It was an awful date that my brother just set up for me to go on with his friend Stewart. I discovered the full scope of Adam’s plan when we were stranded at an upscale restaurant with an unpaid bill and the manager threatened to call the police. I couldn’t help but worry how we were going to escape this situation.
Adam said, his face beaming as though he had just made a wonderful discovery, “You need to meet this guy, Jess.” Seated comfortably on my couch, he began flipping through channels.
“Who are you speaking of?” With my eyes glued on my laptop, I inquired.
Stewart. He collaborates with me. He’s a really kind man. Excellent work, a lovely vehicle, the entire deal.
I rolled my eyes. “Is this one of your setups again?”
“No, really! He is unique. You will truly enjoy him. He has also been inquiring about you.
With Adam’s poor history of setups, I groaned and became doubtful, but his excitement about Stewart piqued my interest. “All right, but I won’t trust your setups anymore if this doesn’t work out.”
Adam grinned. “Agree. I promise you’ll thank me afterwards.
Despite my doubts, I spent the next several hours meticulously getting ready in an effort to create a good impression. With all the cosmetics and clothing, my place was a complete mess by the time I was ready. I was nervous, but Adam’s support got me through.
Stewart showed up driving a brand-new vehicle. I couldn’t help but notice the car’s smooth engine hum and clean leather fragrance as soon as I climbed inside.
“Hello, Jess.” His grin was genuine as he greeted me.
Yes, I am that person. Stewart, nice to meet you.
Similarly. By the way, you look fantastic.
I reddened and relaxed a little. “Many thanks. Where are we going, then?
“I figured we could check out this new downtown restaurant. Although upscale, the cuisine is fantastic.
“It sounds good,” I said, astonished by the high-end selection.
The restaurant was elegant but subtle, reminiscent of something from a movie. I felt a little underdressed for the occasion. Stewart led me to our table and appeared completely at ease as he struck up a conversation with the host.
“This place is breathtaking,” I said as I took in my surroundings.
“Only the best,” he winked to say. “Place any order you choose.”
Though the menu was rather expensive, Stewart waved away my concerns. “Don’t worry, I’ll handle it.”
I felt flattered and thankful, so I smiled. Our talk went quite well together. Stewart was witty, wise, and kind. It was the most laughter I had in weeks.
It was a wonderful evening until the bill showed up. Still in the middle of a joke, Stewart confidently handed out his card. The waitress reappeared with a contrite expression.
“Sir, I apologize, but your card was not accepted.”
Stewart’s expression dipped. That isn’t possible. Give it another go.
Yes, she did. More than thrice, with the same outcome. Stewart’s charisma vanished and was replaced by annoyance. “This is absurd. “Are you even familiar with operating the machine?” he yelled.
People turned to stare at us. Feeling embarrassed, I said, “Stewart, perhaps there is a problem with the card. Is there another one you have?
Gesturing at the waitress, he looked at me. This never occurs. It must have been a mistake by someone.
Stewart gave me a shy gaze. He said, “Do you have any cash on you?”
It stunned me. “I told you that I couldn’t afford this location. That type of money is not mine!”
Stewart’s eyes lit up with annoyance. “Do you believe I had this planned? Just pay the bill, please, Jess.
I stood up and folded my arms. Not at all. I lack the necessary funds. You came up with this concept. and Adam’s as well, really. He responded, “You lived the high life and had a good job.”
There was a noticeable tension. The manager was standing next to the uneasy-looking waitress.
Stewart’s irate expression contorted. “Incredible.”
I said, embarrassed, “I’m going to the bathroom,” needing a moment to collect myself.
I went inside and leaned against the sink, breathing deeply. There was a buzz on my phone. Adam sent a message asking, “How’s it going?”
I looked at the screen, trying to think of a way to justify the disaster. In an attempt to relax myself, I sprayed water on my face. I had to admit what was going on.
I observed Stewart and the waitress fighting back at the table, with the manager now getting involved. As I got closer, my heart raced.
“Everything resolved?” While trying not to panic, I asked.
