One lie will lead to another
Last month I was in Pacifica visiting Derek (http://www.smallstoriesonline.com). There was a Radio Shack by his place so I thought I would stop in and get an AC adapter for my new transistor radio (the old one was stolen during the burglary). When the owner rang it up, the total came to $17!!! For an AC adapter!!! This is over three times what I paid for the radio itself. I’d already pulled out my 20 dollar bill but since he was on the other side of the counter I just said, “All I’ve got is this 10. I’ll come back later.” and quickly slipped it back into my pocket (you see I work behind a counter too so I know all the angles and distances).

“Great I’ll keep it behind the counter for you.” he said and proceeded to do just that.

I figured I was already in too deep so I thanked him and made my way for the door.

“Wait!” he said, “What name should I put it under.”

“Uh... My name... Let’s see... John! Yes, it’s John!”

He waved bye to me as the electronic ding marked my exit. I waved back at him, smiled weakly and thought, “I can never go to this store again.” As I was walking to the car it occurred to me that there was no reason for me to lie about my name.