Woman Cheats in Front of her Boyfriend — Story of the Day

In a high-stakes game of deception and greed, seasoned grifter Norman is left high and dry when his attempt to swindle what he thinks is the wealthy suitor of his new girlfriend, Ella, backfires, showing him the error of his ways.

Norman pressed his palms against the cool, polished surface of the bar, his knuckles whitening as he peered across the vast expanse of the upscale open-air restaurant.

With its polished mahogany and gleaming glassware, the bar offered more than just a place to sip on expensive cocktails—it was a stage for Norman's carefully orchestrated "performances".

He was a regular patron but wasn't there merely for the ambiance or the selection of fine spirits. He frequented this establishment with a specific purpose: to search for marks for his grifts, his charming demeanor, and a keen eye for vulnerability, making him a dangerous presence to the unsuspecting.

To the untrained observer, Norman appeared as just another sophisticated guest indulging in the pleasures of high society. However, beneath this veneer of respectability lurked a calculating mind, always on the lookout for an opportunity to exploit.

The bar had become his domain, a place where wealth and naivety often intersected, providing fertile ground for his schemes. With each visit, Norman honed his craft, becoming adept at identifying potential targets—those momentarily dazzled by the luxury that surrounded them, unwittingly ripe for his deceptive practices.

Across the crowded space, Norman's eyes locked onto a familiar figure—Ella, a woman he had just started dating, their connection still fresh from just two meet-ups facilitated by Tinder—another of the realms he haunted in search of victims.

He watched, taken aback, as Ella shared an embrace and laugh with an older man, his appearance marked by an air of affluence, grey at the temples hinting at a life well-lived.

The usual hum of the restaurant, a blend of clinking glasses and subdued conversations, seemed to recede into the background as Norman grappled with surprise and a burgeoning sense of unease.

In his mind, Ella and he were in the nascent stages of what could be termed a "relationship," yet here she was, seemingly at ease in the company of another man, casting doubt on the understanding they had shared.

"Why would she do this to me?" he muttered under his breath, barely noticing the bartender's questioning glance.

Norman's gaze sharpened as he watched Ella touch the man's arm lightly, her laughter echoing across the distance. He couldn't shake the feeling of being uprooted from his own life, witnessing a scene he was never meant to see.

Taking a deep breath, Norman pushed off from the bar and made his way through the maze of tables, his determination steeling with every step. The murmurs of the crowd blended with the soft notes of a piano somewhere in the background, creating a soundtrack to his tumultuous thoughts.

As he approached their table, Ella's eyes caught his, widening in surprise. The older man turned, his expression one of mild curiosity tinged with caution.

"Norman, what are you doing here?" Ella asked, her voice a blend of surprise and apprehension.

"Could ask you the same," Norman retorted, his eyes locked on the man beside her. "Care to explain who this man is?"

The man stood, extending his hand in a gesture of peace. "I believe we haven't met. I'm Michael," he said, his voice smooth, betraying none of the tension that Norman felt coursing through his veins.

Norman ignored the hand. "Michael," he echoed, the name tasting like vinegar on his tongue. "And what exactly is your relationship with Ella?"

Ella interjected, her voice rising in defense. "Norman, sit down. You're making a scene. Michael is—"

"—Not what you think," Michael finished, his gaze steady on Norman's. "I'm—"

A waitress, sensing the rising tension, suddenly appeared, cutting Michael off. "Will you be joining the table, sir?" she asked, looking at Norman. "I'd be happy to transfer your bar tab."

"Yes, fine," Ella said quickly, offering the waitress a reassuring smile. "We were just catching up. Norman, please join us."

Norman, still standing, felt the weight of the eyes around them. The warmth of the restaurant now seemed stifling, the rich aromas from the kitchen oppressive.

"Well," Norman, began, looking Michael up and down, "I don't mind if I do, but I wouldn't want to interrupt this hot date, now would I?"

"Please, Norman, you're jumping to conclusions," Ella said. "This is not a date. Take a seat, and I'll explain everything. In fact, I'm glad you're here. Let's have a drink and all get to know each other."

