Stephanie’s fists clenched as she watched the older woman retreat, clearly stung. Karen’s lack of respect was infuriating, her voice still echoing as she resumed her conversation. Stephanie took a steady breath, her jaw tight, and turned toward Greg, the diner’s manager, standing watchfully behind the counter.
“Greg,” Stephanie whispered, “let’s make an itemized bill for Karen. Stephanie leaned over and whispered something in Greg’s ear. Greg raised an eyebrow, but a grin tugged at the corner of his mouth. He reached for his notepad, nodding in approval.