DEAR HARRIETTE: I took my friend to my favorite pizza joint in my town. I have been going there for 10 years, so I know the owners and employees personally. When we ordered, my friend insisted on receiving a free water with his two slices of pizza. The slices themselves are huge, and two slices and a bottle of water cost $5. It’s not like this business is asking you to break the bank. They don’t even have cups, so everything comes in a bottle or can. This started an argument about my friend’s rights as a restaurant patron. I was mortified.

A day has passed since this incident, and I refuse to lose the bond I’ve formed at this restaurant over my buddy having a tantrum. Should I go in and apologize to the owners? – A Slice of Wrong, South Orange, New Jersey

DEAR A SLICE OF WRONG: Yes, you should apologize to the restaurant management and server about your friend’s poor behavior. Explain that you thought you were bringing a good friend to your favorite spot, but it backfired. Assure the establishment that you remain a loyal customer.

As far as your friend goes, contact him immediately as well. Let him know that you do not appreciate his argumentative attitude with the restaurant. Remind him that you took him to your favorite spot. That should have been a cue for him to be on his best behavior. Tell him how upsetting and unexpected his reaction was for you. Don’t ask him to do anything, though. His (likely shallow) apology could open a wound that is beginning to heal.

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DEAR HARRIETTE: I am a university student, so every semester is a treasure hunt to find the most affordable version of the textbook. This semester, I landed a great bargain on a business textbook and was proud of myself. When I got to class, the professor told us we should have purchased a new book or an e-book to receive the online access code. Now I’m mad because I have to shell out another $125 for a code – just so I can do my homework! I want to avoid this happening to me again, but don’t know if it is a wise move to bother professors on their breaks between semesters. Should I risk being the nagging student to save some cash? – Save That Money, Baltimore

DEAR SAVE THAT MONEY: You should absolutely write to your instructors as soon as you receive your class lists and introduce yourself. In your introduction, express your eagerness to learn in the professor’s class, and also acknowledge that you hunt for affordable books each semester. Ask if there are any special requirements for the text, including needing an online access code, so that you are fully prepared when classes begin – and so that you haven’t wasted money.

In your note, let your instructor know that you realize he or she may still be on summer break, and if so, you did not mean to intrude. You just want to do all you can in advance to be prepared for the semester. Your instructor will most likely appreciate your effort!

— Lifestylist and author Harriette Cole is president and creative director of Harriette Cole Media. You can send questions to askharriette@harriettecole.com or c/o Universal Uclick, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.