Norman glanced at the offered chair, then back at Ella. Sitting down slowly, Norman exhaled, trying to collect his scattered thoughts. "I suppose you owe me an explanation. I thought we were onto something good," he started, his voice softer now, edged with the pain of uncertainty.

Ella reached across the table, her hand hovering over his. "And I owe you the truth," she replied, her eyes pleading for understanding. Ella leaned forward, her eyes locking with Norman's. "Norman, do you really think I'd cheat on you? With a wealthy older man, no less?"

Caught off guard by the question and the intensity in Ella's eyes, Norman stuttered, "I—I see you two together, laughing, touching. What am I supposed to think?"

Ella and Michael shared a quick, knowing look, an unspoken agreement forming between them. They decided to let Norman continue with his assumption, curious to see where his suspicions and apparent jealousy would lead.

Michael, without revealing his true identity, interjected smoothly. "It seems you've leaped to a rather unfortunate conclusion, young man. But let's not jump ahead of ourselves. Why don't we discuss this like adults over a nice lunch?"

Now grappling with jealousy, guilt, and a creeping sense of shame, Norman nodded, though his stance remained defensive. Doubts were planted, but the truth of Michael's identity and his relationship with Ella remained veiled in mystery.

Seizing the moment to probe deeper into Norman's psyche, Ella asked pointedly, "Norman, why would your mind immediately go to such a dark place? Do you really think so little of me? Or is it something else?"

The question hit Norman harder than he expected, forcing him to confront his actions and the underlying insecurities that drove them. "I—I guess I've been worried. About us. About losing you to someone who could offer you more than I ever could."

Observing Norman's struggle, Michael decided to push a little further, without revealing too much. "And what does that say about your trust in Ella? In what you two are building together?"

As the conversation veered into more personal territory, Norman found himself navigating through the murky waters of his own vulnerabilities, something he rarely allowed himself to do. Ella, with her calm demeanor, seemed to draw out a side of him he barely recognized.

"Ella," Norman began, his voice tinged with a hesitancy that was uncharacteristic, "I've been thinking a lot about us—about what this," he gestured faintly between them, "could be."

Sensing the shift in his tone, Ella leaned in slightly, her attention focused. "And what have you concluded from those thoughts?" she asked, her voice encouraging yet cautious.

Norman exhaled, a sigh he didn't know he'd been holding back. "I'm drawn to you, more than I've initially planned. It's not just a fleeting attraction. There's something about you that makes me envision a future, a long-term relationship, perhaps."

Ella observed him quietly, allowing him the space to continue.

"It's just—" Norman struggled to find the right words, "I'm not used to this. The idea of trust, of opening up to someone—it's new to me. I have insecurities, fears about being seen as inadequate, or not being enough."

Ella nodded, her expression softening. "Everyone has those fears, Norman. It's part of being human. But it's how we address them and share them with those we care about that matters."

Norman, dropping his guard suddenly, looked at Ella. "I want to be better, for you. I see something with you that I haven't seen before. A potential for something real, something lasting."

Ella responded with both gentleness and firmness. "Norman, I want that too, and I'm with you because of who you are, not what you have. I thought you knew that."

"Look, if you're as well-off as I think you are," Norman said, turning abruptly to Michael, his voice laced with a newfound confidence that bordered on audacity, "then maybe this little get-together isn't such a bad thing after all. Maybe we could all become friends!"

Ella and Michael exchanged a glance, neither one betraying the surprise at Norman's pivot. Ella's expression hardened slightly, a hint of disappointment flickering in her eyes. Michael, however, maintained his composure, curious to see how far Norman would take his assumption.

"You see," Norman continued, leaning in as if to share a secret, "there are a lot of opportunities for people with resources. And being connected to someone like you," he nodded at Michael, "could really open some doors for me. For us," he hastily added, glancing at Ella.

Ella's voice was cool, a stark contrast to the warmth it usually carried. "Norman, are you suggesting what I think you're suggesting?"

