I want to make a suggestion, b/c you are acting as if you are a very "trained" H. Ignoring her persistent calls during the game is fine. However, don't make up some wimpy excuse to give her. And most of all......don't tell her you are sorry!
You could just as easily have said that you were busy watching the game and it was not the place or time to talk on the phone. If she started some irate brow-beating, then say, "I was simply returning your call, but I refuse to listen to you rant". And then just end it and don't respond to her for the rest of the night. In fact, don't respond until she texts an apology.
This way, you show strength and that you choose your actions. She doesn't get to tell you what to do. Don't let her manipulate you.
It is not about what you feel should work in your M. It is about doing the work that gets the right results. Do what works!
