Victoria Hart smooths the trembling napkin beneath the vase of flowers and glances at the clock again. Less than an hour remains before the guests arrive, and she still cant settle her nerves. Her 60th birthday is a milestone, and she wants everything to be perfect.
Emma, are you almost done? she calls toward the kitchen, where the clatter of dishes drifts out.
Yes, Mum, Im just finishing the salads! her daughter replies. Youd better check on Kevin; he said he was going to pick up some water.
Victoria sighs and heads to her soninlaws room. After ten years under the same roof she still cant get used to his relaxed pace. Everything for him is in a minute and Im on my way. Right now Kevin sits at his computer, absorbed in whatever is on the screen.
Kevin, you were supposed to go to the shop, Victoria says, trying to keep her tone gentle, but a hint of irritation slips through.
Yeah, yeah, Im leaving now, he answers without turning, his fingers still clicking the mouse.
The guests will be here any minute.
Ill be there, dont worry.
Leaving the room, Victoria clenches her teeth. The same old routine. If it werent for Emma, she might have told Kevin to step out the door long ago. Ten years together and nothing changes. He keeps promising to save for his own place, yet the promise never seems to end. At least they have a granddaughterLily, who is the only bright spot in Victorias life.
Grandma, is the cake coming? Lilys voice rings from the hallway, as if shed read her thoughts.
It will be, love. Your dad is supposed to collect it from the bakery.
Lily frowns. Will he remember? Yesterday he missed my swimming lesson even though he promised to drive me.
Victoria pats Lilys head affectionately. Dont worry, Ill remind him. Now go put on that lovely dress we bought last week.
When Lily disappears, Victoria returns to Kevin. Dont forget the cake. I ordered it from The Sweet Spot on High Street.
I remember, I remember, he waves off. First the water, then the cake. Itll be perfect.
Fifteen minutes later Kevin finally pulls himself away from the computer, throws on his jacket, and heads for the door.
Kevin, have you taken the money for the cake? Victoria asks.
Its not paid yet? he pauses at the doorway.
No, I only placed a deposit. The balance is due on collection.
Emma pops her head out of the kitchen, towel in hand. Mum, my cards on the tablegrab it, please. Kevins always short on cash, she says with a sheepish smile.
Kevins finances are always tight, but Victoria keeps quiet. She doesnt want the celebration to start with a fight. She pulls the exact amount from her purse and hands it to him.
Dont be late, she warns. And remember the water!
When Kevin shuts the door behind him, Victoria returns to setting the table. Everything must be flawless. Today shell host not only family but also former colleagues. She spent thirtyfive years teaching English and literature, earned their respect, and now, five years into retirement, she refuses to be taken for granted.
Dont worry, Mum, Emma says, hugging her shoulders. Everything will be fine.
Im not worried, Victoria lies. I just want it to be proper.
Emma nods understandingly. It will be, Mum. Youre the best hostess.
The doorbell rings. First to arrive are Victorias brother and his wifeNigel and Tamara.
Happy birthday, Vicky! Tamara kisses her on both cheeks and hands over a large gift bag. You look radiant! Sixty is the new forty!
Thank you, dear ones, Victoria replies, touched. Come in, make yourselves at home.
Soon more guests filter in: two former teachers, a neighbour, her husband, a cousin from the countryside. The flat fills with chatter, laughter, and congratulations. Yet Kevin is still missing.
Emma, call him, Victoria whispers to her daughter as the guests settle at the table. Hes taking forever.
Emma steps aside with her phone, returns with a forced smile. Hes on his way, Mum. Said there was a queue at the shop.
Victoria merely shakes her head. She knows those queues. Hes probably stuck with friends or glued to his phone.
Alright, lets get on with the feast, she says, brightening her voice. Dinner is served!
The guests dive into the spread. Victorias cooking is superb; the table overflows with classics: her signature egg salad, jellied fish, Frenchstyle roast, homepickled mushrooms, stuffed pepperscountless dishes.
Time passes and Kevin still hasnt appeared. Emma has gone out a few times to call him, each time returning more anxious. Victoria watches her daughters worry and tries to distract the guests with conversation.
Remember that trip to Brighton, Vicky? Tamara reminisces. Back when the union gave us those holidays?
How could I forget! You were with that swimming instructor, werent you?
Shut up! Tamara laughs. Nigels still jealous!
Laughter erupts, and for a moment Victoria forgets her own dread. Then a knock sounds at the hall.
Finally! Emma exclaims, rushing to answer.
She returns alone, face pale. Mum, can I have a word?
Victoria excuses herself from the guests and steps into the hallway. A stranger stands there, a large box in his arms.
Good afternoon, Im from The Sweet Spot. Did you order a cake?
Yes, Victoria stammers. Didnt my soninlaw collect it?
No, were closing soon and the order was never picked up. I thought Id bring it myself since I have the address. Peoples celebrations matter.
A knot tightens in Victorias throat. Where is Kevin? What happened to him?
Thank you so much, she says, pulling out her wallet. How much do I owe?
She pays the courier, places the cake on the kitchen counter, and turns back to Emma.
Wheres your husband?