Norman, oblivious to the changing currents, plowed ahead. "Yes, think about it. Investments, connections, and maybe even a startup. With your backing, Michael, we could really make something of ourselves."

Michael raised an eyebrow, his demeanor calm but his voice carrying a sharp edge. "And what role do you see yourself playing in this venture, Norman? Besides leveraging relationships for financial gain, that is."

Norman laughed, a sound that lacked genuine mirth. "Well, I've got ideas. And with Ella's business savvy and your capital, we're sure to succeed."

Ella interjected, her patience wearing thin. "So, it's not about us, or even me, anymore. It's about what you can gain from being with me, or rather, from who you think Michael is to me?"

The conversation, once a test of Norman's character, had devolved into a revelation of his priorities. Norman's eagerness to exploit his relationship with Ella for potential wealth laid bare a materialistic streak that Ella had hoped did not exist.

Michael, seizing the moment to teach Norman a lesson, leaned forward. "Let's say I'm interested in this, um, partnership. What's the first step? How do you plan to utilize these so-called connections and resources?"

With a blend of eagerness and naivety, Norman launched into a hastily concocted business pitch. "So, imagine this," he began, trying to muster the semblance of expertise, "an app that revolutionizes the way we connect. It's not just social media; it's a platform for monetizing personal skills. People can share, say, their cooking or art, and then—this is the kicker—we link them with buyers. Directly. It's about creating a community that thrives on sharing and earning."

His interest seemingly piqued, Michael leaned in, though his demeanor hinted at skepticism rather than genuine intrigue. "Quite the venture," he observed, "and how do you foresee overcoming the hurdle of market saturation? What makes your idea stand out?"

Caught slightly off guard, Norman stumbled for a moment before rallying. "Uh, well, it's about leveraging the latest in AI, right? We'll use predictive algorithms to tailor the user experience and make it super personalized. It's all about big data, understanding the consumer."

The pause that followed was filled with the ambient sounds of the restaurant, patrons blissfully unaware of the strange exchange at one table of apparently well-heeled diners.

Shifting gears, Michael's inquiry took on a more probing nature, veering into the personal under the guise of casual interest. "How did you two meet, by the way? if I may ask? There must be quite a story behind such ambitious plans for the future."

Sensing an opening to win over what he perceived as a rival, Norman replied with pride, "Actually, we connected on a dating app. It's been a whirlwind, really. Only a few dates, but when it's right, you just know."

Ella, silent thus far, cast a glance at Norman with a growing sense of disappointment, their story apparently becoming reduced to a mere anecdote in Norman's narrative.

"And so quickly you've moved to discussing business ventures and financial gains?" Michael prodded, his tone laced with a challenge as if gauging Norman's intentions towards Ella.

Norman, undeterred and perhaps oblivious to the undercurrents, plowed on. "Well, life's short, right? And Ella, she's amazing—so smart, so connected. It'd be foolish not to think about how we can build something big together."

Michael's response was measured, yet there was a sharpness to it that belied his calm exterior. "Interesting perspective. And throughout these plans of yours, where does Ella fit in? Is she a partner in this venture, or a stepping stone to your ambitions?"

Now slightly flustered under Michael's scrutinizing gaze, Norman tried to backpedal, "No, no, it's not like that. Ella's the heart of it all. I mean, we're in this together."

The surrounding laughter and chatter of the restaurant seemed to recede into the background as Ella wrestled with the implications of Norman's words. The man she had been immediately attracted to was unveiling himself as someone entirely different.

The conversation, meant to be a light lunch, had delved into revealing the depth—or lack thereof—of Norman's character and intentions. Without explicitly revealing his relationship to Ella, Michael had adeptly exposed Norman's superficial aspirations, setting the stage for a confrontation that would ultimately test the foundations of Norman and Ella's relationship.

The lunch continued under a somewhat tense atmosphere, the previous conversation lingering like a cloud over the table. Maintaining his guise as a wealthy suitor, Michael shifted the focus directly onto Norman, his questions becoming more pointed.

