We finally managed to get together, which felt rare now that we are “grown,” whatever that means. Our group chat used to be active daily. Now it is mostly birthday reminders and the occasional “we need to catch up soon,” a phrase socially treated as a suggestion, not a plan. So this dinner felt important. Symbolic. A reunion of brotherhood. And because I am efficient and reckless, I suggested we put the whole bill on one tab. When the waiter asked if we wanted separate checks