<human>: Over a year ago, my (now ex) gf and I went on a vacation out of country. We had a great time, but when it came time to return to the states, in early August, we had travel issues. 

Before leaving, her and my friends decided that using buddy passes was the best option. It was considerably cheaper. I flew on my father's family pass. Getting there was no problem. However, the flights back only allowed for my ticket priority to fly. So, I left and awaited my ex and three friends in the states. 

She was a horrible wreck for my friends to have to deal with. She continually cried because she was worried about not making it back to school on time. School was over a week away. 

Everyone ended up purchasing full tickets. The two of my friends, who were helping my ex (Mike and Alan), decided to buy tickets through Iceland. They were ~$1000. Because my ex couldn't stomach waiting another day, she decided to buy one ticket through Paris at a little over $2000. 

Unfortunately, her credit card did not work. So, Mike (being the great guy that he is) bought it for her and they all went on their way. About a week after arriving home, a week and two days since my return, I agreed to pay Mike with the stipulation that she pay me back. I told her it did not have to be soon (damning words). I paid him, in check, shortly after. 

Three months later, we "amicably" ended our 7 seven year relationship. Up until a few months ago, I kept in fairly good contact with her. I mentioned twice, in the last year, that I really need the money for my Masters year and that I hoped she could send me her excess scholarship money. She agreed and said she could send some of it, but never did. 

I'm unsure of where to go from here. I was close to some of her family and still go to lunch with her younger cousin infrequently. I don't want to turn this into a legal battle and I really need the money in the coming year. 

I'm not sure if I even have any legal ground here or how to handle the situation.

Condense the text into a few key points
<bot>: Ex owes me $2000 for her plane ticket which my buddy purchased and I reimbursed him for. Asked a few times in the last year, but have gotten no action.