"So, Norman," Michael said, his voice smooth yet carrying an edge that suggested a man used to getting to the heart of matters, "Ella tells me you've had quite the adventurous life. I'm curious, what values do you hold dear? In both life and in business?"

Sensing a challenge, Norman straightened in his chair, eager to impress. "Well, I believe in seizing opportunities. You know, making the most of what comes your way. In business, it's all about the hustle, staying ahead of the game."

Observing quietly, Ella noted no mention of integrity, loyalty, or depth in Norman's response. Her heart sank as she realized how much she had overlooked in their brief encounters.

"And what about in relationships?" Michael pressed, his gaze unwavering. "How do you apply those values when it comes to the people you care about?"

Norman paused, the question catching him off guard. "Relationships are—well—they're partnerships, right? It's about finding someone who complements your ambitions, who can help you climb higher."

Ella couldn't help but interject, her voice tinged with disappointment. "Is that all a relationship is to you, Norman? A means to an end?"

Norman, flustered by the turn in the conversation, tried to backtrack. "No, that's not what I meant. Ella, you know I care about you. It's just that life's a game, and I'm playing to win."

Michael leaned in, his demeanor calm but authoritative. "And where does love fit into this game of yours? Or is that just another strategy for success?"

Norman's discomfort grew palpable. He had not anticipated this line of questioning, especially not from what he perceived as a potential rival in romance. "Look, of course, love's important. It's just that in today's world, you've got to be practical too."

Seizing the moment, Ella decided to delve deeper, hoping to uncover the truth of the man she had begun caring for. "Norman, when we first met, you talked about wanting a genuine connection, about finding someone who understands you. Was any of that real, or just part of the 'game'?"

Norman looked between Ella and Michael, his confidence waning under their combined scrutiny. "Ella, of course, it was real. I just think that we can have it all—love, success, the whole package."

The conversation had veered into uncomfortable territory for Norman, his earlier bravado replaced by a defensive posture. Ella and Michael exchanged a glance, a silent acknowledgment passing between them. Norman's answers had revealed a man more interested in the material and superficial aspects of life, his values clashing starkly with their own.

Ella's patience had worn thin, her disappointment in Norman turning into disbelief and resolve. As the conversation at the table reached a natural pause, Ella took the opportunity to suggest a more private discussion. "Norman, can we talk? Just the two of us, over there," she said, nodding towards a secluded corner of the peaceful garden setting.

Sensing the seriousness in Ella's tone, Norman followed her lead, albeit with a hint of apprehension. Once they were alone, away from the eyes and ears of Michael and the other diners, Ella didn't waste time mincing words.

"Norman, I'm having a hard time understanding your behavior today. The things you've said—it's like I don't even know you," Ella said, her voice steady yet tinged with sadness.

Norman, however, seemed unfazed by the criticism. Instead of reflecting on his actions, he doubled down, his response laced with a shocking proposal. "Ella, listen, I know how this looks, but we've got an incredible opportunity here. Think about it—your, uh, friend over there looks loaded. Why not take advantage of the situation?"

Ella's eyes widened in disbelief as Norman continued, oblivious to the growing horror in her expression. "I'm saying, let's play along. He obviously likes you. He seems so interested in you; how about agreeing to marry him? It doesn't have to be real. We just need to gain his trust, find where he keeps his wealth, and then—we can take what we can. It's foolproof!"

Ella felt a chill run down her spine; the man before her was unrecognizable as the one she'd thought she had begun to develop feelings for. Yet, instead of walking away, a plan began to form in her mind. She decided to agree, but not for the reasons Norman believed. "Okay, Norman," she said, her voice calm but her heart racing with a mix of anger and determination. "We'll do it your way. But we do it carefully, and we follow my lead."

Norman nodded eagerly, visibly relieved and unaware of Ella's true intentions. "Absolutely, whatever you say. This is going to be perfect, Ella. You'll see!"

As they returned to the table, Ella wore a mask of compliance, her mind racing with plans to thwart Norman's despicable scheme and expose his greed and betrayal in a way that would leave no doubt about his character. She knew the risks of what she was about to do, but the thought of letting Norman's deceit go unchallenged was unthinkable.

