I covered Mother’s Day for my mother-in-law—only for her to extend it into a full-family feast and slip me the bill

My husband and I planned a quiet Mother’s Day dinner for our moms at a fancy restaurant, expecting a small, special celebration. Instead, my mother-in-law showed up with a big crowd of strangers and then handed me the $1,250 bill.

I’m Sherin, 32, a working mom juggling two kids and a demanding job, often feeling like everyone expects me to be a free ATM and babysitter. Despite the stress, I wanted to treat our moms properly after my recent promotion.

At the restaurant, my mother-in-law turned the intimate dinner into a huge party, ordering expensive food and drinks for her extended family and friends—without telling us. When the bill arrived, she insisted I pay for everything, bragging about my raise.

Fed up, I refused to cover their orders and only paid for what we originally planned. My husband supported me, and my mom quietly agreed. After some tension, I reminded everyone this was about appreciation, not exploitation.

On the way home, I felt relieved standing my ground, realizing sometimes self-respect is worth more than money or keeping the peace.