waiter insults Elon Musk at a luxury restaurant but when he discovered the truth you won't believe what happened the rain softly struck the windows of laati jardan a discreet yet elegant restaurant in the heart of San Francisco The Establishment with its cream colored walls and dim lighting was a refuge for those looking to escape the city's hustle and bustle it was 8:45 in the evening and the aroma of freshly baked bread mixed with subtle notes of fresh herbs and melted butter Elon Musk ran his hand over his face trying to shake off the exhaustion that
had piled up over the past week the dark circles under his eyes betrayed countless sleepless nights spent resolving crises at his companies his phone kept vibrating in the pocket of his worn jeans but for the first time that day he decided to ignore it just one night he murmured to himself as he pushed open the heavy wooden door of the restaurant one night without being Elon Musk the hostess a young woman with blonde hair tied into an Immaculate bun barely glanced at him his black sweater which had seen better days and his faded jeans didn't
suggest he was the usual type of customer for the establishment table for one she asked flipping through the reservation book with little interest yes preferably something away from the windows musk replied mentally thanking her for not w recognizing him in the kitchen Miguel Ramirez was polishing a wine glass as he listened to his co-workers complaints at 35 years old he had spent half his life working in restaurants and The Last 5 Years at leati jardan had been particularly challenging did you see the guy who just walked in Sarah one of the waitresses commented while picking
up an order he looks like he got lost on the way to McDonald's Miguel glanced through the kitchen door the guy at table 15 that's my section great another one here to occupy a table for 2 hours just to order a salad and tap water the night had started poorly for Miguel earlier his mother had called to tell him she needed another expensive treatment and the insurance refused to cover it the bills were piling up and his younger sister depended on him to pay for college Chef AUST is in a terrible mood Carlos another waiter
warned as he entered the kitchen someone criticized his fle on Yelp Miguel adjusted his black apron and reviewed his notepad table 15 would be his sixth of the day and it wasn't even 900 p.m. yet he headed over practicing his professional smile even though inside he felt like the world was collapsing meanwhile musk scanned the menu without really reading it his mind wandered between the latest problems at Tesla a new investigation into autopilot safety controversies on X another another Scandal over content moderation and concerns at SpaceX delays with the next launch the weight of being
the most talked about man on the planet felt particularly heavy that night good evening Miguel's voice interrupted his thoughts I'm Miguel and I'll be your waiter tonight can I get you something to drink while you review the menu musk looked up from his phone where he had just read yet another negative headline about himself a whiskey neat please whatever you have Miguel narrowed his eyes slightly the restaurant was known for its extensive wine list and French cuisine not at Spirits we have Mallen 18-year-old for 1,45 a shot he replied with a tone that suggested his
client might want to reconsider that's fine musk murmured returning to his phone Miguel walked away muttering under his breath about customers who didn't even appreciate where they were dining at the bar Sarah waited with a mocking smile your table 15 seems fascinating she joked while preparing martinis he could at least pretend he knows where he is Miguel replied did you see how he's dressed this isn't Denny at his table musk was aware of the staff's glances and murmurs he found it almost amusing after weeks of constant agulation and people trying to impress him there was
something refreshing about being treated like a nobody the restaurant began to fill up a couple celebrating their anniversary took the table next to his the man in an impeccable suit the woman in a dress that likely cost more than Miguel's car at another table a group of tech Executives animatedly discussed their latest funding round Miguel returned with the whiskey setting it on the table with less care than necessary a few drops splashed onto the white tablecloth are you ready to order he asked his pen tapping rhythmically against the notepad musk closed the menu what do
you recommend the questions seemed to irritate Miguel further everything on our menu is excellent he replied dry but maybe you'd like to start with something simple like the soup of the day it's more accessible accessible musk raised an eyebrow intrigued by the barely veiled Audacity Of The Waiter yes $15 Miguel emphasized the price as if speaking to a child the lobster is market price which today is significantly higher a message lit up musk's phone another problem at the Berlin Factory he ignored it finding the waiter's attitude strangely entertaining I'll have the fuagra to start musk
said pronouncing fuagra in a way that made Miguel visibly wse and then the fet Mino medium rare Miguel couldn't help himself are you sure sure fuagra is quite sophisticated it's not for everyone's pallet at the next table the anniversary couple exchanged uncomfortable glances the waiter's attitude was clearly inappropriate but musk seemed almost amused I'm sure musk replied simply and a bottle of wine what do you suggest Miguel looked at musk's worn sweater and then at the wine list we have a pretty basic Mero for 50 probably more suitable for your budget bring me the Chateau
