Stephanie shot a disgusted glance at Karen, sprawled at table eight, FaceTiming loudly with her boyfriend, her voice booming across the diner. She was oblivious to the chaos her family was causing around her. This wasn’t the farewell Stephanie had pictured after six loyal years serving here.
Nearby, an older woman finally leaned over, her patience visibly fraying. “Excuse me, young lady, could you please lower your voice? We’re trying to enjoy a meal here.” Karen sneered, turning her phone toward the woman. “Hey, babe, look at this old fart,” she laughed, camera aimed. “Mind your own business, Grandma!”
Stephanie’s fists clenched as the older woman’s face blanched and she got visibly shaken at the rude response. Karen’s lack of respect was infuriating, her voice filling the diner as she resumed her loud conversation, oblivious to everyone else. Stephanie took a steadying breath, her jaw tight. Karen was overdue for some payback.