My story starts off badly but ends on a positive note. It’s about my Gran-Gran, who is the sweetest lady and practically raised me and my brothers during our parents’ divorce. She is incredibly dear to me.

Ahead of her 83rd birthday, Gran-Gran, despite her poor health, planned a brunch for herself and invited everyone. She even made her own bread and pastries, handwriting the invitations herself. I received the invite a week in advance, but due to work, I arrived 10 minutes late.

When I walked in, I found Gran-Gran cleaning up, alone. She revealed that no one had shown up for her birthday. Heartbroken and angry, I vowed to make it up to her and teach my family a lesson. I fabricated a story, telling my mother that Gran-Gran had fallen and was in the hospital. I also told my brother and other relatives the same, making them feel guilty and convincing them to send money for the supposed medical bills.

After collecting money from my family, I took Gran-Gran on a surprise trip to a beach resort she’d always wanted to visit. We had the best time, and I posted pictures online, tagging family members. They quickly realized they’d been tricked. I calmly reminded them they’d broken Gran-Gran’s heart by not attending her party.

When we returned, Gran-Gran was glowing with happiness. My family, however, still gave me the cold shoulder, but they never missed another family event. Although I felt a bit guilty for deceiving them, seeing Gran-Gran so happy made it all worthwhile.

Do you think I overreacted or did the right thing? What would you have done?