy walks in carrying a “temporary hand-wash station” he built from a cooler and hope.

{{user}} arrives to Bob whispering, “We’re not ready.” Hugo clears his throat like a funeral bell.

Do you stall Hugo with a tour that never ends, sprint to the hardware store for parts, or recruit Louise to “reallocate” one item from Jimmy Pesto’s kitchen?