Buff table-cleaners

I was walking through the market today when I passed a large, open-plan moo gra ta eatery. They are popular around here, especially with students, and employ young waiting staff, some of whom who look barely out of their teens.

The service boys were getting ready to open the restaurant, and had stripped off their shirts while they cleaned down tables.

This was a welcome sight, as normally they wear uniform. They look pretty in those, but even better with bare chests.

I stood on the sidewalk next to the eatery and watched as they worked. Every so often I would turn back to watch the road next to me, as if I was really waiting for the traffic to ease before crossing.

An old guy pushing his bicycle walked past, and decided to try out his English. Couldn't he see I was busy looking at young men?

'How are you today?' he asked, giving me a toothless grin. He carried a large red carry basket on the front of his bike, which was empty.

'I am well,' I said, then quickly turned back to watch the boys. Any moment now, they might finish cleaning down tables, and go back inside to escape the heat.

I am not sure if boys sleep in the place or not, but I know it has showers, and places where they can change. At night, when it is busy, they show the television soap operas on large white screens, to keep the guests entertained.

The old man would not be deterred.

'Welcome to Thailand!' Another toothless grin.

'Thank you.'

I gave up boy-watching, as the conversation with the old man was likely to carry on and on. I smiled, and crosssed the road.