My mother-in-law brought thirty people to her birthday dinner and announced in front of everyone, “My daughter-in-law is paying, so order whatever you want.” When I saw the bill approaching $5,000, I pretended I was going to the restroom and quietly walked out. Two hours later, I had fifty missed calls from my husband, but he still had no idea what documents I had just taken with me.

PART 7

So when Gertrude began planning her birthday, I suggested a restaurant in La Jolla.

Good food.

Nice atmosphere.

Reasonable prices.

A place where twelve people could celebrate without destroying anyone’s savings.

PART 8

Gertrude laughed.

“That’s where you want to take me?”

“My friends are going to think my successful executive daughter-in-law is cheap.”

I reminded her I was a marketing manager.

Not a billionaire.

PART 9

Two days later, she called me.

“I made the reservation.”

“Where?”

“Mariner’s Crown.”

My stomach tightened.

PART 10

Mariner’s Crown was one of the most expensive seafood restaurants in Del Mar.

Ocean views.

Private dining rooms.

Imported wines.

Whole lobsters priced like jewelry.

PART 11

“How many people?”

I asked.

“A few.”

Gertrude replied.

That should have worried me more.