lefit Rothchild 2010 musk responded naming one of the most expensive wines on the list without even glancing at it Miguel paled slightly sir that wine costs 2500 a bottle perhaps you should the bottle will be fine musk interrupted returning to his phone Miguel walked away muttering under his breath about customers trying to pretend to be what they weren't in the kitchen he shared the story with his co-workers I bet his card gets declined Sarah laughed remember the guy last month who tried to impress his date and ended up washing dishes as the night progressed Miguel
grew Bolder in his condescending remarks when musk mispronounced Bordeaux Miguel corrected him with barely disguised disdain when musk asked for catchup for his 1220 steak Miguel practically had to restrain him himself from Rolling his eyes you know Miguel said while clearing the dessert plate next time there's a lovely place nearby called Burger King I think you'd feel more comfortable there the diners at nearby tables held their breath expecting an outburst of anger that never came instead musk gave a slight smile and pulled out his phone seemingly to record something the rain outside had intensified and
occasional Thunder provided a dramatic backdrop to the scene about to unfold Miguel had no idea that his life was about to take a radical turn for now however he was just another grumpy waiter at a luxury restaurant trying to survive another night in the kitchen the staff placed bets on whether the customer at table 15 would be able to pay the bill none of them imagined they were witnessing the beginning of a story that would soon become legendary at the restaurant the night was drawing to a close and Miguel prepared the bill with a mix
of anticipation and disdain the total came to over 3,000 a sum he was sure would create an awkward moment as he walked toward table 15 he mentally rehearsed what he would say when the card was declined but that revealing moment would have to wait until the next chapter of this story because for now Miguel remained simply a waiter who had dared to treat one of the most powerful men in the world with disdain without the slightest idea of who he really was the atmosphere in the restaurant had subtly shifted the diners at nearby tables initially
absorbed in their own conversations were now discreetly paying attention to the interaction between the Arrogant waiter and the seemingly humble customer at table 15 excuse me musk called out to Miguel as he passed by with a tray of desserts for another table could you bring me another whiskey Miguel let out an exaggerated sigh are you sure you wouldn't prefer a glass of water it's on the house an executive at the neighboring table nearly choked on her whine upon hearing the remark her dining companion looked at her with a mix of amusement and embarrassment the whiskey
will be fine musk replied who had begun to find an odd pleasure in the situation it was the first time in months that someone treated him without any kind of flattery or fear in the kitchen Sarah intercepted Miguel as he prepared the order don't you think you're pushing it a little she whispered though her tone suggested more admiration than concern Thomas is going to kill you if he hears how you're talking to the customers Miguel poured the whiskey with a dismissive gesture did you see how he holds his utensils like he's never eaten in a
fine dining place before and he ordered the fuagra just to show off he didn't even know how to appreciate it properly even so Sarah bit her lip there's something about him that feels familiar yeah he looks like every wannabe Tech guy who comes here pretending to be the next Steve Jobs Miguel replied adding sarcastically I'm sure he has a revolutionary startup in his garage meanwhile Chef AUST had discreetly peaked out from the kitchen to observe the customer at table 15 his expression oscillated between professional indignation at the catchup request and barely concealed curiosity M he
muttered how does someone order shat La Feit and then pair it with ketchup say on crime the manager Thomas who had been observing the situation from afar finally decided to approach musk's table there was something about the customer that gave him an uneasy feeling as if he was missing something obvious good evening sir Thomas said with a professional smile is everything to your liking musk looked up from his phone everything's excellent especially the service it has a unique touch Thomas noticed the amused glint in the customer's eyes and felt his unease grow I'm glad to
hear that if there's anything you need actually musk interrupted could you prepare the chocolate sule I noticed it takes about 20 minutes at that moment Miguel was returning with the whiskey the sule is quite sophisticated he commented ignoring Thomas's warning look perhaps ice cream would be more a appropriate for your pallet Thomas held his breath expecting a complaint that never came instead the customer smiled and said the sule will be fine and perhaps you could explain to me what makes it so sophisticated for the first time that evening Miguel was momentarily at a loss for
words the customer's calm demeanor and apparent Amusement unsettled him more and more at the table celebrating their anniversary the husband leaned toward his wife and whispered that guy must be someone important no one stays this calm under such terrible service unless they're used to handling much more intense situations the woman nodded discreetly studying the customer at table 15 there's something about the way he sits the way he observes everything he's not an ordinary Diner the rain outside had ceased but the fogged up Windows created an intimate atmosphere in the restaurant The Clock Struck 10:30 p.m.
