Here are the facts:

Booked R/T 3 class transcon on 6/2. Travel was middle of June (booking date and date of travel all within a 21 day period). Discount economy class.

On 6/9, EF showed C availability, so I called AA and requested upgrade. 15,000 miles were taken from my account and my card was charged $75. No availability for return leg, so I added my name to wait list.

On 6/18, checked the app, and noticed I was now assigned a First class seat, but said "ticket pending". Phoned AA and agent was able to get it resolved. Needed expiration date and 3 digit code from credit card.

I then received an email from AA with updated itinerary and my receipt. This time, the 15,000 miles were taken from my account. I also noticed there was the $75 upgrade fee and an additional $75 "expedited" fee.

I reached out to AA via Twitter and they say the expedited fee is because it's within 21 days. I thought this was only for award travel? I was not charged the fee for the first leg of the trip.

Also, how did I bypass business class and get a first class seat with a miles plus cash upgrade?

Am I due a refund of $75?