I just landed a major promotion at work, and my in-laws decided to throw me a “surprise” celebration at a high-end restaurant. It felt thoughtful at first, and I appreciated the gesture—until the check arrived. The total was $860. My mother-in-law smiled and said, “Well, with that new paycheck, you’ve got this one!” The table chuckled lightly, but I felt uneasy. I had never agreed to host the event; I had simply been invited to it.
