"I really don't want to cost you for something I might not eat…"
"We've been over this. When an adult offers to feed you - and you trust them and the dining establishment - your job is to let them try. End of discussion."
She nodded, though she still looked confined by my statement. I understand of course… I didn't like adults telling me what I should be thinking or feeling either at that adolescent age.
"It's not even that I feel I know better than you, you must understand. Adults are inherently selfish and do not wish to feel guilt. Not providing hospitality and care to you where I can would ruin my own day, Zoé."
Paul reached over and squeezed her hand supportively. It was sweet… but my mind was already elsewhere again, weighing the pros and cons of what I was considering.
