Im gonna tell you what happened at my mums 60th birthday, because it turned into a proper drama.
Valerie Thompson was fussing over the napkin under the flower vase, her hands shaking a bit, and kept glancing at the clock. Less than an hour left till the guests arrived and she just couldnt settle down. A 60th birthday is a big deal, and she wanted everything to be spoton.
Emma, you coming soon? she shouted toward the kitchen, where plates were clinking.
Yeah, Mum, just finishing the salads! her daughter called back. Check on Kevin, hes supposed to pop out for some fizzy drinks.
Valerie sighed and headed to the livingroom where her soninlaw was glued to his laptop. After ten years under the same roof she still couldnt get used to his laidback pace. Everything for him was later or on my way. Right now Kevin was scrolling away, totally absorbed.
Kevin, you were off to the shop, right? Valerie tried to sound sweet, but a hint of irritation slipped through.
Yeah, yeah, Mum, Im heading out now, he said without looking up, still clicking his mouse.
The guests will be here any minute.
Ill be quick, dont worry.
She left the room, teeth clenched. Same old story. If it werent for Emma, shed have already shown Kevin the door. Ten years together and nothings changed he keeps promising to save for his own place, but theres no end in sight. At least theyve got a granddaughter, Lucy, whos been the only bright spot for Valerie.
Grandma, is the cake coming? Lucy asked as she popped out of the hallway, twelve years old and already full of questions.
It will be, love. Your dad is supposed to pick it up from the bakery.
Lucy frowned. What if he forgets? He missed my swim lesson yesterday, even though he promised to take me.
Valerie patted her head. Dont worry, Ill remind him. Now go put on that pretty dress we bought last week.
When Lucy disappeared, Valerie went back to Kevin.
Dont forget the cake. I ordered it from The Sweet Spot on High Street.
I remember, I remember, he waved her off. First the fizzy drinks, then the cake. Itll be perfect.
Fifteen minutes later Kevin finally shut his laptop, threw on his jacket and headed for the door.
Kevin, did you get the money for the cake? Valerie called after him.
Isnt it already paid? he stopped in the doorway.
No, I only put down a deposit. The rest is due on collection.
Emma popped out of the kitchen, towel in hand. Mum, I left my card on the table, you can grab it. Kevins always short on cash. She gave a sheepish smile.
Kevins money troubles were a constant, but Valerie kept quiet. She didnt want to start the party on a sour note. She pulled the right amount of cash from her purse and handed it to him.
Just dont be late, and dont forget the fizzy drinks! she said.
When Kevin left, she turned back to setting the table. Everything had to be perfect not just family, but also former colleagues were coming. Shed spent thirtyfive years teaching English and literature, retired five years ago, and still wanted to make a good impression.
Dont stress, Mum, Emma said, hugging her. Itll be fine.
Of course Im not stressed, Valerie replied, though she admitted she wanted everything to be proper.
Emma nodded, Youre the best host, Mum.
The doorbell rang. First to arrive were Valeries brother Neil and his wife Tara.
Val, happy birthday! Tara planted kisses on both cheeks and handed over a big gift bag. You look fabulous! Sixty is the new forty!
Thanks, love, Valerie said, touched. Come in, make yourselves at home.
Soon more guests filtered in two old teaching mates, neighbour Irene and her husband, a cousin from the suburbs. The flat filled with chatter, laughter, and congratulations. Only Kevin was still missing.
Emma, give Kevin a ring, Valerie whispered as the guests settled around the table. Hes dragging his feet.
Emma slipped away with her phone, returned with a strained smile. Hes on his way, Mum. Said there was a queue at the shop.
Valerie just shook her head. Shed heard that excuse a hundred times. Probably stuck somewhere with friends or glued to his phone.
Alright then, lets get on with the lunch! she said, trying to sound upbeat.
Everyone dug in. Valeries spread was impressive her version of a classic Olivier, a jellied fish dish, Frenchstyle meat, her own pickled mushrooms, stuffed peppers you name it, it was on the table.
Time ticked by, and Kevin still hadnt shown up. Emma kept stepping out to call him, each return looking more tense. Valerie tried to keep the conversation flowing.
Remember that trip we took to Brighton, Val? Tara laughed. Back when the union sent us on those holidays?
How could I forget! You and that swimming instructor
Stop it, Tara! she giggled, teasing her husband. Neils still jealous!
They all roared with laughter, and for a moment Valerie forgot her worries. Then a knock at the hall door cut through the merriment.
Finally! Emma cried, hurrying to answer.
She came back, face pale. Mum, can I have a word?
Valerie excused herself and stepped into the hallway. A stranger in a courier uniform stood there with a large box.
Good evening, Im from The Sweet Spot. Did you order a cake?
Yes, Valerie said, bewildered. Hasnt Kevin collected it?
No, were about to close and the order wasnt picked up. I thought Id bring it over since I have the address.
A lump rose in Valeries throat. Where was Kevin?
Thank you so much, she said, pulling out her wallet. How much do I owe?
After paying the courier and setting the cake on the kitchen counter, Valerie turned to Emma.
Emma, wheres your husband?
I dont know, Mum. His phones been silent for half an hour.
Valerie took a breath. Go chat with the guests, Ill sort the cake.