I dont know, Mum, Emma says, tears welling. His phone has been silent for half an hour.
Victoria steadies herself. Go join the guests; Ill sort the cake.
After Emma leaves, Victoria sinks heavily onto a stool. Ten years of Kevins unreliability, broken promises, and silence have worn her down. Shes endured it all for Emma and Lily, but today a line is crossed.
She lifts the cakea stunning sponge masterpiece with cream roses and the inscription Happy Birthday!and carries it to a large serving platter. At that moment Lily peers into the kitchen.
Grandma, wheres Daddy?
I dont know, love, Victoria answers honestly. But look at this beautiful cake!
Lilys eyes light up. Can I carry it to the living room?
Sure, just be careful.
Lily takes the platter, sticks out the tip of her tongue in concentration, and trots into the dining room. Victoria follows, ready to catch it if needed. Lily manages perfectly; the cake arrives on the table to enthusiastic applause.
Now, dear Victoria, the neighbours husband says, raising his glass, let me toast you on this wonderful jubilee and wish
A loud bang from the front door interrupts him. Kevin staggers in, reeking of alcohol.
Here I am! he declares cheerfully. Happy birthday, everyone!
An awkward silence falls. Victoria feels a chill as she reads the pain and resignation in Emmas eyes.
Kevin, Emma whispers, where have you been?
Whats it to you? he shrugs, heading for the table. Met a mate, had a few drinks and look, the cakes already here! See, I sorted it!
The cake was delivered from the bakery, Victoria says icily. Because you didnt pick it up.
Whatever, Kevin plops onto a free chair. Im here now, pour something!
The guests exchange uneasy looks. The festive mood collapses. Someone coughs delicately, Tamara begins to gather her purse, clearly ready to leave.
Thanks for coming, everyone! Victoria suddenly announces, standing from behind the table. I truly appreciate you sharing this day with me. I have an important announcement.
All heads turn; even Kevin stops reaching for the bottle.
For ten years my daughter and soninlaw have lived in my flat, I never interfered in their marriage, she says, each word heavy. I endured disrespect, irresponsibility, and lazinessall for Emma and Lily. But today is my birthday, and Im giving myself a gift.
She faces Kevin. Kevin, from tomorrow you are no longer welcome in this house. You have twentyfour hours to gather your things and find somewhere else to live.
What? You cant he stammers. You have no right!
I do, Victoria replies calmly. This is my home, and I decide who lives here.
Emma turns to her, eyes downcast. Mum, are you sure?
Absolutely, Victoria confirms. Its decided.
Enough! Kevin shouts, slamming his fist on the table, making the cutlery clatter. Ill leave, but my feet will never tread this floor again!
He staggers toward the door, knocking something over in the hallway. The front door slams shut, and silence returns.
A small voice breaks it. Can I have the cake now?
Everyone chuckles nervously, the tension easing a little. Victoria slices the cake, hiding the tremor in her hands. She doesnt know if she made the right call, but she feels there was no other way. The cake truly marks the end of a chapter with Kevin.
Gradually the guests drift away, understanding the celebration is over. Soon only Victoria, Emma, and Lily remain.
Mum, Emma says softly, standing close, I need to tell you something
No need to say anything, love. I understand.
No, you dont, Emma says, shaking her head. Ive wanted to leave him for ages but was scared youd object. What would you saykeep tolerating him for the childs sake?
Victoria pulls Emma into a hug. Silly girl, I see how you suffer. Lily sees it too. She needs a happy mother, not a fake family.
But what now? Emma whispers, clinging as she did in childhood.
It will be fine, Victoria assures. Well get through this together.
By evening Kevin returns, sober and quiet, packing his belongings while casting pleading glances at Emma. She remains firm; ten years of empty promises have hardened her heart.
Could I have the TV back? he mutters, zipping his bag. I bought it.
On my dime, Emma replies evenly. Just go, Kevin. Just go.
When the door finally closes, Victoria embraces Emma. You know, I have some savings. Not much, but enough for a deposit on a flat for you and Lily. The rest you can mortgageafter all, youre now a department head; the bank will approve.
Emmas eyes widen. Youre serious? I thought wed keep living here
Well stay until youre settled, Victoria smiles. Then Ill visit, help Lily, maybe even host tea for you both.
Mum
At thirtyfive its not too late to have another child for Lily, if you wish. Just choose the right partner.
Emma laughs through tears. Youre impossible!
I just want you both happy, Victoria says earnestly. And this birthday turned out better than I imaginedits the start of a new life.
They stand in the kitchen, arms around each other, while outside the sun sets on the old chapter. On the table, the untouched birthday cake with its creamy roses and Happy Birthday! inscription watches silently.
Six months later Emma and Lily move into a cosy twobedroom flat in a new development. Victoria visits often, helping with repairs and offering advice. A year after that, a new physics teacher, Simon Clarke, appears at Victorias door, bearing a bouquet of daisies and theatre tickets.
Colleagues say you love Chekhov, he says shyly. The theatre is showing The Cherry Orchard next week
Victoria smiles and invites him in. Come in, Simon. I was just about to have tea with cake. Join us?
