Perhaps the vacant expression on my face had triggered some guilt in Bart's heart. The man stepped forward and wrapped his arms around me. "Nora, I know I was wrong before. Let’s leave the past in the past, okay? Don’t make things difficult for Karen. I’ve reserved a spot at your favorite Japanese restaurant. Since you’ve been working out, we can order some sashimi and lighter options."
"I don’t like Japanese food," I stated flatly.
"Nora, you’re being unreasonable. That Japanese restaurant is really famous! Bart had to reserve the spot two days in advance. Even if you don’t like it, you shouldn’t waste his effort, right?" Karen said softly.
Bart's face darkened. "Nora, I'm giving you an olive branch here. Why are you always so ungrateful? Can’t you just be reasonable for once?"
"So, going to dinner with you two makes me reasonable?" I was too tired to argue anymore. An overwhelming sense of irritation began to rise.
Bart and Karen exchanged a wordless glance of exasperation.
"Fine, let's go! However, after dinner, I need to get home early to study my lines." I finally gave in.
The moonlight was beautiful that night and I practiced my character’s graceful walk on the way.