I thought there would be ten or twelve guests. When I arrived, there were nearly thirty.
Margaret stood up in a bright red dress and raised her champagne glass.
“The sponsor has arrived!” Everyone laughed. Then she announced, “My daughter-in-law makes very good money, so nobody should hold back tonight.”
I looked around. Lobster. Oysters. Steak. Imported wine. Champagne. I pulled Ethan into the hallway.
“How much is this going to cost?” “Don’t start.” “My mom only turns sixty once.”
“At least cancel the unopened bottles.” His expression turned cold. “If you can’t afford it, use your savings.”
“And if that isn’t enough, borrow money.” Then he leaned closer. “Don’t make me look cheap in front of my family.”
I went back inside. I watched more dishes arrive. I watched Margaret proudly tell everyone, “Claire always takes care of things.”
And that was when I finally understood. To them, I was not family. I was a credit card with legs.
Fifteen minutes later, I picked up my purse. “I’m going to the restroom.”
Then I walked straight out of the restaurant. Two hours later, I turned my phone back on.
Fifty missed calls. Ethan’s first message said, “Come back now.” “The bill is $4,800, and the manager is already here.”
Then another message appeared. “If you don’t come back, I’m using the emergency card.”
I immediately locked the card. Then I drove to my office. Because there was something Ethan did not know.
