Originally Posted by
noneever 
It's my closest friend's 40th today and a group of us are going out for dinner tonight. I'm freaking out for a couple of reasons.
The restaurant we're attending is very expensive- food alone is going to cost me $180. Plus driving for an hour each way and paying for parking and whatever I drink. I literally have $160 in my wallet until Monday. So I'll have to borrow money to go. Not going is not an option- we're best friends and it'd be really poor form if I pulled out.
Secondly, the other people going all drink alcohol. Quite heavily. I WILL be the only one not drinking and I'm scared I'll give in and join them. There will be before and after drinks. I plan to leave straight after dinner.
Help!
if it were me I wouldn't go. Obviously speak to friend personally beforehand telling them your situation and give them the option of taking them out to dinner or an alternative present of their choice.