It was New Year's Eve, and I couldn't stop smiling. I smoothed my hands over my new burgundy dress, admiring how it looked in the mirror.

I'd been saving it for something special, and tonight was the perfect occasion. My hair was styled in soft waves, and the makeup I'd done earlier gave me just the right amount of confidence.

"This is going to be a night to remember," I said out loud, grinning at my reflection.

The evening felt so important. My high school classmates had planned a reunion dinner for the first time in years. At 60, time with old friends, laughing, reminiscing, and just being together felt precious.

I'd been counting down the days. Everything was planned: leave the house by seven, get to the restaurant by eight, and spend the night surrounded by people I cared about.

I was finishing up my lipstick when my phone buzzed. I glanced at the screen and saw Jake's name.

"Hey, Mom!" His voice was cheerful, as usual.

"Hi, Jake," I said, still smiling. "What's going on?"

"Listen, we're driving over now. We're dropping Jenni and Lily off for a few hours. Just till midnight!"

I froze. "What? Jake, I have plans tonight. I'm going to the reunion—"

"It's only for a little while, Mom. We'll be back before you know it!"

"Jake, wait, I—"

But he hung up before I could finish. I stared at my phone, my chest tightening.

"This can't be happening," I muttered, glancing at the clock. It was already 6:30 p.m.

A few minutes later, I heard the crunch of tires in the driveway. I rushed to the door, hoping to reason with him.

"Hi, Mom!" Jake called out, stepping out of the car with Jenni in tow. Amanda followed behind, carrying Lily, who clutched her favorite stuffed animal.

"Jake, I can't do this tonight," I said firmly. "I'm supposed to be at the restaurant by seven."

"Don't worry," Jake said, waving his hand like it was no big deal. "We'll be back before midnight, I swear."

"You don't understand," I insisted, my voice rising. "This isn't fair. I have plans—"

"We left snacks in their bags, and they're already in their pajamas," Amanda cut in, smiling like she was doing me a favor. "They'll be no trouble at all. Thanks, Linda!"

"But—" I started again, but Jake hopped back in the car.

"Love you, Mom!" he called as the car sped off.

I stood there, stunned. Jenni and Lily looked up at me with bright smiles.

"Grandma, can we watch cartoons?" Jenni asked, tugging on my hand.

I forced a smile, though my stomach was in knots. "Sure, sweetheart. Come inside."

I settled them on the couch and handed them the remote. As they giggled over their favorite show, my phone buzzed again. It was a message from Cathy.

"The place looks amazing! Can't wait to see you. Sending pics soon!"

My heart sank. A few moments later, the group chat started filling with photos — everyone was there, beaming, glasses raised in toasts, tables sparkling with candles and decorations. They all looked so happy.

I sat down at the kitchen table, staring at my phone. The excitement I'd felt earlier was gone, replaced by disappointment and anger.

"How could they do this to me?" I whispered, feeling tears prick the corners of my eyes.