I once ordered a lemonade at a cafe in an Ikea
They gave me the cup at the check-out, and I had to fill it up myself from the dispenser. I put some ice from the ice machine in the bottom, then filled my plastic 500ml cup with soft drink mix. Unfortunately, I had filled it too close to the brim for easy transportation. I took a couple of refreshing sips to lower the level in the cup. At this point I could have just walked away. Some nights when I am laying in my bed, racked with remorse, I ask myself again and again: "Why? Why didn't I just walk away?".
But I didn't walk away. A horrible plan formed in my mind, driven by an all-consuming greed. I didn't care whose life I destroyed, how many laws I broke. I didn't even think about the consequences.
I checked the ladies at the register. They were dealing with customers. They had completely forgotten about me and the fulfillment of my purchase. I looked up, trying not to be too obvious. No cctv. There was a mother near me, but she was putting sauce on her children's hotdogs, she wouldn't suspect a thing.
Trying to look casual while my heart was pounding, I returned to the drinks dispenser. As nonchalantly as I could, like I was just any normal customer, I TOPPED UP MY DRINK AGAIN WITH MORE LEMONADE THAN I HAD PAID FOR.
Suddenly fearing the hand of a store detective on my shoulder, I walked a little too quickly to the exit, and my drink spilled a little. I probably lost more than I had gained by illegal means. Even when I got to my car I knew I wouldn't be in the clear until I was at least a few miles away. The drinks holder in my car was too small for the cup, so I drank the whole thing quickly and so didn't really enjoy it. It is a crime I've had to live with for the rest of my days. I never went back to that Ikea again. I can't, the risk is too great. I gambled and won, but if I returned and they recognised me, I could lose everything.
( cumquat may will not be commenting further on the allegations, Tue 17 Jul 2012, 22:00, 6 replies)

The Ikea in Glasgow
has a sign up saying you get free refills.

Your guilt is (probably) assuaged.
(gordonjcp, Wed 18 Jul 2012, 0:19, closed)

If not then I still wouldn't feel bad. They don't pay any taxes. So they can afford to top up people's drinks.
(tyrellsOwl, Wed 18 Jul 2012, 8:08, closed)

It's a Glaswegian custom
Look at anybody here in a funny way and they'll fill you in for free.
(ubergeekian, Wed 18 Jul 2012, 9:40, closed)

I'm shuddering in revulsion, you unspeakable monster
I mean, Ikea?
(moon monkey is busy making memories worth repressing, Wed 18 Jul 2012, 9:48, closed)

haha!

(bROKEN aRROW PUA HVI Master, Wed 18 Jul 2012, 9:54, closed)

I cry shenanigans...
As this was IKEA, you didn't get "Lemonade"...

You got "Läskedryck"!!!

You liar, you!
(SatchmoR No, mummy, don't put knitting needles in my ears!, Wed 18 Jul 2012, 12:28, closed)