DEAR MISS MANNERS: I am a certified public accountant who frequently entertains clients and business associates during lunch and dinner meetings. I also enjoy hosting family and friends at restaurants.
When I pick up the check with the latter group, someone often makes a comment such as, "This must be a business expense or a write-off" -- suggesting that I'm either cheating my company or cheating on my taxes, rather than treating them to a nice meal at my personal expense. I'm at a net loss as to how to respond.
GENTLE READER: Good one. Miss Manners will do her best to provide some asset-stance.
Bad accounting puns aside, she recommends that when confronted with such rude accusations, you look hurt and quietly say, "I would never do that. I just wanted to take you out and enjoy your company." Even if they were joking, that ought to shame the inventory out of them.