I’m Ella, 29, and I need outside opinions because my brain is still buffering.
I’ve been dating my boyfriend, Mike, for two years. Things felt steady, serious — like engagement-ring-browsing serious. So when he said I’d finally meet his parents, I was nervous but excited.
We met at a nice, normal restaurant. I said hello, sat down… and before I could even breathe, Mike looked at me and said, completely straight-faced:
“Hope you brought your wallet. We’re starving.”
I waited for the punchline.
There wasn’t one.
His dad stood like a judge delivering a verdict. “If she’s struggling now, imagine the future.”
His mom gave me a pity smile. “Honey, you deserve a partner who contributes.”
I thought it couldn’t get worse.
Then Mike said, “You’ll be paying for dinner. It’s a test. I’ll explain later.”
A test.
Apparently, every girlfriend has to pay for the whole table to prove she won’t “use” their son someday. They said it proudly, like it was progressive instead of financial hazing.
I didn’t argue.
I went to the register, paid for my meal only, and left.
Now Mike says I’m dramatic and that I failed his family’s expectation.
So tell me — is there any universe where this isn’t a parade of red flags?
Because I’m leaning toward running.
