







































We planned a girls' trip to Cancun six months ago — five of us, all paid our own shares already. Flights booked, resort non-refundable.
My best friend "Maya" lost her job two weeks ago. I felt terrible for her. But then she called me and said since she's now "financially devastated," the rest of us should split her portion — about $800 each — so she can still come. She said "that's what friends do."
I told her I'm sorry, but I can't afford to pay for two people. I already stretched my budget for this trip. I suggested she look into travel insurance or try to get a refund.
She called me selfish, said I'm "choosing money over friendship." Now two other friends are paying her share, and they're giving me side-eyes like I'm the villain. Maya told our whole friend group I "abandoned her when she's at her lowest."
But I didn't plan this trip. I didn't lose her job. I have bills too. Am I really supposed to pay $800 just to keep the peace?