Hey love, just wanted to give you the whole scoop about Auntie Vickys big birthday bash, because it turned out to be a proper turning point.
Victoria Parker was nervously smoothing the trembling napkin under the flower vase, glancing at the clock for the last time. Less than an hour left until the guests arrived, and she still couldnt settle down. A 60th birthday is a big deal, and she wanted everything to be flawless.
Lucy, you coming? she shouted toward the kitchen where the clatter of dishes could be heard.
Yes, Mum, just finishing the salads! her daughter called back. Could you check on Frank? He said hed pop out for some sparkling water.
Victoria let out a sigh and headed to her soninlaws room. After ten years of sharing a roof, she still couldnt get used to his laidback pace. Everything for him was in a minute or right now. As usual, Frank sat at his laptop, eyes glued to the screen.
Frank, youre supposed to be heading to the shop, Vicky said, trying to keep her voice gentle, though a hint of irritation slipped through.
Yeah, yeah, Mum, Im just about to go, he replied without even looking up, still clicking the mouse.
The guests will be here any moment now.
Dont worry, Ill be back in time.
She walked out of the room clenching her teeth. The same old song. If it werent for Lucy, shed have waved Frank out the door ages ago. Ten years together and nothing changes always promising to save up for their own place, but theres never any end in sight. At least they have little Poppy, their 12yearold granddaughter, whos the only bright spot.
Gran, is the cake coming? Poppy asked, as if she could read her thoughts.
Yes, sweetie, your dads supposed to pick it up from the bakery.
Poppy frowned. Will he remember? Yesterday he missed my swimming practice even though he said hed give me a lift.
Victoria patted her gently. Dont worry, Ill remind him. Now go put on that pretty dress we bought last week.
When Poppy darted off, Vicky turned back to Frank. Dont forget the cake. I ordered it from The Sweet Spot on Oxford Street.
Ive got it, Mum, he waved off. First the water, then the cake. Itll be perfect.
Fifteen minutes later Frank finally shut his laptop, threw on his jacket, and headed for the door.
Frank, did you grab the money for the cake? Vicky called.
What? Isnt it already paid? he stopped in the doorway.
No, I only put down a deposit. The rest is due when you collect it.
Lucy popped out of the kitchen, towel in hand. Mum, my cards on the table, grab it, please. Franks a bit short on cash again, she said with an apologetic smile.
Franks finances were always tight, but Vicky kept quiet. She didnt want to start the party on a sour note. She pulled the right amount from her purse and handed it over.
Just dont be late, she reminded him. And remember the sparkling water!
When his door shut, Vicky returned to setting the table. Everything had to be spoton. Not only family would be there, but also former workmates. Shed spent thirtyfive years teaching English and literature, and even five years into retirement she still wanted to go out with a bang.
Dont stress, Mum, Lucy hugged her. Everything will be fine.
Im not stressed, Vicky replied, a little fib. Just want it to be proper.
Lucy nodded, It will, Mum. Youre the best host.
The doorbell rang. First to arrive were Vickys brother Nigel and his wife Sarah.
Vicky, happy birthday! Sarah kissed her cheeks and handed over a big gift bag. You look wonderful! Sixty is the new forty!
Thank you, dears, Vicky said, touched. Come on in, make yourselves at home.
Soon more guests filtered in two old school colleagues, neighbour Mrs. Iris with her husband, a cousin from the outskirts. The flat buzzed with chatter, laughter, and congratulations. Only Frank was still missing.
Lucy, could you call him? Vicky whispered as the guests settled around the table. Hes taking forever.
Lucy stepped away with her phone, then returned with a strained smile. Hes on his way, Mum. Said the shop was jammed.
Vicky just shook her head. Shed heard that excuse a hundred times. Probably stuck with mates or glued to his phone.
Well, lets not wait any longer, she said brightly. Lets dig in!
Everyone tumbled into the feast. Vickys cooking was topnotch there was classic Olivier salad, jellied fish, Frenchstyle meat, her own pickled mushrooms, stuffed peppers the lot.
Time ticked by and Frank still hadnt shown. Lucy kept slipping out to call him, each time returning more flustered. Vicky could see her daughters worry and tried to keep the conversation flowing.
Remember that trip to Brighton we took? Sarah laughed. Back when the union sponsored us?
Ah, thats when you flirted with the swimming instructor! Lucy teased.
Shut up! Sarah giggled. Nigels still jealous!
The room erupted in laughter, and Vicky briefly forgot her nerves. Then a knock sounded at the hallway.
Finally! Lucy shouted, rushing to open the door.
She came back pale, alone.
Mum, can I have a minute?
Vicky excused herself from the guests and stepped into the hallway. A stranger stood there with a large box.
Hello, Im from The Sweet Spot. Did you order a cake?
Yes, Vicky replied, bewildered. Didnt Frank pick it up?
No, were closing soon and the order wasnt collected. I thought Id deliver it myself since I have the address. Its a celebration after all.
A lump rose in Vickys throat. Where was Frank? What had happened to him?
Thank you so much, she said, pulling out her wallet. How much do I owe?
