Tricky situation

[Blondewithredlips]

My Ex-H and I have grown up children. I have not seen or been in contact with him for years.
Unfortunately I will see him at an important celebration for one of the children. I booked a restaurant for myself and children and said I would pay as a treat.
It looks like he will be coming along too. He has form for being mean with money and contributed very little financially to the children.
How do I make sure he pays for his own meal and drinks without making things awkward. Don't care about his feelings...

I don't know. Talk to the child.

Pull the server aside before ordering and tell him/her there will be two separate checks - one for you and the children and one for him. That way it won’t be awkward when the check comes and you then try to figure how his portion and brace for his response.

@Blondewithredlips I wouldn't ask him beforehand about paying 50/50, just that there will be seperate bills. From what you've said, he'd agree half and then worm out of it. Easier, surely, to leave absolutely no wiggle room for him.

Take him to one side and ask him to pay half of everything. If he refuses say, that is fine, smile and say then pay for your own. When the bill arrives do not pay for his, direct the waiter or waitress towards him.

@Blondewithredlips

WHAT HAPPENED?????

😂

I would say at the beginning to that waiter that the bill will be split. You are paying for yourself and your children as agreed and he is covering his own cheque. No potential drama about him not having enough money for the contribution. If he offers 50/50 fine.