Victoria Parker straightened the trembling napkin beneath the vase of lilies and glanced at the clock once more. Less than an hour remained until the guests arrived, and she still couldnt settle her nerves. Her 60th birthday was a milestone, and she wanted everything to be flawless.
Emily, are you almost done? she called toward the kitchen, where the clatter of dishes echoed.
Yes, Mum, just finishing the salads! her daughter replied. Youd better check on Kevin; he said hed pop out for some sparkling water.
Victoria sighed and walked toward the livingroom where her soninlaw was stationed. After ten years under the same roof, she still hadnt adjusted to his leisurely pace. Everything was in a minute and almost there. At that moment Kevin sat at the computer, absorbed in whatever was on the screen.
Kevin, you were supposed to go to the shop, Victoria said, trying to keep her tone gentle, though irritation slipped through.
Right, right, Im on my way, he muttered without looking up, clicking the mouse.
The guests will be here any minute now.
Ill be back, dont worry.
She left the room grinding her teeth. The same old pattern. If it werent for Emily, she might have already told Kevin to leave the flat. Ten years together and still no sign of him ever saving enough for his own place. At least they had a granddaughter Lily the bright spot in Victorias life.
Grandma, is the cake coming? Lily asked as she appeared in the hallway, as if she could read her thoughts.
It will be, love. Your dad is supposed to pick it up from the bakery.
Lily frowned. Will he remember? Yesterday he missed my swimming lesson even though he promised to drive me.
Victoria patted Lilys head. Dont worry, Ill remind him. Now go put on that lovely dress we bought last week.
When Lily disappeared, Victoria went back to Kevin. Dont forget the cake. I ordered it from Sweet Corner on High Street.
I remember, Ill grab the water first, then the cake. Itll be perfect.
Fifteen minutes later Kevin finally rose from his desk, slipped on his coat, and headed for the door.
Kevin, have you taken the money for the cake? Victoria called.
Its not paid for yet? he stopped in the doorway.
No, I only placed a deposit. The balance is due on collection.
Emily peeked out of the kitchen clutching a towel. Mum, my cards on the table. Grab it, please. Kevins always tight on cash. She gave a sheepish smile.
Kevins finances were always a mess, but Victoria kept quiet. She didnt want to start the celebration with a quarrel. She took the required amount from her purse and handed it to him.
Dont be late, she urged. And dont forget the sparkling water!
When Kevin left, Victoria returned to setting the table. Everything had to be immaculate. Not only relatives but also former colleagues would be there. She had spent thirtyfive years teaching English literature, retired five years ago, and still commanded respect. She wanted to end her career on a high note.
Dont worry, Mum, Emily said, hugging her. Itll go wonderfully.
Im not worried, just hoping itll be proper, Victoria replied, masking her anxiety.
Emily nodded. Youll be the best hostess.
The doorbell rang. First to arrive were Victorias brother James and his wife Rachel.
Happy birthday, Vicky! Rachel kissed her cheeks and handed over a large gift bag. You look radiant! Sixty is the new forty!
Thank you, dears, Victoria said, touched. Come in, make yourselves at home.
Soon the flat buzzed with laughter, congratulations, and clinking glasses. Yet Kevin still hadnt returned.
Emily, give Kevin a ring, Victoria whispered as the guests settled. Hes dragging his feet.
Emily slipped away, returned with a strained smile. Hes on his way, Mum. He said the shop was busy.
Victoria merely shook her head. She knew those busy excuses wellmost likely he was stuck with friends or glued to his phone.
Alright then, lets start the feast, she announced brightly.
The feast was a triumph. Victorias cooking was superb: classic ploughmans lunch, jellied fish, Frenchstyle roast, her own pickled mushrooms, stuffed peppersyou name it, it was on the table.
Time ticked by, and Kevin was still missing. Emily kept stepping out to call him, returning each time more tense. Victoria tried to steer conversation away from her worries.
Remember the holiday we took to Brighton? Rachel recalled cheerfully. Those union trips with the teachers?
Of course! You almost ended up with that swimming instructor, didnt you? Emily teased.
Shh, stop it! Rachel laughed. James is still jealous!
The room erupted in laughter, and for a moment Victoria forgot her anxieties. Then a knock sounded at the entrance.
Finally! Emily exclaimed, rushing to answer.
She emerged alone, face pale. Mum, can I have a minute?
Victoria excused herself and stepped into the hall, where a courier from Sweet Corner stood with a large box.
Good afternoon, Im the baker. Did you order a cake?
Yes, Victoria replied, bewildered. Hasnt Kevin collected it?
No, the shop is closing and the cake is still here. I thought Id deliver it myself since I have the address.
A knot tightened in Victorias throat. Where was Kevin? What had happened to him?
How much do I owe you? she asked, pulling out her wallet.
After paying, she placed the cake on the kitchen counter and turned to Emily.
Wheres your husband? she asked.
I dont know, Mum, Emily said, tears brimming. His phones been dead for half an hour.
Victoria swallowed. Alright, go back to the guests. Ill finish with the cake.
When Emily left, Victoria sank onto a stool, feeling the weight of a decade of Kevins broken promises. She had endured his unreliability for Lilys sake, but today he had crossed the line.
