08/08/2025
My family ‘forgot’ to invite me to the annual cruise, yet my younger cousins got tickets. my aunt texted, “thought you’d be too busy with work.” I didn’t argue. two days later, I saw a charge for the full group package on my card. I called the service and said, “I need to cancel and get a full refund.” the ship didn’t leave. later that evening, my uncle called, furious. I simply said, “thought you’d be too busy with the ocean.” and that was before step two began…
The bank notification was a digital stab in the back: $18,462. Ocean-Glide Cruises. My breath caught. That was my personal card, the one for rent and groceries.
Just two weeks ago, I'd seen the family chat explode with pictures of cruise tickets. My name wasn't on them. I'd texted my aunt. Her reply dripped with false sympathy: Hey, sweetie. We figured you’d be swamped with work and just couldn't get away! Didn’t want to bother you. Hope you understand! xo.
They hadn't forgotten me. They had erased me.
My hands were shaking as I dialed the cruise line. "I'm reporting an unauthorized charge."
The agent’s voice was maddeningly cheerful. "One moment, sir... Yes, I see it. A booking for the ‘Evergreen Family Party,’ twelve passengers, two ocean-view suites and four interior cabins. You're listed as the primary account holder and financial guarantor."
Twelve people. The suites. Financial guarantor. The words echoed in the sudden, terrifying silence of my apartment. I took a breath, my voice unnervingly steady.
"Tell me, can the financial guarantor cancel the entire booking?" Continue reading in the 1ST COMMENT 👇👇👇