Victoria Bennett smoothed the trembling napkin beneath the vase of roses and checked her watch once more. Less than an hour remained until the guests arrived, and the nerves in her hands would not settle. Her sixtieth birthday was a milestone; she wanted everything to be flawless.
Emily, are you almost ready? she called toward the kitchen, where the clatter of dishes echoed.
Yes, Mum, just finishing the salads! her daughter shouted back. Youd better check on Chris; he said he was going to pick up some sparkling water.
Victoria let out a weary sigh and walked to the spare bedroom where her soninlaw stayed. Ten years under the same roof and she still could not get used to his leisurely pace. For him everything was in a minute and on my way. As always, Chris sat at his computer, eyes glued to the screen.
Chris, you were supposed to go to the shop, Victoria said, trying to keep her voice soft, though a hint of irritation slipped through.
Right, right, Mum, Im about to leave, he replied without even turning his head, still clicking the mouse.
The guests will be here any minute.
Ill be back, dont worry.
She left the room, clenched her teeth and thought of the endless promises he’d made about saving for his own flatpromises that never materialised. At least she had her granddaughter, Poppy, the one bright spot in her days.
Gran, will there be cake? the twelveyearold appeared in the hallway, as if reading her thoughts.
Of course, love, your dad will collect it from the bakery, Victoria answered.
Poppy frowned. What if he forgets? He missed my swimming lesson yesterday even though he promised to drive me.
Victoria brushed a strand of hair from Poppys forehead. Ill remind him. Now put on that pretty dress we bought last week.
When Poppy disappeared, Victoria returned to Chris. Dont forget the cake. Ive ordered it from The Sugar Spot on Oxford Street.
I remember, Mum. First sparkling water, then the cake. Itll be perfect, he said, waving a hand.
Fifteen minutes later he finally tore himself away from the monitor, threw on his coat and headed for the door.
Chris, have you taken the money for the cake? Victoria called after him.
Its already paid, isnt it? he paused at the doorway.
No, I only gave a deposit. The balance is due on delivery.
Emily peeked out of the kitchen, a card in her hand. Mum, my cards on the tabletake it, please. Chris is a bit tight on cash right now, she said with a guilty smile.
Chris had always been short of money, but Victoria kept silent; she didnt want the evening to start with a quarrel. She slipped the required £75 from her purse and handed it to him.
Just dont be late, and remember the sparkling water, she warned.
When Chris shut the door behind him, Victoria returned to setting the table. This was not just a family gathering; former colleagues from her thirtyfive years teaching English literature were due to arrive. She wanted to go out on a high note, even five years into retirement.
Dont worry, Mum, Emily hugged her shoulders. Everything will be fine.
Im not worried, Victoria lied, forcing a smile. I just want it to be proper.
Her daughter nodded. It will be, Mum. Youre the best hostess.
The doorbell rang. First to arrive were her brother Nick and his wife Sarah, bearing a large gift bag. Happy birthday, Vicky! Sarah kissed her cheeks. Sixty is the new forty!
Thank you, darlings, Victoria said, her voice trembling with emotion. Come in, make yourselves at home.
Soon the flat filled with laughter, clinking glasses, and the warm chatter of old friends. The table groaned under a spread of classic dishes: a towering Olivier salad, jellied fish, beef à la française, homemade mushroom pâté, and stuffed peppers that seemed to go on forever.
Emily kept checking her phone, whispering to Victoria, Hes still not back. He said the shop was busy.
Victoria shook her head. She knew the busy shop excuse all too well. Somewhere, Chris was probably stuck with a mate or lost in his phone.
Lets start the feast, she announced, trying to sound upbeat.
Guests dug in, praising the food. Time slipped by, but Chris remained absent. Emily ventured out several times, each return looking more strained. Victoria tried to keep the conversation flowing, recalling a holiday in Blackpool with Tamara, a neighbour who had once been a teaching colleague.
Remember that trip to Blackpool, Vicky? Tamara laughed. When you chased that cheeky instructor from the pool?
Emily giggled, Oh, shut up, Tamara! You still owe me a drink for that story!
The room erupted in laughter, and for a moment Victorias worries faded. Then, from the hallway, a sudden knock shattered the cheer.
Finally! Emily shouted, hurrying to answer.
She returned pale, clutching a newcomers hand. Mum, can I have a word?
Victoria excused herself from the guests and stepped into the corridor. A courier stood there, a large box in his arms.
Good evening, Im from The Sugar Spot. Did you order a cake? he asked.
Yes, Victoria replied, bewildered. Didnt Chris pick it up?
No one collected it. Were closing soon, so I brought it myself. A birthday cant wait.
A cold knot formed in Victorias throat. Where was Chris? What had happened to him?
How much do I owe you? she asked, pulling out her wallet.
The courier gave her a receipt for the remaining £75. She paid, the cake placed gently on the kitchen counter.
Emily, wheres your husband? Victoria asked, her voice barely a whisper.
I dont know, Mum, Emily said, tears brimming. His phone has been dead for half an hour.
Victoria steadied herself. Go back to the guests. Ill sort the cake.