After settling with the courier and placing the cake on the kitchen counter, Vicky turned to Lucy.
Wheres your husband?
I dont know, Mum, Lucys eyes welled up. His phones been dead for half an hour.
Vicky took a breath. Go back to the guests, Ill sort the cake.
When Lucy walked away, Vicky sank onto a stool, the weight of ten years of Franks empty promises crushing her. Shed kept quiet for Lucy and Poppy, but today shed had enough.
She lifted the beautiful sponge cake, adorned with cream roses and the words Happy Birthday! and set it on a large platter. At that moment, Poppy peeked into the kitchen.
Gran, wheres dad?
I dont know, love, Vicky answered honestly. But look at this gorgeous cake!
Poppys eyes lit up. Can I carry it to the living room?
Sure, just be careful.
Poppy took the platter, stuck out her tongue in concentration, and waddled the cake into the dining room. Vicky followed, ready to catch it if needed. The little girl managed perfectly the cake arrived on the table amid gasps of delight.
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. In staggered, slightly reeking steps, Frank burst in, looking like hed been out all night.
Here I am! he declared cheerfully. Happy birthday, everyone!
An awkward silence fell. Vicky felt a chill as she saw the hurt in Lucys eyes.
Frank, Lucy murmured, 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 made it happen.
The cake was delivered by the bakery, Vicky said coldly. Because you didnt pick it up.
Oh, whatever, Frank plopped onto an empty chair. Im here now, pour the drinks!
The guests exchanged uneasy glances. The festive mood was wrecked. Someone coughed politely, Sarah began gathering her bag, clearly ready to leave.
Thanks for coming, everyone! Vicky said suddenly, standing from the table. I really appreciate you being here on my day, and I have an announcement.
Everyone fell quiet, even Frank stopped reaching for the bottle.
For ten years my daughter and soninlaw have lived in my flat, Ive never interfered in their marriage, Vicky began, each word heavy. Ive endured disrespect, unreliability, and laziness, all for Lucy and Poppy. But today is my birthday, and Im giving myself a gift.
She turned to Frank. Konstantin, from tomorrow youre no longer welcome here. You have 24 hours to pack up and find somewhere else.
What? You cant
I can, Vicky said calmly. This is my home, and I decide who lives here.
Lucy stared at her mother, eyes downcast. Her fingers, still gripping the napkin, were white with tension.
Mum, are you sure? she asked softly.
Absolutely, Vicky nodded. Ive made up my mind.
Frank exploded, slamming his fist on the table, making the cutlery clatter. Fine! Ill leave, my feet wont be on this floor any longer!
He stormed out, the door slamming behind him. A crash sounded from the hallway, then silence.
Little Poppy broke it. Can I have a piece of cake now?
Everyone laughed nervously, the tension easing a bit. Vicky began slicing the cake, trying to hide the tremor in her hands. She didnt know if shed done the right thing, but she felt there was no other way. That cake really did put an end to things with her soninlaw.
Guests gradually drifted out, understanding the celebration was over. Soon only Vicky, Lucy, and Poppy remained.
Mum, Lucy said, sitting down with her mother, I have to tell you something
Dont bother, love. I get it.
No, you dont, Lucy snapped, shaking her head. Ive wanted a divorce for ages, but I was scared youd oppose it. You told me to endure, that I chose this for the child
Vicky pulled Lucy into a hug. Silly girl, I see your pain. Poppy sees it too. She needs a happy mum, not a pretend family.
But what now? Lucy whispered, hugging her mother like a child.
Everything will be fine, Vicky said firmly. Well manage. Together.
By evening Frank returned, sober and quiet, packing his things and glancing pleadingly at Lucy. She stayed firm. 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 terms, Lucy replied coolly. Just go, Kostya. Just go.
When he finally shut the door, Vicky embraced Lucys shoulders. You know, Ive been saving a bit. Its not much, but it could be a downpayment for your own flat with Poppy. Youre now a department head, the bank will back you.
Lucy stared, eyes wide. Are you serious? I thought wed keep living together
Well stay until you have a place, Vicky smiled. Then Ill drop by for tea with Poppy whenever you need. Maybe even bring a few more guests.
Mom!
Yes, at thirtyfive you can still have a little brother or sister for Poppy. Just pick a good husband this time.
Lucy laughed through tears. Youre impossible!
I just want you both happy, Vicky said, sincere. And you know what? This birthday turned out better than I imagined because its the start of a new life.
They stood in the kitchen, hugging, while the sun set over the garden the last sunset of the old chapter. On the table sat the untouched birthday cake, a quiet witness to the change.
Six months later Lucy, Poppy, and Vicky moved into a cosy twobed flat in a new development. Vicky visited often, helping with little repairs and décor tips. A year after that, a new neighbour, Simon Carter, a physics teacher from Vickys former school, knocked on her door with a bunch of daisies and theatre tickets.
Folks say you love Chekhov, he said shyly. Theres a The Cherry Orchard at the drama theatre this week
Vicky smiled, ushered him in, and said, Come in, Simon. I was just about to have tea with a slice of cake. Join us?
