Derek’s Smug Interruption
Just as I reached for the door, Derek stepped in my way, blocking the path. With a smug grin, he said, “

Don’t worry about any ‘unpaid bills,’ consider it on the house.” His mocking tone nearly made me laugh at the irony.
There I stood, the actual owner, being patronized. It was a surreal moment, but I let it slide for now. “Just let me get my purse,”
I replied, keeping my tone steady.