Matthew proudly proposed, "I'll cover the meal while you guys pay for the cake. We'll wear William's knockoff designers and borrow Isabelle's car. Your sister will be treated like a princess."
I huffed, refraining from telling him that my clothes weren't knockoffs.
Still, I didn't bother explaining. Instead, I said, "Matthew, you're probably broke after always going on dates with Isabelle. Let me handle this instead. I've been working part-time these past few days and made a bit of money."
"No way!" Benjamin refused immediately. "You worked so hard for that money. How could I let you spend it on me? I-I'll just borrow some from others."
It was heartbreaking to hear that he needed to borrow money for a single meal.
I grabbed his arm. "It's fine, really. I'm not short on money, and I was planning to treat you guys to a meal anyway. I just have to account for your sister this time."
Benjamin was puzzled. "Treat us to a meal? Why?"
"Because…" I trailed off, trying to come up with a good excuse.
I saw Matthew out of the corner of my eye and chirped, "Because I felt bad for not taking good care of Isabelle. She was abducted that day and was traumatized. I've wanted to treat you guys to a meal as an apology."
I shot Matthew a look, and he immediately chimed in, "Oh, that's what you mean? Then, yeah, you should. She was terrified and had nightmares for days afterward."
Benjamin didn't seem fully convinced. "Are you sure?"
I nodded earnestly.
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