I Went on a Date with My Brother’s Friend – Turned out It Was a Trap

The menu made my eyes widen. Everything was outrageously expensive, but Stewart waved off my hesitation. “Don’t worry, it’s on me.”

I smiled, flattered and grateful. Our conversation flowed effortlessly. Stewart was charming, funny, and intelligent. I found myself laughing more than I had in weeks.

The evening was perfect until the bill arrived. Stewart handed over his card with a confident flourish, still in the middle of a joke. The waitress returned, her expression uneasy.

“I’m sorry, sir, but your card was declined.”

Stewart’s face dropped. “That can’t be right. Try it again.”

She did. Twice more, with the same result. Stewart’s charm vanished, replaced by a scowl. “This is ridiculous. Do you even know how to use the machine?” he snapped.

Other diners started glancing our way. I felt my face heat up. “Stewart, maybe there’s a problem with the card. Do you have another one?” I suggested, trying to ease the tension.

He glared at the waitress, then turned to me. “I swear this never happens. Someone must have screwed something up.”

Stewart looked at me sheepishly. “Do you have any cash on you?” he asked.

I was taken aback. “I told you I can’t afford this place. I don’t have that kind of money!”

Stewart’s eyes flashed with frustration. “You think I planned this? Please, just pay the bill, Jess.”

I crossed my arms, standing my ground. “No. I don’t have the money. This was your idea. And Adam’s, I should add. He said you had a good job and lived the high life.”

The tension at the table was thick. I could see the waitress shifting uneasily, the manager now standing close by.

Stewart’s face twisted in irritation. “Unbelievable.”