and most most diners had begun to leave only a few tables remained occupied including musks Miguel Was preparing the check with a mix of anticipation and disdain 3247 point8 5 it was more than he earned in a month as he walked toward table 15 his mind replayed every interaction of the night every sarcastic comment every condescending glance if you need me to explain the numbers Miguel began placing the check on the table that won't be necessary musk replied pulling a black card from his worn wallet for a moment Miguel stared at the card it was
different from regular credit cards heavier with a minimalist design that but that moment of recognition would have to wait until the next chapter because for now Miguel was still just a proud waiter who had spent the night belittling someone without realizing he was about to receive the surprise of his life the restaurant read 10:45 p.m. and what seemed like an ordinary evening was about to turn into a story that none of those present would ever forget the night progressed at leati jardon as Miguel continued his service routine now with renewed confidence after his series of
condescending interactions with the customer at table 15 the restaurant had significantly emptied creating a more intimate atmosphere that Amplified every comment and gesture would you like to see the wine list again Miguel asked his tone Laden with irony as he held out the iPad displaying the digital selection I can show you the wines by the glass they're more manageable musk who had been discreetly adjusting the position of his phone on the table nodded with an enigmatic smile why don't you surprise me something that pairs well with the sule the response momentarily unsettled Miguel it wasn't
the defensive reaction he had hoped to provoke at the bar Sarah polished glasses increasingly intrigued by the dynamic between the waiter and the peculiar customer Miguel Sarah whispered as he approached the bar doesn't this seem off to you he's way too calm about your attitude probably doesn't even understand that I'm insulting him Miguel replied selecting a bottle of sa turns with a touch of malice these Tech guys live in their own little bubbles in the kitchen Chef AUST prepared the sule muttering in French about customers who didn't appreciate Hot Cuisine meanwhile manager Thomas couldn't shake
the feeling that he was missing something important here you go Miguel said returning to musk's table with a glass of golden wine a chateau sudu rot though you might find its flavor a bit complex musk took the glass and examined it with genuine interest interesting choice what made you pick a saw turns the question asked with evident knowledge made Miguel hesitate for a second it's the traditional pairing for sule he replied regaining his condescending tone though I suppose you'd prefer a cocacola at a nearby table a group of tech Executives who had been observing the
interaction for the past hour exchanged meaningful glances one of them discreetly pulled out his phone and began typing something Sarah one of the executives called to the bartender is that waiter always like this this with customers Sarah wiping down the bar shook her head Miguel is usually very professional something about this customer has him especially inspired tonight meanwhile musk had pulled out his phone again the screen displayed several notifications from twittern about Tesla's latest controversy but he ignored them opting instead to open a voice recording app mind if I record some work notes musk asked
Miguel as he returned to check on the sule the atmosphere here is very inspiring oh are you working on the next big app Miguel responded his voice dripping with sarcasm another revolutionary social network or maybe something in blockchain musk suppressed A Smile as He adjusted his phone something like that it's always helpful to document interesting experiences in the kitchen Chef August was finishing the decoration on the sule when Thomas approached with a worried expression August doesn't the customer at table 15 look familiar to you the chef paused studying the customer through the kitchen window maintenance
coutula there's something familiar about him but it can't be who I'm thinking of that guy wouldn't come alone and dress like that Miguel returned to the kitchen to collect the sule catching the tail end of the conversation between Thomas and AUST what are you two staring at he asked adjusting his apron Miguel Thomas began cautiously have you noticed anything particular about the customer at table 15 other than his complete lack of class and his pretense of being more sophisticated than he is Miguel replied taking the plate with the sule he's your typical Silicon Valley wannabe
who thinks he can buy sophistication with a credit card Thomas tried to say more but Miguel was already heading to musk's table with the dessert on his way he passed Sarah who stopped him briefly Miguel one of the executives at Table 6 just showed me something on his phone she whispered urgently I think you should not now Sarah Miguel interrupted I need to serve this sule before it deflates reaching musk's table Miguel placed the dessert down with an exaggerated flourish you're sule sir do you need me to explain how to eat it it's quite a
bit more sophisticated than a Starbucks brownie musk who had been discreetly recording with his phone angled it slightly to better capture the moment please enlighten me I'm always eager to learn the response once again devoid of the irritation Miguel expected left him momentarily puzzled he had been provoking the customer all night and instead of getting angry musk seemed increasingly amused at the bar Sarah was hyperventilating after seeing what the executive had shown her on his phone Thomas noticed her distress and quickly approached Sarah are you okay you look like you've seen a ghost Thomas she
