Chapter 6 - The Second Receipt
After Sophie placed the $4,386 bill on the adults’ table, she produced the receipt for the unauthorized deposit.
Carol’s mouth opened, but nothing came out.
Sophie addressed the family.
“Mom told me this would be a small dinner where everyone paid separately. She used my card to reserve the room, upgraded the event, and charged a deposit without my permission.”
“That isn’t true,” Carol said quickly.
Mr. Alvarez stepped into the room.
“I’m afraid the restaurant’s records support Ms. Bennett’s account.”
Carol turned toward him.
“This is a private family matter.”
“It became a business matter when a disputed card was used.”
Sophie faced the table.
“Mom told Evan that I had planned everything. She told Paula I received a promotion. She told Dennis the dinner was almost free. What did she tell the rest of you?”
The lies emerged one by one.
Cousin Melissa had been told that Sophie received an inheritance.
Uncle Ray had been told Sophie wanted to impress a new boyfriend.
Carol’s sister had been told Sophie’s company was sponsoring the event.
With each confession, Carol appeared smaller.
“You’re twisting everything,” Carol said. “I only wanted one beautiful night.”
“You could have had one,” Sophie replied. “You wanted someone else to pay for it.”
Carol’s eyes filled with tears.
In the past, those tears ended every argument. Someone comforted Carol, Sophie apologized, and Carol’s wrongdoing disappeared beneath her sadness.
This time, no one moved.
The waiter placed several smaller folders on the table.
Mr. Alvarez spoke calmly.
“We can divide the remaining balance according to each guest’s order. Anyone who selected premium wine will be responsible for that bottle.”
May you like
Aunt Paula reached for her purse.
The spell had finally broken.
