The Waitress Asked Me to Pay Upfront—Unaware That I Own the Restaurant

Upfront Payment Demand

Emma’s newest tactic was as bold as it was unsettling: insisting the couple pay upfront before placing their order. “It’s just our policy,” she stated with a dismissive wave, her tone dripping with indifference. The couple, visibly uneasy, hesitated before reluctantly handing over their credit card. Their flushed faces betrayed their confusion, but they complied nonetheless, leaving Emma wearing an air of smug satisfaction. I watched in disbelief as customer after customer endured the same treatment, stunned by the audacity unfolding before me.

Pattern of Behavior

I clearly remembered watching the same scenario unfold with another guest earlier. Emma had escorted them to their seats, clutching the receipt like a trophy of her success. It felt like a troubling rerun, with Emma cast as the reluctant antagonist. My gaze shifted around the room as I worked to piece together the fragments of her subtle deception. There was something bigger at play, and it was up to me to uncover the truth.