He knew the truth.
He had watched me enter my credit card information.
Every flight, hotel, and transfer confirmation had been sent to him.
But my son remained silent.
His silence hurt more than Vanessa’s cruelty.
She wanted to humiliate me.
And he was willing to let her.
So I smiled.
“All right,” I said quietly. “I’ll stay out of your way.”
I moved to another seat and opened the reservations on my phone.
My card guaranteed the flights, resort suite, transfer, and anniversary package.
The remaining charges would be processed after arrival.
I removed my payment method.
A warning appeared:
“Services may be canceled if another payment method is not provided.”
I pressed Confirm.
During the flight, Vanessa drank champagne and posted photographs from first class.
“Finally taking the luxury vacation we worked so hard for.”
Michael saw me reading it.
He looked ashamed.
He still said nothing.
When we landed in Cabo, Vanessa rushed toward the private transfer desk.
The employee entered their names.
His smile vanished.
“I’m sorry. Your transfer and resort reservation have been flagged for non-payment.”
Vanessa lowered her sunglasses.
“That’s impossible.”
“The card guaranteeing the booking was removed. Unless you provide another payment method, we cannot release the vehicle or confirm your suite.”
Several travelers turned toward them.
Vanessa’s face burned red.
