Stephanie emerged from the restroom, refreshed resolve fueling her every step. She spotted Karen at the booth, aggressively wiping at her kids’ clothes, muttering something about the “incompetence of backwoods staff.” But within moments, she was back on FaceTime, her shrill laughter cutting through the diner’s hum.
An older woman at the next table, visibly fed up, leaned over and called softly, “Excuse me, young lady, could you please lower your voice? We’re trying to enjoy a meal here.” Karen threw her a disdainful look. “Maybe keep your ears to yourself, Grandma.”