Family vacations should bring you closer together, right? At least that’s what I’ve always believed.

But this time, what began as a treasured family tradition turned into the worst experience of my life.

My job keeps me so busy that I sometimes return home after dinner has been served and the lights have been turned down.

My husband, Mark, used to have a solid career, but that all changed when he was let off a few years ago.

Honestly, I didn’t mind.

But recently, I’d noticed the fissures.

But I didn’t think much about it. I assumed we’d reconnect during our annual trip.

Our annual vacation is a custom we’ve carried on over the years.

This year, I wanted to make the vacation especially special. Especially because Mark had recently struggled to find a solid job.

Our son, Eric, is 20 and attending college. When I called to tell him about our vacation plans, he seemed really excited.

A day later, however, Eric returned my call with a request.

“Mom, would it be okay if I brought my girlfriend along?”

What about his girlfriend? That was news to me.

“Uh, I guess so,” I said hesitantly. “What’s her name?”

“Jessica,” he said. “She’s great. You’ll love her.”

“Alright,” I said finally. “She’s welcome to join us.”

As the trip neared, I jumped right into planning. I wanted everything to be flawless.

Jessica met us at the airport, looking like she’d just stepped out of a magazine. Her stylish dress, perfectly styled hair, and beautiful smile instantly drew everyone’s attention, including Mark.

He seemed particularly taken with her, dragging her suitcase and even complimenting her choice of shoes. I dismissed it as a courtesy.

Jessica was friendly at first, but gradually, small details began to feel strange.

“Jessica, have you had a chance to see Eric play basketball yet?” I asked.

Her eyes widened, and she hesitated before replying, “Basketball? We’ve never talked about that.”

Eric had been passionate about basketball for many years. His social media feed was full of team images and game highlights. How could his girlfriend of three months have been unaware of this?

The next day, Eric proposed that we all try jet skiing. His expression brightened as he emphasized how much fun it would be, but Jessica grimaced.

“I’m not really into water sports,” she said.

Later, when everyone rested by the pool, I overheard Jessica inquire about Eric’s major.

“Biology, right?” she said with a giggle. “I can’t believe I keep forgetting that!”

This young woman who claimed to be my son’s girlfriend had no idea about his love of basketball, did not know his major, and didn’t appear very interested in learning.

Midway through the vacation, while looking for sunscreen in Eric’s suitcase, I came across a small velvet box. Curious, I opened it and discovered a magnificent diamond necklace.

It appeared SUPER EXPENSIVE, and I couldn’t believe my son had purchased something so lovely for his girlfriend.

Later that evening, I mentioned it lightly.

He glanced at me wide-eyed, as if I had uttered something inappropriate.

On our final morning, the motel was silent. Mark was eating breakfast downstairs, while Eric and Jessica were sunbathing by the pool.

Eric’s phone, which had been charging on the counter, alerted him with a notice.

It was a text. I gave it a casual glance, but when I read it, my eyes opened.

It read, +$500 to our deal. Thanks for covering up for me with the necklace.

Who sent it? Mark. My husband.

Mark and Eric had been planning for weeks, and Jessica was not Eric’s girlfriend. She was Mark’s mistress.

I was angry. I was heartbroken.

But I knew I could not let this go.

Jessica’s eyes brightened, but her grin faded as she noticed I was wearing her necklace.

“Mom, why are you wearing Jessica’s necklace?” Eric asked. “That’s her gift.”

“Oh, really?” I chuckled. “That’s odd. Because your dad bought it with MY MONEY.”

“Let me finish. You see, I’ve been paying for everything ever since he lost his job. Everything including this trip, the necklace, and even the money he promised Eric to play along with this charade.”

The following day, I flew home alone. Eric and Mark repeatedly called me, but I refused to respond.

One week later, I filed for divorce. Jessica disappeared when she discovered Mark didn’t have any money, leaving him humiliated and alone.

Eric and I are striving to restore our relationship. He made a mistake, but he’s still my kid, and I hope he doesn’t do this again.