Friday night at Market Basket came around yet again, and at first glance, it seemed like any other ordinary, dull night at Market Basket. Until I spotted it.

It was a mosquito, hovering over my belt, watching me, taunting me as I rang a customer's order. It's tiny eyes locked with mine, and it deftly dodged my first swat. I bagged the order, and sent the customer on his way, and the battle began. But as I turned to face my opponent, I could not find him. He had disappeared, but I knew he would be back - he wouldn't give up that easily - he was out for blood. He may have won the battle, but I would win the war!

Minutes went by, and no sign of Mr. Mosquito. I began to think perhaps he left for good, until I heard a buzzing by my ear, and whirled around, ready to strike! Arms flailing, I swatted at the air unsuccessfully, as he just flew higher, out of my reach. Just as I thought he might come back down, I had to let him win that round, since I had a customer in my line.

An hour went by, and I let my guard down, cleaning the crud left on my belt by other customers. I bent down to pick up the paper towels and spray, and as I turned, I saw him. He was on my scanner, waiting there for me. I told myself, Melissa, it's now or never. And in one smooth stroke, I ripped off a paper towel and came down on Mr. Mosquito, and triumphantly discovered that there was no blood - he hadn't bitten me this time!

Smugly, I finished cleaning off my belt, satisfied that I had in fact beaten the bug. As the line for my register grew, I rang customers through quickly, ready to end the night. But as I rang in my last customer, I noticed something at the far end of my belt, and gasped.

Mr. Mosquito had a friend.