We spent hours brainstorming. By the end of the night, I had a plan. Lucas gave me a brief outline of what to say if things went awry legally. I was grateful that he had my back.

A woman in a striking dress looks determined as she heads out for the evening | Source: Midjourney
Friday came faster than I expected. Matt left, claiming it was another work meeting. “Good luck,” I said with a fake smile, my stomach lurching.
As soon as he was out the door, I grabbed my phone. Kelly, a friend who worked at the restaurant, had already secured a table right next to Matt’s. She sent a text confirming the reservation.
“Showtime,” I mumbled, put on my best dress, and headed out.

A group of friends sits anxiously at a restaurant table, waiting and watching the entrance | Source: Midjourney