I never expected my daughter-in-law’s fancy dinner invitation to turn into a nightmare. When she abandoned me with a $5,375 bill, I knew I had to teach her a lesson.

My name’s Ruth, and I just retired after 40 years of teaching. My son Michael’s wife, Veronica, a high-powered lawyer, invited me out to celebrate. “Don’t worry about the cost,” she said. “It’s my treat.”

At the upscale restaurant, Veronica ordered the most expensive wine. We chatted about life and work. Then, she excused herself to the restroom and never returned. The bill arrived, and I realized Veronica had planned this all along. I paid the bill, determined to make things right.

The next day, I called my friend Carla, who owns a cleaning service, and my lawyer friend Charmaine. Carla’s team cleaned Veronica’s house, leaving a note listing every snide comment and backhanded compliment. Charmaine helped draft a fake lawsuit for emotional distress.

Veronica was shocked. She agreed to publicly apologize, reimburse me, and treat me with respect. From that day, she started calling more often, asking for advice, and inviting me out.

“You really taught me a lesson,” she admitted. “Never underestimate a retired teacher.”

Sometimes, tough love is what’s needed to set things right.