My brother’s latest setup landed me on a disastrous date with his friend, Stewart, at a swanky restaurant. As tensions escalated and the manager threatened to call the police, I realized just how far Adam had gone, leaving me to wonder how we’d escape.

“Jess, you gotta meet this guy,” Adam said, lounging on my couch. “Stewart. Works with me. Real stand-up guy. Stable job, nice car, the works.” Despite my reservations, I agreed to the date, hoping this time would be different.

The evening started well. Stewart picked me up in a shiny sedan and took me to a luxurious restaurant. “Order whatever you like,” he said confidently. But when the bill came, his card was declined repeatedly. “This is ridiculous,” Stewart snapped at the waitress.

I was mortified as he asked me for money. “I can’t afford this place,” I said, feeling trapped. We were stuck, with the manager now involved. “Do you have another form of payment?” he asked Stewart, who looked desperate.

Desperate, I called Adam, furious. “How’s the date?” he asked, laughing. I demanded he come fix the mess. He eventually arrived, paid the bill, and shrugged off my anger. “It was just a prank,” he said.

Stewart apologized, and I realized my brother’s pranks had gone too far. It was time to reassess my trust and set new boundaries. As I walked home, I knew things had to change. “Goodnight, Stewart,” I said, my voice tinged with regret.