It's understandable that you may feel frustrated or disappointed in this situation, as it's not fair for you to have to cover the expenses for everyone without prior agreement or understanding. However, whether or not you should ask for your money back depends on various factors, including your relationship with your friends, the circumstances surrounding the situation, and your personal values.
Here are a few things to consider before deciding:
Assess the situation: Reflect on whether your friends genuinely couldn't afford to pay for their meals or if they simply didn't plan ahead. If they were genuinely in a tough financial situation, it might be more difficult for them to reimburse you immediately.
Communication: Have an open and honest conversation with your friends about the situation. Express how you felt about having to pay for everyone and let them know your concerns. It's possible that they didn't realize the impact of their actions and may be willing to make it right.
Your financial situation: Consider your own financial position and whether you can comfortably let go of the money or if you need it back to cover your expenses.
Friendship dynamics: Think about your relationship with your friends and how asking for the money might affect it. In some cases, it could lead to tension and discomfort, while in others, friends might understand and be willing to repay you.
Future plans: If you believe that this could happen again in the future, it's essential to set clear expectations or avoid similar situations altogether.
Ultimately, the decision is up to you. If you choose to ask for your money back, try to approach the conversation with understanding and empathy, considering that your friends might not have intentionally put you in this situation. On the other hand, if you decide not to ask for the money, try to use the experience as an opportunity to set boundaries and communicate expectations more clearly for future outings.