Working as a waitress at an upscale restaurant, I’ve seen all kinds of couples. Jack and Lora used to be one of the sweet ones—always sharing smiles and splitting bills. But over time, Jack changed. He began ordering lavish meals, often with groups of friends, and expected Lora to foot the bill every time. Her smile faded, and she seemed more exhausted with each visit.
One night, Jack arrived with a group of eight and announced he’d be treating everyone. But when the $800 check arrived, he handed it to Lora without hesitation. She excused herself, and I found her crying in the restroom, telling a friend how Jack always made her pay—even though she earned more—and how drained she felt from being taken advantage of.
I couldn’t stand by any longer. I quietly advised her to fake an urgent phone call and leave. Then I approached Jack and calmly told him there had been a reservation issue and the booth needed to be cleared. With no large tables left, I offered to pack their food or direct them elsewhere. Lora took the cue and left, composed and silent. Jack’s friends soon followed, leaving him alone with the full bill.
The next day, Lora returned, smiling for the first time in a while. She handed me a generous tip and simply said, “You saved me.” I just smiled back and replied, “Seeing the look on his face? Totally worth it.” In that moment, she reclaimed her dignity, and I was glad to have helped her take the first step toward it.