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Logan Reid, the food blogger, arrived the next afternoon. Holding his compact camera, he spoke directly to his viewers.
“Hey, everyone! Logan Reid here. Today, we’re visiting a deli that’s been hyped up by local foodies–Maynard’s Deli. Word is their Southern–style BBQ platters are out of this world. Let’s find out!”
When he introduced himself to Russell Maynard, Russell’s eyes lit up.
“Hi there! I’m a food blogger, and my followers recommended your deli. I have over 100,000 fans, and I’d love to feature you in a video. Would you mind if I record while I eat?”
“Go ahead! No problem at all,” Russell said enthusiastically, ushering Logan to a seat.
“Nobody makes BBQ like we do,” he bragged. “You’ve got great taste, my friend!”
Clearly, Russell was thrilled about the publicity, puffing up with pride as Logan rolled the camera.
“Looks like we’re in for a treat today,” Logan said to his audience, smiling at the spread.
“Please, help promote us. Times have been tough,” Russell said.
“Of course,” Logan agreed easily.
Martha waddled out from the back and gave Russell a knowing look. He quickly piled a plate high with food–duck heads, chicken wings, and some leftover veggies from the previous day.
“That’ll be $286,” Russell said, looking smug.
Logan kept his cool, smiling as he replied, “Actually, I’m working on a series where I trade $100 worth of lottery tickets for a meal. Does that
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Martha’s face darkened immediately. “So, you’re just here for a freebie, huh? Don’t think you can waltz in here and eat 1 you’re an influencer! Who cares about your followers? You’re not special!”
Russell pulled her aside, whispering, “Mom, stop it! We don’t want to upset him. If he posts a bad review, we’re done for.”
“But how do we know he’s legit? Maybe he’s just scamming us!”
“Even if he is, it’s just leftovers. If he wins a couple of bucks, we break even.”
Finally, Russell relented. “Alright, we’ll do it. But please make sure to edit out anything negative my mom said.”
“Sure, no problem,” Logan said politely.
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Russell returned with a smaller portion: two duck heads, a single chicken wing, a couple of strings of duck intestines, and some wilted greens underneath.
Martha grabbed the tickets greedily. “Okay, where’s my lottery tickets?”
Logan handed her five $20 tickets. She immediately began scratching them off.