whispered discreetly pointing toward table 15 do you know who that customer is before Thomas could answer Miguel returned to the bar shaking his head in disbelief can you believe he just asked me about the physics of why a sule Rises like he actually cares about about the science behind Miguel Sarah interrupted urgently there's something you need to know but Miguel had already turned away responding to a gesture from musk requesting more wine on his way back to the table he stopped briefly at the service station to check his phone he had three messages from his
sister Miguel are you watching the news answer me this is important please tell me you're not being yourself tonight he ignored the messages assuming it was some family drama and continued to musk's table with the wine you know Miguel began as he poured it's refreshing to see someone pretends so much interest in Gastronomy most tech guys who come here just want to show off how much they can spend musk took a sip of wine studying Miguel over the rim of his glass and what makes you so sure I'm pretending oh please Miguel scoffed I've been
been in this business for 15 years I can tell the difference between someone who genuinely appreciates fine dining and someone who's just trying to keep up appearances the way you hold your utensils how you pronounce French names the fact that you asked for ketchup with a prime stake it all screams new money trying to fit in at nearby tables several diners held their breath torn between disbelief and morbid Fascination the group of tech Executives had stopped pretending they weren't listening and one of them was discreetly filming the scene on his phone 15 years is a
long time musk commented adjusting his phone again on the table you must have seen all kinds of customers oh absolutely Miguel replied oblivious to Sarah's desperate attempts to get his attention from the bar but you Tech guys are my favorite category always so sure you're changing the world with your apps and cryptocurrencies musk tilted his head genuinely intrigued and what do you think about electric cars hauh Miguel couldn't suppress a mocking laugh like Tesla please Elon Musk is just another billionaire playing Tony Stark at least he knows how to dress appropriately for dinner unlike Miguel's
voice trailed off as realization began to Dawn something about the amused expression on his customer's face the way he had mentioned Tesla the phone recording on the table a chill ran down his spine at the bar Sarah had buried her face in her hands unable to keep watching the unfolding disaster Thomas had started walking toward table 15 but stopped when he saw that Miguel was finally putting the pieces together I uh Miguel swallowed hard his mind racing through every sarcastic comment every condescending gesture he had made that evening excuse me sir but you're not but
that re ation that moment of horrified understanding would have to wait until the next chapter for now Miguel stood Frozen next to the table as the weight of his actions began to crash down on him like an avalanche in slow motion the restaurant clock read 11:15 p.m. and the night that had started with a waiter's arrogance was about to take a turn that would change his life forever the silence that followed was deafening the few diners still remaining in the restaurant had stopped pretending not to observe the scene the group of Executives had placed their
phones on the table recording every moment even Chef August had peaked out from the kitchen his white hat visible through the service window sir I Miguel felt his legs turned to jelly his mind replayed every scathing comment he had made throughout the evening on an endless loop musk raised a hand cutting off what was sure to be a stammering apology you were saying something about Tony Stark Miguel's face had gone pale his throat was so dry he could barely speak I I didn't know I mean I never imagined that the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX
might dine alone in jeans musk finished the sentence a faint smile playing on his lips As He adjusted his phone one last time Sarah appeared beside Miguel practically materializing out of nowhere Mr musk please accept our sincerest apologies Miguel is usually very professional and is he musk interrupted his tone genuinely curious because in the past 2 hours I've seen something quite different fascinating I must admit Thomas the manager finally mustered the courage to approach the table his forehead glistened with sweat Mr musk as the manager of Leti jardon I want to express our deepest you
know what's most interesting musk interrupted again addressing Miguel while ignoring Thomas's attempts at apology it's the first honest conversation I've had in weeks no flattery no hidden agendas just brutal honesty Miguel blinked confused his brain was still trying to process the situation you're not angry angry musk let out a small laugh I've been recording every interaction it's refreshing to encounter someone who says exactly what they think even if it's not very diplomatic at the executive's table one of them whispered to his companions classic Elon turning a disaster into a social study opportunity Chef August had
completely abandoned any pretense of being busy in the kitchen and now stood at the doorway his mustache quivering with excitement Mondo I have Elon Musk critiquing my sule about that Miguel began recalling his earlier comments about the sule and feeling a fresh wave of Shame name actually it's delicious musk remarked taking another bite though I must admit ketchup would have been an interesting addition the joke elicited a nervous giggle from Sarah which she immediately tried to stifle with a cough Miguel on the other hand felt the world spinning around him his phone buzzed incessantly in
his pocket probably his sister frantically trying to warn him about who his customer was Mr musk Thomas tried again please allow us to make amends in some way dinner is on the house and and miss the pleasure of using my card after all the comments about my supposed budget limits musk smiled pulling out the black card he had shown earlier that would be anticlimactic don't you think Miguel hearing his name from musk's lips sent a shiver down Miguel's spine sir about my comments on Tesla and well about you the ones about me being a billionaire