Emily hurried away. Victoria sank onto a stool, the weight of ten years of unkept promises crushing her. She opened the box, revealing a perfect sponge cake crowned with cream roses and the words Happy Birthday! in elegant icing.
Just then, Poppy peeked in. Gran, wheres Dad?
Im not sure, love, Victoria answered honestly. But look at this beautiful cake!
Poppys eyes lit up. Can I carry it to the dining room?
Careful now, Victoria cautioned.
Poppy lifted the platter with surprising poise, balancing it as she trotted to the living room. Victoria followed, ready to catch it if needed. The cake arrived on the table amid a chorus of delighted exclamations.
Now, dear Victoria, said Mr. Hughes, the neighbours husband, raising his glass, let us toast the birthday lady
A sudden crash of the front door slammed open. Chris staggered in, reek of cheap gin clinging to him.
Here I am! he announced cheerfully. Happy birthday, everyone!
An uneasy silence fell. Victoria felt a chill as she saw the hurt and resignation in Emilys eyes.
Chris, Emily whispered, where have you been?
Whats it to you? he shrugged, heading for the buffet. Met a mate, had a few pints and look, the cakes already here! I sorted it!
The cake was delivered by the bakery, Victoria said, her tone as cold as ice. Because you didnt collect it.
Whatever, Chris slumped into a vacant chair. Im here now, so pour the drinks!
Guests exchanged uneasy glances. The atmosphere had turned sour. Tamara began gathering her purse, clearly ready to leave.
Thank you all for coming, Victoria announced suddenly, standing from behind the table. I have an announcement.
The room fell silent, even Chris stopped reaching for the bottle.
For ten years my daughter and soninlaw have lived in my flat, I have never interfered in their marriage, she began, each word a struggle. I have endured disrespect, irresponsibility, and lazinessfor Emily and Poppys sake. But today is my birthday, and I am giving myself a gift.
She turned toward Chris. Chris, as of tomorrow you are no longer welcome here. You have twentyfour hours to collect your things and find somewhere else to live.
What? You cant he sputtered.
I can, Victoria replied evenly. This is my home, and I decide who stays.
Emily stared at the floor, her fingers whiteknuckled around the napkin. Finally she whispered, Mum, are you sure?
Absolutely, Victoria said, nodding. Ive made up my mind.
Enough! Chris banged his fist on the table, sending silverware clattering. Ill go, Ill be out of here!
He surged to his feet, almost toppling his chair, and stumbled toward the door. Something crashed in the hallway, then the front door slammed shut.
A small voice cut through the tension. Can I have a piece of cake now?
Everyone laughed nervously, the tension easing a fraction. Victoria sliced the cake, hiding the tremor in her hands. She knew she had done what had to be done; the cake truly marked the end of that chapter.
Guests gradually left, aware the celebration was over. Soon only Victoria, Emily, and Poppy remained in the quiet flat.
Gran, I need to tell you something, Emily began, eyes shining with unshed tears.
Theres no need to speak, love. I understand.
No, you dont, Emily protested, shaking her head. Ive wanted a divorce for ages, but I was scared youd object. I thought youd say endure it, for the child
Victoria pulled Emily into a hug. Sweetheart, I see how you suffer. Poppy sees it too. She needs a happy mum, not a pretend family.
What will happen now? Emily whispered, clinging to her mother as a child once did.
Everything will be alright, Victoria promised. Well get through this together.
Later that evening, a sober Chris returned, his head clear. He packed his belongings in silence, stealing occasional pleading glances at Emily. She remained unmoved; ten years of empty promises had calcified her heart.
Maybe you could at least give me the TV? he muttered, zipping his bag. I bought it.
On my tab, Emily replied coolly. Just go.
When the door finally closed, Victoria wrapped her arms around Emilys shoulders. You know, I have some savings. Not a fortune, but enough for a deposit on your own flat. Youre a senior manager now; the bank will approve a mortgage.
Emilys eyes widened. Youre serious? I thought wed keep living together
Well stay until you have a place, Victoria said, smiling. Then Ill visit with Poppy whenever you need.
Mum! Emily exclaimed.
Youre thirtyfive, you could still have a baby for Poppys brother or sister. Just choose a good partner this time.
Emily laughed through tears. Youre impossible!
I just want you both happy, Victoria said earnestly. And you know, this birthday turned out better than I expected. Its the start of a new life.
They stood in the kitchen, embracing, while the sunset painted the sky outsidea final glow on the old life. On the table, the untouched cake with its cream roses and Happy Birthday! inscription bore silent witness to the change.
Six months later Emily and Poppy moved into a cosy twobedroom flat in a new development. Victoria visited often, helping with repairs and offering advice. A year after, a new neighbour, Dr. Simon Clarke, a physics teacher from Victorias former school, knocked on her door with a bouquet of daisies and theatre tickets.
Colleagues say you love Chekhov, he said shyly. The theatre is showing The Cherry Orchard this week
Victoria smiled, inviting him in. Come in, Simon. I was just about to have tea with a slice of cake.