She opened the box, revealing a beautiful sponge cake adorned with cream roses and the words Happy Birthday! She lifted it onto a serving plate just as Lily peeked in.
Grandma, wheres Daddy? Lily asked.
Im not sure, sweetheart, but look how lovely the cake is!
Lilys eyes lit up. Can I carry it to the living room?
Of course, but be careful.
Lily took the plate, sticking out the tip of her tongue in concentration, and trotted into the dining room. Victoria followed, ready to catch the cake if needed. Lily managed perfectly; the cake arrived on the table to delighted applause.
Now, dear Victoria, the neighbours husband announced, raising his glass, let me toast you on this wonderful milestone
A loud bang from the front door interrupted him. Kevin staggered in, reeking of alcohol.
Here I am! he proclaimed cheerfully. Happy celebrations to all!
An uneasy silence fell. Victoria felt a chill as she saw the hurt in Emilys eyes.
Kevin, Emily whispered, where have you been?
Whats the big deal? he shrugged, heading to the table. Met a mate, had a few drinks and look, the cakes already here! See? I got it sorted!
The cake was brought from the bakery, Victoria said coldly. Because you didnt pick it up.
Never mind, Kevin slumped into a chair. Im here now! Pour me something!
The guests exchanged uneasy glances. The festive atmosphere was cracking. Someone coughed politely, Rachel began gathering her things.
Thanks everyone for coming! Victoria announced suddenly, standing from her seat. I really appreciate you sharing this day with me. I have an announcement to make.
All eyes turned, even Kevin froze.
For ten years I have let my daughter and soninlaw live in my flat without intervening in their marriage, she began, each word a struggle. I have endured disrespect, unreliability, and laziness, all for Emily and Lily. But today is my birthday, and Im giving myself a gift.
She faced Kevin. Kevin, from tomorrow you are no longer welcome here. You have 24 hours to collect your things and find somewhere else to live.
What? You cant do that! he snapped.
I can, Victoria replied calmly. This is my home, and I decide who lives in it.
Emily turned to her mother, eyes downcast. Are you sure?
Absolutely, Victoria affirmed. Ive made my decision.
Fine, go on then! Kevin slammed his fist on the table, rattling the cutlery. Ill be out of here in a jiffy. My feet wont be on this floor any longer!
He rose, nearly toppling his chair, and stumbled toward the door. A crash sounded in the hallway, then the front door slammed shut.
Silence settled until Lilys tiny voice broke it. Can I have the cake now?
Everyone laughed nervously, and the tension eased a little. Victoria cut the cake, trying to hide the tremor in her hands. She didnt know if she had done the right thing, but she felt she had no other choice. That cake truly marked the end of an era with her soninlaw.
Gradually the guests departed, understanding the celebration was over. Soon only Victoria, Emily, and Lily remained in the flat.
Mom, Emily began, sitting beside her, I wanted to tell you something
No need to say anything, love. I understand.
No, you dont, Emily shook her head. Ive wanted a divorce for ages but was scared youd object. I thought youd say I should stay for Lilys sake
Victoria pulled her close. Silly girl, I see how you suffer. Lily sees it too. She needs a happy mum, not a façade of family.
What now? Emily whispered, hugging her mother like a child again.
Itll be alright, Victoria said confidently. Well get through this together.
By evening Kevin returned, sober and quiet, packing his belongings while casting pleading glances at Emily. She remained unmoved. Ten years of empty promises had hardened her heart.
Could I have the TV back? he muttered, zipping his bag. I bought it.
On my account, Emily replied evenly. Just go, Kevin. Please go.
When the door finally closed, Victoria embraced Emilys shoulders. You know, I have some savings. Not much, but enough for a deposit on your own flat for you and Lily. The rest you could mortgageafter all, youre now a senior manager, the bank will approve.
Emilys eyes widened. Are you serious? I thought wed keep living together
Well stay together until you have your own place, Victoria smiled. Then Ill visit whenever you need me, maybe bring a cup of tea and a slice of cake.
Mom!
Youre still young enough to have another child if you wish, but choose a partner wisely.
Emily laughed through tears. Youre impossible!
I just want you both to be happy, Victoria said earnestly. And you know, this birthday turned out better than I expected because it sparked a new beginning.
They stood in the kitchen, hugging, while the sunset painted the sky outsidea final glow on the old life. On the table lay the untouched birthday cake, its cream roses bearing the words Happy Birthday!a cake that truly put a full stop on the past.
Six months later Emily and Lily moved into a cosy twobedroom flat in a new development. Victoria visited often, helping with small repairs and offering advice. A year after that, a former colleague, physics teacher Simon Clarke, appeared at Victorias door with a bunch of daisies and theatre tickets.
People say you love Shakespeare, he said shyly. Theres a production of The Tempest at the drama theatre this week
Victoria smiled and welcomed him in. Come in, Simon. I was just about to have tea with a slice of cake. Join us.
Through all the upheaval, Victoria learned that standing up for herself and her family could turn a cracked celebration into a fresh start. It taught her that sometimes a cake, however delayed, can mark the moment you finally choose to live for yourself and those you truly love.