playing Tony Stark musk seemed to consider the comparison you're not the first to make it though people usually don't say it to my face while serving wine the executives at the nearby table had begun live streaming discreetly knowing this story would go viral within hours musk's handling of the situation was quintessentially his unconventional style you know musk continued looking directly at Miguel brutal honesty is a rare quality these days especially in my world where everyone is so worried about saying the right thing not offending Keeping Up Appearances Miguel shifted uncomfortably aware that every word and
gesture was being captured not only by musk's phone but also by the multiple devices now pointed in his Direction which brings me to a question musk leaned forward his eyes glinting with genuine curiosity why did you choose to be so direct with me tonight the question took Miguel by surprise he had expected anger a threat of dismissal maybe even a lawsuit not this surreal conversation about honesty and authenticity Miguel looked around noting the expectant faces of his co-workers the phones recording musk's amused expression I guess I got tired of the pretense of people coming here
pretending to be something they're not trying to impress and when I saw you with your jeans and worn sweater I assumed that I was another pretentious techie trying to show off musk finished the irony is delicious isn't it a clap of Thunder echoed in the distance as if the weather itself wanted to add drama to the moment the rain had started again softly tapping against the restaurant windows for what it's worth Miguel added with a nervous smile your French pronunciations really are terrible musk's laugh echoed through the restaurant breaking the accumulated tension even Thomas who
had been on the verge of a nervous breakdown allowed himself a small smile Miguel musk said picking up his phone you've provided the most authentic material I've recorded in months the question is what should I do with it Miguel's heart stopped for a moment this night could end in a thousand different ways and not all of them involved keeping his job or dignity but for some reason the expression on musk's face suggested that this story might have an unexpected ending the night was far from over and Miguel's fate hung by a thread but that would
be part of the next chapter of this extraordinary evening midnight was drawing near at leati jardon and the electrifying atmosphere that followed the moment of recognition had given way to a different tension Miguel still standing by musk's table felt the weight of every second as he processed the magnitude of what had unfolded Miguel Thomas's voice voice cut through the silence I think you should take your break now but musk raised a hand actually I'd like Miguel to stay I have a few more questions Sarah who had been watching from the bar approached with a new
bottle of wine her hands trembling slightly as she poured Mr musk perhaps you'd prefer something more exclusive from our seller this is perfect musk replied not taking his eyes off Miguel so tell me more about your thoughts on billionaires playing Tony Stark Miguel felt his throat tighten in his pocket his phone buzzed incessantly with messages that no longer mattered his mind wandered to his sick mother the unpaid medical bills his sister in college he he began but the words stuck in his throat you know musk continued reviewing the recordings on his phone it's fascinating how
people's behavior changes when they realize who I am but you you were brutally honest all night until exactly he glanced at his phone 12 minutes ago in the kitchen Chef AUST had nervously begun preparing more desserts his way of coping with stress sat dastra he muttered as he furiously whipped a cream the executives at the nearby table were still discreetly streaming their social media followers growing by the minute as the drama unfolded in real time Mr musk Thomas tried again I understand Miguel's Behavior was entirely inappropriate but he has a difficult family situation his mother
is ill and is that true musk interrupted his expression subtly shifting Miguel nodded slowly pancreatic cancer the insurance it doesn't cover all the treatments and yet musk said Consulting the recordings again you suggested I order the soup because it was more accessible the irony is fascinating Sarah appeared with a chair Miguel sit down before you pass out I can't sit at a customer's table Miguel responded automatically his training as a waiter kicking in even amidst the crisis I think we're past formalities musk said with a smile sit Miguel sank into the chair his legs finally
giving out the restaurant was practically empty now save for the executiv still documenting everything and a few staff members pretending to work while watching the your comment about Tesla was particularly interesting musk continued playing a portion of the recording do you really think I'm just playing at being Innovative I not really Miguel admitted it's just that when you've served tables for 15 years you see a lot of pretense especially in San Francisco everyone thinks they're changing the world with the next big app or startup and Tesla isn't changing the world it is Miguel said regaining
some of his earlier honesty but from where I stand electric cars are something I'll never be able to afford my 2005 Honda Civic barely works but it's all I can afford while helping my mom and sister musk leaned back in his chair studying Miguel with renewed interest go on it's it's like living in two different worlds Miguel said the words starting to flow I serve dinners that cost more than my monthly salary to people who talk about changing the world while I can't pay my mom's medical bills it's not that I don't appreciate Innovation it's