This moment marked a turning point, not just in Ella's relationship with Norman but in her own understanding of herself and the lengths she was willing to go to protect her family and her integrity.

The stage was set for a confrontation that would reveal Norman's true colors and test Ella's courage in ways she had never imagined.

Seated again, with a plan set in motion, Ella's demeanor had shifted subtly, a transformation unnoticed by Norman but keenly observed by Michael. The air was charged with a tension that Norman mistook for victory, his smile one of smug anticipation.

As they resettled into their seats, Norman, buoyed by his conversation with Ella, decided to push the envelope further. "Michael, I've been thinking," he began, his voice laced with a feigned sincerity that he hoped would mask his true intentions. "You and Ella seem to have a—how shall I put it—a special connection. Have you ever thought about making it official? I don't mind admitting that the better man has won, as the saying goes, I concede defeat."

Michael, instantly understanding the direction Norman was steering the conversation in, played along with a nod. "Norman, that's an interesting proposition. Ella, what do you think? Is that something you'd consider?"

Ella, her heart racing with resolve, met the older man's gaze—a silent communication passing between them. "Michael, I—I would be honored," she said, her voice steady despite the turmoil inside.

Norman's eyes lit up with a mixture of surprise and glee, not realizing the depth of the trap being set around him. "This is fantastic!" he exclaimed, clapping his hands together in delight. "Think about it, Ella. This could be the beginning of a whole new life."

Michael, giving Norman a pointed look, took Ella's hand across the table, slipped a random but valuable ring off one of his fingers, and said: "Ella, will you marry me?"

Ella paused for effect, allowing the moment to stretch, then softly replied, "Yes, Michael. I will."

The response sent Norman into a frenzy of excitement. "This is incredible! I mean, congratulations! We need to celebrate." Norman's mind raced ahead, visions of wealth and luxury clouding his judgment, utterly oblivious to the fact that he was celebrating his own downfall.

As the waiter approached to take their order for a celebratory round of drinks, Ella and Michael continued to stage the "engagement" scene to perfection. The importance of the situation was not lost on them; this charade, while necessary to expose Norman's true character, was a delicate game.

Ella, playing her part to a T, leaned into Michael, whispering loud enough for Norman to hear, "Thank you, Michael. I've never been happier."

Norman, caught up in his own world, failed to notice the lack of genuine emotion in Ella's voice or the subtle cues that would have revealed the truth. Instead, he busied himself with fantasies of the future, a future built on deceit and manipulation.

This moment, fabricated though it was, would come to define a turning point in their relationships. Ella, committed to revealing Norman's opportunism, and Michael, playing his part flawlessly, had engineered a scenario that would test Norman's mettle and expose his true intentions for all to see.

Norman, unable to contain his excitement and blinded by visions of grandeur, gave an order to the waiter: "Bring us two bottles of your finest champagne! Spare no expense," he said, a wide grin plastered across his face—fully expecting Michael to cover the extravagant order.

The waiter, accustomed to the high-flying demands of the restaurant's clientele, nodded professionally. "Of course, sir. Our finest would be the Château Bel Air 2008, quite exceptional."

"That sounds perfect. Two bottles of that," Norman confirmed, not even flinching at the name or the implied cost, his eyes gleaming with anticipation.

As the waiter moved away to fulfill the order, Norman turned his attention to Michael, his curiosity about the man's wealth no longer subtle. "So, Michael, what is it you do? You must be quite successful to afford such spontaneity. Weddings—and beautiful women like Ella here—cost a lot of money!"

Michael, maintaining his composure, played along with Norman's inquiry. "Well, I've been fortunate in my ventures. I'm involved in various businesses—technology, real estate, a bit of venture capitalism. It keeps me busy."

Norman, his interest piqued, leaned in closer. "That sounds incredibly lucrative. If you don't mind me asking, what kind of figures are we talking about annually?"

Michael, offering a nonchalant shrug, replied, "It varies, but let's just say it's more than enough to live comfortably and indulge in the finer things in life."

