I’m not that tall, and when I’m shopping, I often ask for help from people taller than me to get things off of high shelves. I often have the same “opening spiel”.

One day, I address a middle-aged couple at a store.

Me: “Good day, sir. I am small and you are tall. Could you help me get [item]?”

Man: *Laughing* “Sure!”

Woman: *Also laughing* “Oh, people always ask that! He’s such a sweetheart for helping people!”

Me: “He sure is. Thank you so much!”

We go about our ways, but a few minutes later, I spot them again. 

Man: “Ah, miss! Just the one I need!” *Points to a lower shelf* “I am old and you are young. Could you get that [item] for me, please?”

Me: *Laughing* “Sure! Wow, this is the first time someone has asked me for help! Here you go!”

Man: “Thank you so much!”

The wife says nothing and looks… sour? We split ways again, but just when I’m around the corner, I hear the woman speaking to the man.

Woman: “How dare you?! Flirting with that [less kind word for a young woman]?! I was standing right next to you!”

I made sure to stay away from that couple for the rest of my shopping trip.