just frustration musk finished and tonight when you saw someone who seemed to be pretending to belong to that world I took it out on you Miguel admitted which was completely unprofessional and and refreshingly honest musk interrupted do you know how many people tell me EX exactly what they think without filters or an agenda Thomas who had been holding his breath finally interjected Mr musk I understand you appreciate honesty but Miguel's Behavior tonight was exactly what I needed musk finished think of it as an impromptu social experiment how many CEOs really know how they're perceived by
everyday people not analysts not the media but someone who serves tables and struggles to make ends meet the executives at the nearby table had stopped streaming realizing they were witnessing something deeper than a simple viral confrontation however mus continued his tone growing more serious there are consequences for our actions Miguel you've provided a unique perspective tonight but you've also demonstrated questionable judgment Miguel's heart sank here it was the firing the public humiliation the end of his ability to support his family I understand sir he said his voice barely a whisper and I accept whatever consequences
there are just just please don't have me fired my mom depends on my health insurance musk picked up his phone and replayed another snippet of the recordings at least he knows how to dress appropriately for dinner unlike the irony musk said is that I specifically dressed like this tonight because I wanted a quiet dinner without the usual circus that follows me and I ended up finding something much more interesting Sarah who had been nearby the entire time couldn't contain herself so you're not going to fire him fire him musk seemed genuinely surprised why would I
waste someone who's not afraid to tell the truth Miguel looked up confused I don't understand your problem Miguel isn't honesty it's judgment when and how to be honest but honesty itself that's something I can't buy with all my billions Miguel's eyes filled with tears the tension of the night the fear the adrenaline all of it was finally catching up to him that said musk continued these recordings are quite compromising the question is what should I do with them the silence that followed was deafening every member of the restaurant staff held their breath waiting for musk's
final decision but that crucial moment that decision that would change Miguel's life would have to wait for the next chapter for now the waiter who had unknowingly insulted the world's richest man remained in limbo teetering between disaster and possible Redemption the Clock Struck 12:15 a.m. and the night still had more surprises in store for everyone present the rain struck the windows with greater intensity now and as if nature itself were providing the Perfect soundtrack for this pivotal moment musk idly toyed with his phone where the night's recordings waited like silent evidence do you know what's
most interesting about these recordings Miguel musk asked playing another snippet it's not just your comments about me it's your entire perspective on the tech World inequality Innovation all from the point of view of someone living at the intersection of those worlds Sarah returned with another round of coffee her hands steadier now that the situation seemed less catastrophic Mr musk may I ask why you started recording in the first place Instinct musk replied accepting the cup when Miguel made his first comment about my limited budget something told me this night would be educational the executives at
the nearby table began murmuring amongst themselves one of them a woman in an elegant suit finally spoke up loud enough to be heard excuse me Mr musk but this is exactly the kind of perspective we need in Silicon Valley the tech bubble has isolated us from the realities most people face Miguel shifted uncomfortably in his chair I wasn't trying to be a sociological study the best insights are rarely intentional musk replied but let's talk about your personal situation you mentioned your mother how much does her treatment cost the abrupt change of topic caught Miguel offg
guard I about 12,000 a month insurance covers part of it but we still need around 8,000 extra and your sister in college partial scholarship Miguel explained I work double shifts on weekends to help with the rest Chef AUST who had been listening from the kitchen emerged with a plate of macarons poor Vu he said placing them on the table and Miguel manami I never knew no one did Miguel interrupted I didn't want anyone's pity I'd rather deal with sarcastic comments about pretentious millionaires he added flashing a small smile at musk speaking of sarcastic comments musk
played another recording he probably has a revolutionary startup in his garage the irony isn't lost on me Miguel admitted blushing considering Tesla literally started in a garage yes musk finished though probably with better funding than your 2005 Honda Civic the remark elicited nervous laughter from the restaurant even Thomas who had been on edge all night allowed himself a faint smile Mr musk Thomas interjected I understand you find Miguel's perspective interesting but as the manager I can't Overlook the fact that his behavior tonight was inappropriate unprofessional brutally honest musk finished the thought yes all of that
but it was also real and reality is something in short supply in my world Miguel caught his reflection in one of the empty wine glasses The Arrogant waiter from earlier in the night had been replaced by someone smaller more vulnerable but perhaps more authentic if I could go back Miguel began would you change anything musk interrupted would you be more flattering more fake the question hung in the air for a moment the executives had turned their phones back on sensing the significance of Miguel's response no Miguel finally said I'd probably be more respectful in how
