Can anyone help me get out of this dinner?

[saltpath]

Can anyone help me find a way to get out of a group dinner at a restaurant this weekend?

Context is, they are DH's friends but I socialise with them too sometimes. DH has just been called into work all weekend so can no longer go. I'm not keen on going by myself because one woman in the group (wife of DH friend) is a bit toxic. I always have to manage myself around her because she has narcissistic traits and the whole evening can become about her or about her undermining others (me). It's normally ok to see this group occasionally with DH there because he knows what she's like and we can support each other and get through it together for the sake of him seeing his friends. But as he's now not going, I really don't want to go by myself and I'm too tired to deal with her tbh.

The rest of the group are very nice and kind and will no doubt say I'm very welcome, they hope to see me etc, so what polite and plausible excuse can I offer to get out of this one, without sounding like I'm just bowing out due to DH? I expect the woman will comment about DH and I being joined at the hip, but there's not much I can do about that.

Hoping you can help me here! Thank you x

"Sorry DH has been called into work and I was already double booked so we can no longer make it"

Get’s reply is good but make sure it is your DH who cancels so that no one can make any comment back to you.

I'd just say "I can't make it any more either I'm afraid" and leave it at that.

Otherwise blame it on illness - migraine or similar. They'll know you're lying but social niceties mean they can't argue with you.

they're your DH’s friends, why’d you even have to have a reason not to go?

Just say you’ll both see them next time.

"Sorry, I have explosive diarrhoea, and cannot leave the toilet without sharting at random".

DH has cancelled and said "we" but narc has already emailed saying looking forward to seeing you Salt!

@Bouffalant definitely won't be saying that!

If he's already said you're both not going just ignore her!!
Don't give her so much power!
If it's your husbands work thing why on earth would you go without him?!

Just email her back like "DH has been called into work so we will arrange for another meal soon and we can all have a good catch up then! Have a good night!" And leave it at that. I wouldn't go either btw! X

I think your DH should be replying for both of you. Failing that, @rhos response is good.

DH has cancelled and said "we" but narc has already emailed saying looking forward to seeing you Salt!

'Salt won't be coming, hence saying 'we'.'