The next evening, we went to a fancy waterfront restaurant. When the waiter asked for drinks, my father-in-law ordered Eric a glass of milk “since he clearly can’t handle being an adult.” Everyone laughed — except Eric, who looked mortified.

Two days later, my father-in-law quietly told me he’d created a trust fund for the twins and me, and that Eric’s inheritance would shrink until he proved he could prioritize family. Suddenly, Eric became overly helpful, offering to carry every bag and car seat on the way home.

At the airport, the agent handed Eric his boarding pass and smiled. “You’ve been upgraded again, sir.” His face turned pale. The ticket sleeve had a note in bold handwriting: “Business class again. Enjoy. But this one’s one-way. You’ll explain it to your wife.” His dad had booked Eric a solo stay at a hotel so he could “reflect.” I laughed so hard I nearly cried. As I walked toward economy with the twins, Eric trailed behind and whispered, “Any chance I can earn my way back to economy?”