I expressed it but the frustration the inequality the feeling of living in parallel worlds all of that is real musk nodded slowly as if Miguel had passed some kind of test what if I told you these recordings could be the start of something bigger bigger Miguel frowned like what like a conversation silicon Val needs to hear musk replied a raw unfiltered perspective on the gap between technological innovation and everyday reality the executives at the nearby table leaned in intrigued Sarah nearly spilled the coffee she was serving but first musk continued we need to address some
practical matters like your mother's treatment Miguel's heart skipped a beat Mr musk I wasn't trying to I know musk interrupted that's what makes it genuine you weren't asking for help or trying to impress me you were just being honest even if that Honesty bordered on insubordination the rain outside had begun to let up as if even the weather wanted to hear what came next the Clock Struck 1 a.m. and Miguel's fate was about to take an unexpected turn but that moment of Revelation the instant when a waiter's life would change forever would have to wait
for the next chapter for now the tension in Lati jardon continued to build as everyone held their breath waiting to see how this extraordinary night would come to an end the early hours of the morning settled over Leti jardon and the decision that would determine Miguel's fate hung heavy in the air the clock read 1:15 a.m. and not a single soul had left the restaurant as if an invisible spell kept everyone rooted to their seats awaiting the conclusion of this extraordinary night night before we move forward musk said scrolling through his phone I'd like to
replay something specific from tonight Miguel's recorded voice echoed through the silent restaurant in my position people are usually fake you treated me like any other customer though not in the best way it's fascinating musk continued how people's behavior changes when they know who I am investors employees even waiters everyone has a mask ready Thomas cleared his throat ner ly Mr musk once again I'd like to express do you know how many people work directly under me at Tesla musk interrupted ignoring the manager Miguel blinked thrown off by the sudden change of topic thousands thousands musk
confirmed and do you know how many dare to tell me when they think I'm wrong Sarah still nearby with a coffee pot murmured after tonight probably one fewer on the contrary musk replied with a smile tonight has made me think about something important Miguel how long did you say you've been in the service industry 15 years sir 15 years observing silicon Valley's Elite musk mused 15 years listening to their conversations watching their behavior witnessing the disconnect between their grand visions and everyday reality the executives at the nearby table shifted uncomfortably Rec recognizing the truth in
his words and in all that time mus continued you've developed a unique perspective one that isn't afraid to point out contradictions even if it's not very diplomatic Miguel swallowed hard Mr musk about that my communications team at Tesla musk interrupted is full of brilliant professionals PR experts media strategists image Consultants all highly qualified and all terribly careful not to offend Chef AUST who had been eavesdropping from the kitchen emerged once more M are you saying what I think you're saying what I need musk continued ignoring the interruption isn't more people telling me what I want
to hear I need someone who isn't afraid to tell the truth even when it's uncomfortable a silence so profound fell over the restaurant that even the rain outside seemed to pause to listen Mr musk one of the the executives at the nearby table ventured are you considering Miguel musk leaned forward what would you say if I offered you a job the sound of a glass breaking echoed through the restaurant Sarah had dropped the one she was cleaning a job Miguel could barely process the words at Tesla on my communications team musk confirmed not to polish
messages or manage PR but to provide the raw honest perspective you demonstr tonight Thomas staggered slightly needing to steady himself on a nearby chair but but he insulted you he mocked you all night exactly musk replied and in the process he offered more insights into public perception of Tesla and Technology than six months of focus groups Miguel looked around as if expecting someone to reveal that this was an elaborate joke but I don't know anything about corporate Communications that's precisely the point musk said I don't need another Communications expert I need someone who understands the
disconnect between Silicon Valley and the real world someone who's lived that disconnect for 15 years the executives at the nearby table began frantically taking notes this was exactly the kind of unconventional move musk was known for the salary musk continued would be significantly higher than a waiter enough to cover your mother's treatment and and your sister's education tears welled up in Miguel's eyes I I don't know what to say say what you really think musk replied as you've been doing all night Miguel took a deep breath honestly I think you're crazy laughter erupted in the
restaurant breaking the tension that had been building for hours probably musk admitted but that madness has gotten us pretty far so what do you say what if if I mess everything up Miguel asked I'm not exactly known for my tact oh you'll definitely mess things up sometimes musk replied with a grin but I'd rather have someone fail honestly than succeed dishonestly Sarah who had been holding back tears finally let out a sob this is like a Hallmark movie but with billionaires and sarcastic waiters then musk extended his hand do we have a deal Miguel stared