When Emma walked away, Valerie sank onto a stool. Ten years of Kevins empty promises and halfhearted apologies had finally hit a breaking point. With a shaking hand she lifted the beautiful sponge cake layers of vanilla sponge with creamfilled roses and a simple Happy Birthday! written across the top and placed it on a serving tray. Just then Lucy popped back in.
Mum, wheres Daddy?
Dont know, love, Valerie said honestly. But look at this cake!
Lucys eyes lit up. Can I take it to the dining room?
Sure, just be careful.
Lucy hoisted the tray and, tongue sticking out in concentration, waddled the cake into the living room. Valerie followed, ready to catch it if needed, but Lucy managed perfectly the cake arrived on the table to a chorus of impressed gasps.
Now, dear Valerie, announced Mr. Patel, the neighbours husband, raising his glass, let me toast you on this wonderful milestone
A sudden bang from the front door made everyone jump. Kevin stumbled in, reeking of whisky.
Here I am! he declared cheerfully. Happy celebrations, everyone!
Awkward silence fell. Valerie felt a chill as she saw the hurt in Emmas eyes.
Kevin, Emma whispered, where have you been?
Whats the big deal? he shrugged, making his way to the table. Met a mate, had a few drinks and look, the cakes already here! See? I got it sorted!
The cake was delivered by the bakery, Valerie said coldly. Because you didnt pick it up.
Whatever, Kevin slumped into an empty chair. Im here now, pour the drinks!
Guests exchanged nervous looks. The festive vibe was gone. Tara started gathering her bag, clearly ready to leave.
Thanks for coming, everyone! Valerie suddenly announced, standing up. I really appreciate you all being here. I have something to say.
All eyes turned to her, even Kevin froze midpour.
For ten years Ive let my daughter and soninlaw live in my flat without meddling in their lives, she began, each word feeling heavier than the last. Ive tolerated disrespect, laziness, and broken promises all for Emma and Lucy. But today is my birthday, and Im giving myself a gift.
She faced Kevin.
Kevin, from tomorrow youre no longer welcome here. You have 24 hours to collect your stuff and find somewhere else.
What? You cant he stammered.
I can, Valerie replied calmly. This is my home, and I decide who stays.
Emma turned to her husband, pleading. Say something, love!
She lowered her gaze, fingers whiteknuckled around the napkin.
Mum, are you sure?
Absolutely, Valerie said, nodding. Ive made up my mind.
Fine, you all can go to hell! Kevin shouted, slamming his fist on the table, making the cutlery clatter. Ill be out of here, and youll never see my feet again!
He bolted for the door, knocking over a chair as he went. The front door slammed shut, and the flat fell into a sudden quiet, broken only by Lucys tiny voice.
Can I have a piece of cake now?
Everyone laughed nervously, the tension easing a bit. Valerie sliced the cake, trying to hide the tremor in her hands. She didnt know if shed done the right thing, but she felt shed had no other choice. That cake really did put an end to the whole saga with Kevin.
Guests gradually drifted out, understanding the party was over. Soon the flat was left with just Valerie, Emma, and Lucy.
Mum, Emma said softly, I need to tell you something
Dont bother, love. I get it.
No, you dont, Emma shook her head. Ive wanted a divorce for ages but was scared youd disapprove. What do you think should I stay for the kids?
Valerie pulled her into a hug. Silly girl, I see how youre hurting. Lucy sees it too. She needs a happy mum, not a pretend family.
What now? Emma whispered, leaning into her mother.
Everything will be fine, Valerie assured. Well get through this together.
By evening Kevin returned, sober and quiet, packing his belongings while glancing helplessly at Emma. She was resolute. Ten years of empty promises had hardened her heart.
Maybe you could at least give me the TV back? he muttered, zipping up his bag. I bought it.
On my dime, Emma said flatly. Just go, Kevin.
When the door finally closed, Valerie embraced Emma again.
You know, Ive got some savings, she said. Not a lot, but enough for a downpayment on a flat for you and Lucy. The rest you could get on a mortgage youre a senior manager now, the bank will back you.
Emmas eyes widened. Youre serious? I thought wed keep living together forever
Well stay until youre settled, Valerie smiled. Then Ill pop over for tea with Lucy whenever you need.
Mom! Emma exclaimed.
Thirtyfive isnt too late to have another little one if you want, Valerie teased. Just pick a good husband this time.
Emma laughed through tears. Youre impossible!
I just want you happy, Valerie said earnestly. And you know what? This birthday turned out better than I imagined. Its the start of a new chapter.
They stood in the kitchen, hugging, while the sunset painted the sky outside. On the table, the untouched cake with its cream roses and Happy Birthday! inscription stared back like a quiet witness to everything that had changed.
Six months later Emma and Lucy moved into a cosy twobedroom flat in a new development. Valerie visited often, helping with little repairs and offering advice. A year after that, a new physics teacher, Sergei Evans, knocked on Valeries door, holding a bunch of daisies and theatre tickets.
Folks say you love Chekhov, he said shyly. Ive got tickets to The Cherry Orchard at the local playhouse.
Valerie smiled, inviting him in. Come on in, Sergei. I was just about to have a cuppa with a slice of cake. Join us?
