53.70 - 9.60 = 44.10. 44.10 / 2 = 22.05. Each friend paid (not including the tip) $22.05.
$22.05 ;
Each friend paid $22.05 for the meal, excluding the tip. This amount is calculated by subtracting the tip from the total cost and then dividing the remaining cost by two. So, Keith and Michelle both contributed evenly to the meal's expenses.
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