Not satisfied with the vague answer, Norman pressed further, his tactlessness cloaked under the guise of admiration. "And what about assets? Cars, yachts, properties? I've always believed that a man's success can be measured by the toys he keeps."

Observing the exchange, Ella fought to keep her expression neutral, despite the growing discomfort at Norman's brazenness.

Michael, sensing an opportunity to further the ruse, indulged Norman's curiosity. "Well, I do have a collection of vintage cars. A passion of mine. And a few properties around the globe—places to escape to when the mood strikes."

Norman, his imagination running wild with images of opulence and luxury, barely contained his glee. "Incredible! And here I thought I was ambitious. You're living the dream, man!" By then, their extravagant meals had arrived, and Norman tucked in heartily, stuffing his mouth with food using his fingers.

When the waiter returned with the champagne, expertly popping the corks and pouring the golden liquid into their glasses, Norman raised his glass for a toast. "To Michael, a true titan of industry, and to new beginnings."

Ella and Michael, their glasses in hand, joined the toast, their eyes meeting over the rim of their glasses—a silent acknowledgment of the foolishness they were witnessing in the other man. The champagne, though exquisite, tasted bittersweet to Ella, each sip a reminder of the reality they were weaving to ensnare Norman in his own greed.

As the celebratory atmosphere lingered around the table, with Norman basking in the illusion of his impending windfall, Ella, feigning excitement, took out her phone, "I should call my parents," she said. "They'll want to hear this wonderful news right away." Norman nodded enthusiastically, too engrossed in his fantasies to sense the impending revelation.

Ella tapped her phone screen, selecting a contact labeled "Daddy" for Norman to see. She made a point of angling the screen towards him, ensuring he caught a glimpse of the name before placing the call. The phone dialed out, the ringtone filling the space between them all.

Norman, oblivious to the significance at first, then began glancing around—with confusion. Another phone very nearby was ringing insistently.

Norman turned toward Michael, nonplussed, only to see him retrieving his vibrating phone from his pocket. He held the phone up theatrically for Norman to see the caller ID displayed on the screen: "Ella", it read, accompanied by a photo of the woman gracing the table with them.

Norman's eyes widened in shock as the pieces clicked into place. Michael answered the call with a simple, "Hello, darling," looking warmly at his daughter across the table.

Maintaining her composure, Ella spoke into the phone, her eyes locked on Norman's, which were wide with shock and realization. "Hi, Daddy," Ella replied, "I have some big news. Norman and I are breaking up."

The silence that followed was deafening. Norman's face drained of color as he looked from Ella to Michael, the implications of his actions crashing down around him like a tidal wave. The man he had assumed to be a wealthy suitor, a target for his greed, was, in fact, Ella's father.

The realization hit Norman like a physical blow, his scheme unraveling in the span of a few heartbeats. The depth of his mistake, the betrayal of Ella's trust, and the exposure of his true character were laid bare for all to see.

Ella ended the call, placing her phone on the table, her gaze never wavering from Norman's. Michael, breaking the silence, looked directly at Norman saying, "Well, my man, it seems you've made a grave error in judgment. Not only by underestimating my daughter and betraying her trust but by picking the wrong man to try and swindle."

Norman, once so eloquent in deceit, struggled to find words, any words, that might salvage his dignity, but none were forthcoming. The elaborate charade he had played a part in, driven by greed and opportunism, was over, leaving him exposed and humiliated.

Ella rose from her seat, her movements deliberate and composed. She walked around the table to stand beside her father, their united front a silent testament to Norman's folly. Still reeling from the revelation, Norman watched as the two shared a look of understanding and, to his dismay, a hint of mockery.

"Norman," Michael said, his voice cool and collected, "it seems you've painted yourself into quite the corner. But don't worry, I'm quite experienced in helping my daughter deal with, ah, ex-boyfriend problems."

Standing tall beside her father, Ella couldn't help but let a small smile creep onto her lips, the absurdity of Norman's grand plans laid bare for all to see. "Yes, Dad, I suppose I should have come to you first with my relationship issues," she said, her tone light, yet laced with an undercurrent of scorn.

