I offered to treat the whole family to dinner, but my sister-in-law Nina refused to wait 45 minutes for a coupon to kick in. She claimed her kids were “starving” and insisted we eat early, dragging everyone out the door. Fine by me—I had a little plan in mind.

Nina and her kids stayed with us most weekends. The kids were great, but Nina treated our home like a free resort. That afternoon, while her children played happily outside, she suddenly demanded we all leave early for dinner—knowing it would cost nearly triple without the coupon. When I suggested waiting, she snapped, accused me of being cheap, and claimed her kids were hungry. Next thing I knew, the kids were clutching their stomachs in mock agony. It was obviously staged.

She pushed us out the door. I smiled and agreed—while quietly setting my plan in motion.At the restaurant, I pulled the waiter aside and asked that only Nina and her kids’ meals be served before 6 p.m. The rest of us would wait for the coupon time.Nina ordered the most expensive items on the menu. When only her table’s food arrived and the rest of us waited, she panicked. I explained cheerfully: she chose to eat now—without the coupon—so she could cover that tab herself.

Her face turned red when the bill came: $98. She fumbled for her card, fuming. “You’re being petty,” she hissed.No,” I said. “I’m just giving you exactly what you asked for.”She stormed out with the kids. The rest of us enjoyed our meals—delicious, peaceful, and half the price.Nina hasn’t spoken to me since. Honestly? It’s been bliss. Lesson learned: never let entitled people guilt-trip you. Sometimes the best revenge is letting them pay the price for their own behavior.