Stewart turned to face me, his temper barely contained. “They claim that my card is invalid. Is this really true?
I uttered the desperate thought, “Maybe we should just leave.”
He answered, “We can’t just leave without paying the bill.” “There’s no doubt they’ll catch us and make an example of us.”
I gave a headshake. “So we’re stuck,”
The supervisor intervened. “Sir, this needs to be resolved. Do you have an other payment method?
Stewart beseeched me with his eyes. I firmly shook my head.
His confidence vanished, and he whispered, “We’ll have to figure something out.”
I had a terrible sensation that the evening would not end. Stewart got into a heated argument with the oncoming security guy.
“I warned you my card was having problems! If necessary, give my bank a call.
The guard firmly said, “We’ll have to involve the authorities if you can’t pay.”
My heart fell. “Stewart, what are your plans?”
I didn’t anticipate this, Jess. Could you please assist? only once, please? He begged.
“I am unable to.” I felt stuck and said, “I told you, I don’t have that kind of money.”
Once more, my phone buzzed. Adam sent a message that said, “How’s the date, Sis? ;)”
I showed Stewart the message, furious. “Did Adam realize you couldn’t afford to buy this?”
Stewart appeared sincere in his confusion. “I’m not sure. He only positioned us. However—
How about the vehicle? How are you going to pay for it? For a car like that, you need strong credit.
He seemed defeated as he sighed. “I hired the automobile from Adam. It would impress you, he added. In addition, he promised to deposit funds into my account to pay the date, but it doesn’t seem like he did.
I turned to face the guard and said, “May we go outside? To fix this, I have to give someone a call.
With the guard by our side, we stood outside in the refreshing night air. With barely control over my wrath, I called Adam.
“Jess! How is today’s date going?
“What did you do, Adam? Stewart’s debt is unpaid! It’s enormous. He was good for it, as you mentioned. How could you arrange for us in this manner?
He chuckled. “Calm down, Jess. Just a little extra thrill-factor. If necessary, use your card.
Are you joking with me? Come on down and make this right. Right now.
“All right, all right. Still laughing, he responded, “I’m on my way.”
Enraged, I hung up. “He is approaching. Let’s hold off.
Stewart slumped dejectedly against the wall. “I truly apologize, Jess. He accomplished this, and I had no idea.
Weary, I shrugged. “You’re not to blame. My brother is the blunderer.
Adam showed up, still beaming. What’s up with the bill, buddy?
I gave him a fierce look. Adam, this isn’t funny. You overreached yourselves. Why make this setup for us? For amusement only?
He dismissedively waved. Okay, I’ll make the payment. Unwind.”
Adam entered and left shortly after, returning with a receipt. Everything is resolved. Joyful?”
“You believe this to be a joke? You made me feel ashamed,” I yelled.
Adam gave a shrug. “Jess, brighten up. It’s all a joke. I wanted to give you a little more thrill in life.
Stewart expressed regret once more. “I was clueless.”
“Don’t worry, Stewart. I gave Adam a glare and replied, “This isn’t your fault.”
It seemed chilly and oppressive outside the restaurant. The security man kept a careful eye on us. Stewart moved uncomfortably. “Jess, I really hope you can pardon me. To make it up to you, please allow me.
I slowly nodded. Perhaps. I just need some time to reflect.
Adam punched my arm with a cheeky smile on his face. Jess, hurry up. It wasn’t too horrible.
I gave a headshake. Adam, you just don’t understand it. You went too far.
Stewart silently apologized as Adam whistled his way out of the room. “I apologize for tonight.” I wasn’t prepared for this.
Silently, I murmured, “It’s okay.” “I comprehend.”
We both felt a little disappointed at the same time. I felt my brother had deceived me as we said our goodbyes. Still feeling remorse, Stewart watched me leave.
“Sleep well, Jess,” he said.
“Goodnight, Stewart,” I said, regretting what I had done.
I had to reconsider how much I trusted my brother and the others in my immediate vicinity as I made my way home. It was time to establish some boundaries because Adam’s antics had become excessive.
How would you have responded in the situation?