Norman, desperate to regain some semblance of control, stumbled over his words. "Ella, Michael, I—I think there's been a huge misunderstanding. I was just trying to—"

"To what, Norman?" Ella interrupted, "Exploit a situation for your own gain? Manipulate those around you?"

Norman's attempts at redemption floundered as he faced the undeniable truth of his actions, his earlier confidence evaporating under their withering gaze. "I thought we had something real, Ella. I was just caught up in the moment, that's all."

Michael shook his head, a wry smile playing at the corners of his mouth. "Caught up in the moment? Norman, it's clear your moments are more about opportunism than genuine feeling. Perhaps this will be a valuable lesson in honesty and integrity for you."

Ella nodded in agreement with her father, the bond between them unshakeable in the face of Norman's opportunistic deceit. "I hope you find what you're looking for, Norman. But it won't be with me. And certainly not through dishonesty and manipulation," Ella finished,

As the shame of his situation began to settle truly, Norman watched helplessly as Michael signaled for the waiter with a composed hand gesture. The waiter promptly approached, ready to finalize their experience at the restaurant.

"Could we have the bill, please? And please split it, if you don't mind. My daughter and I will take care of our part—just put it on my account—and Norman here will settle the champagne," Michael stated, his voice laced with a hint of irony that did not go unnoticed by Norman.

The waiter nodded, understanding the request, and promptly returned with two separate tabs. Michael looked at Norman with a feigned expression of gratitude. "Norman, that was very generous of you to celebrate with such exquisite champagne. Thank you."

Ella, barely concealing her smirk, stood up alongside her father, preparing to leave. Norman could only muster a weak nod, still in disbelief at how quickly his fortunes had turned.

As Ella and Michael left the restaurant, a veneer of dignity surrounding their exit, Norman was left alone to face the consequences of his actions. He opened the billfold, and his eyes widened in shock yet again; a stark figure was highlighted at the bottom, along with the drinks he'd indulged at the bar: $500 for the champagne alone.

Norman's face blanched as he read the amount. "Will that be cash or card, sir?" the waiter asked with a straight face, well aware of this shyster's often underhanded dalliances in the restaurant.

"I don't have this kind of money," Norman stammered, panic rising in his voice, while the waiter stood by patiently.

Adopting a more stern demeanor, the waiter replied, "Well, in that case, sir, if you're unable to settle your bill, I'm afraid I have no choice but to call the police and report this as theft."

Norman's mind raced, searching for any way out of the predicament he had so thoughtlessly steered into. The realization that he was not only humiliated but potentially facing legal repercussions for his hubris was a bitter pill to swallow.

His scheme to exploit what he perceived as an opportunity had backfired spectacularly, leaving him with a potential criminal charge hanging over his head. The irony of his situation was not lost on him; in trying to deceive others, he had ultimately deceived himself, landing in a predicament far removed from the glamorous future he had envisioned.

Rifling through his wallet in a last-ditch effort to find a solution, his fingers stumbled upon a credit card tucked away, almost forgotten, designated "for emergencies." This moment, fraught with anxiety and the buzz of defeat in his ears, marked a turning point.

With resignation, Norman handed over the "emergency" credit card to the waiter, its limit just enough to cover the extravagant bill he had accrued. The relief of avoiding immediate legal trouble was overshadowed by the realization that this debt would be a long-lasting burden—a tangible reminder of his folly.

As he signed the receipt, the weight of the debt settled in. Norman understood that this was not just a financial obligation but a symbolic one. Once a safeguard, the credit card now represented the cost of his greed and manipulation. It was a debt that extended beyond the monetary value, touching the very core of his moral compass.

In the quiet that followed Ella and her father's departure, Norman was left to contemplate the path that had led him to this moment. The realization that true wealth lay not in exploiting others but in fostering genuine relationships dawned on him slowly, and painfully. The credit card, now burdened with the price of his folly, symbolized the beginning of a long journey toward redemption.

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