at the out stretched hand then at his co-workers who watched with a mix of awe and joy he thought of his mother the medical bills his sister struggling to stay in college on one condition he said finally musk raised an eyebrow intrigued what's that that you let me keep being honest even when that Honesty isn't comfortable Miguel musk replied with a smile that's not a condition that's exactly why I'm hiring you their hands clasped and spontaneous Applause broke out in the restaurant Chef AUST had begun uncorking bottles of shampagne while Thomas finally relaxed realizing his
restaurant wouldn't be facing a lawsuit after all you know what's the most ironic part Sarah said as she poured the champagne your worst night as a waiter turned out to be the best night of your life Miguel looked around at The Smiling Faces of his soon Tobe former co-workers the executive still documenting the scene and Elon Musk sitting calmly with a glass of champagne in hand the last time I served a table Miguel said raising his glass I'll leave a note for my co-workers treat everyone with respect not because they might be disguised millionaires but
because it's the right thing to do though in my case being a jerk somehow landed me a better job laughter and toasts continued as the night stretched on outside the rain had completely stopped and the first rays of Dawn began to Peak over the San Francisco skyline a week later Miguel attended his first meeting at Tesla earning a salary that not only covered his mother's treatment but also secured his sister's educational future his first task reviewing a draft press release and saying exactly what he thought about it no filters Dawn broke over lepti jardon as
the remaining guests shared stories and laughter Chef AUST had prepared an impromptu breakfast to celebrate and the arom of freshly baked croissance filled the air you know what's the funniest part Sarah asked as she poured fresh coffee all the customers who tried impressing Miguel with their wine knowledge over the years and he ends up getting a job at Tesla by doing the exact opposite Miguel now more relaxed but still processing the night's events chuckled I guess I should update my LinkedIn how about from critiquing billionaires to working for one I prefer brutal honesty specialist suggested
musk who surprisingly was still there seemingly enjoying the Casual atmosphere the executives who had witnessed everything were finally preparing to leave one of them approached the table Mr musk the executive said this is going to change how many companies think about honest feedback may I quote you in my next conference go ahead musk replied but make sure you mention that the catchup with the Stak would was the Tipping Point Thomas who had been crunching numbers in his office returned with a bewildered expression Mr musk about the bill charge it as usual musk interrupted and include
a generous tip for Miguel consider it his last service speaking of service Chef AUST interjected Miguel Monami perhaps you could put in a good word for us at Tesla for corporate events AUST Miguel replied with a grin after the way I treated your most important customer I think you owe me a few favors the laughter continued as the sun climbed higher in the sky Miguel pulled out his phone to find dozens of unread messages from his family I think I should call my mom he said his voice breaking slightly use my office Thomas offered and
Miguel I'm sorry for all the times I scolded you for being too direct with customers clearly you knew something I did didn't as Miguel stepped away to make the most important call of his life musk addressed the remaining staff do you know why I really hired him he asked staring at the last drops of coffee in his cup not just for his honesty it's his ability to see through pretension in a world where everyone is trying to be something they're not someone who can point out the truth of it when it's uncomfortable is invaluable Sarah
gathered the last of the champagne glasses and the recordings what will you do with them I'll keep them musk replied with a smile as a reminder that sometimes the best ideas come from the most unexpected places and maybe someday when Miguel is presenting in a boardroom I'll play them just to see his face in Thomas's office Miguel was finishing telling his mother the news tears streamed freely down his face as he listened to her joyful sobs on the other end of the line mom he said through his tears you won't have to worry about the
bills anymore and Maria can finish college everything's going to be okay when he returned to the dining room he found someone had improvised a sign that read from waiter to Executive a Silicon Valley tail a it's a bit much Miguel remarked oh you haven't seen anything yet musk replied wait until the media finds out waiter insults Elon Musk and Lance Tesla job the headlines write themselves about that Thomas interjected should we prepare a press release Let It Be musk said some stories are better told naturally besides he added glancing at Miguel I think my new
Communications adviser would prefer to keep it authentic the sun was high in the sky by the time farewells began the morning shift employees arrived bewildered to find an impromptu celebration in progress undur your chose Chef August said handing Miguel a package the recipe for my sule for when you need to impress at corporate dinners thanks Chef Miguel replied though I think my way of impressing people is a bit different now as musk prepared to leave he paused beside Miguel first meeting on Monday at 9: and Miguel keep that brutal honesty just maybe tone down the
comments on my French pronunciation no promises Miguel replied with a grin after all you hired me for my cander and so as the San Francisco son illuminated a new day the tale of the waiter who dared to be brutally honest with the world's richest man came to an end or perhaps more accurately to its true beginning because sometimes in the most unexpected places and the most improbable ways brutal honesty can open doors we never knew existed even if it includes CL suggesting catchup for a 120 steak
