Margaret Thompson straightened the trembling napkin beneath the vase of roses and checked the clock once more. Less than an hour remained until the guests arrived, and she still could not calm her nerves. Her 60th birthday was a milestone, and she wanted everything to be flawless.
Emma, are you almost done? she called toward the kitchen, where plates clattered.
Almost, Mum! Im just finishing the salads, her daughter replied. Can you check on Kevin? He was supposed to pop out for some sparkling water.
Margaret let out a sigh and walked to the livingroom where her soninlaw was stationed. Ten years under the same roof and she still hadnt grown used to his laidback pace. Everything for him was in a minute and on the way. Now Kevin sat at his laptop, absorbed in whatever was on the screen.
Kevin, you were going to the shop, Margaret said, trying to keep her tone gentle, though irritation slipped through.
Yeah, yeah, Im just about to leave, he answered without looking up, his fingers still clicking the mouse.
Guests will be here any minute.
Ill be back, dont worry.
She left the room clenching her teeth. It was always the same story. If it werent for Emma, she would have told Kevin to clear out the front door by now. Ten years together and nothing changed he kept promising to save for his own flat, yet the end never seemed to come. At least they had the granddaughter, Poppy, the one bright spot in Margarets life.
Gran, is the cake coming? Poppys voice floated down the hallway, as if she could read her thoughts.
Yes, love, it will be. Your dad is supposed to pick it up from the bakery.
Poppy frowned. Will he remember? Yesterday he skipped my swimming lesson even though he promised to drive me.
Margaret brushed Poppys hair affectionately. Dont worry, Ill remind him. Now put on that pretty dress we bought last week.
When Poppy disappeared upstairs, Margaret turned back to Kevin.
Dont forget the cake. I ordered it from The Sweet Spot on High Street.
I remember, he said, waving a hand. First the sparkling water, then the cake. Itll be perfect.
Fifteen minutes later Kevin finally shut his laptop, threw on his coat and headed for the door.
Kevin, did you get the money for the cake? Margaret called after him.
Its already paid, isnt it? he paused at the threshold.
No, I only put down a deposit. The balance is due on collection.
Emma peeked out of the kitchen, a towel draped over her shoulder. Mum, I left my card on the table. Grab it, please. Kevins always short on cash, she said with a guilty smile.
Kevins finances were always tight, but Margaret kept quiet. She didnt want the celebration to start with a row. She slipped the required amount from her purse and handed it to him.
Just dont be late, she warned. And get the sparkling water!
When Kevins door shut, Margaret returned to the dining table, smoothing the linen. Today she would host not only relatives but also former colleagues. She had spent thirtyfive years teaching English literature, earned their respect, and now, five years into retirement, she wanted to end on a high note.
Dont worry, Mum, Emma hugged her. Everything will be fine.
Im not worried, Margaret lied. I just want it to be proper.
Emma nodded, It will, Mum. Youre the best host I know.
The doorbell rang. First to arrive were Margarets brother Nigel and his wife Tamara.
Happy birthday, Val! Tamara kissed her on both cheeks, handing over a large gift bag. You look radiant! Sixty is the new forty!
Thank you, dears, Margaret said, touched. Come in, make yourselves at home.
Soon other guests filtered in: two former teachers, neighbour Mrs. Irving and her husband, a cousin from the suburbs. The flat filled with laughter, clinking glasses and chatter, but Kevin was still missing.
Emma, give Kevin a ring, Margaret whispered as the guests settled. Hes taking forever.
Emma slipped away to make a call, returning with a strained smile. Hes on his way, Mum. He said there was a queue at the shop.
Margaret only shook her head. She knew those queues. He was probably stuck with friends or glued to his phone.
Well then, lets start the feast, she announced, brightening her voice.
The table overflowed with British favourites: coronation chicken, smoked salmon, roast beef with Yorkshire pudding, mushy peas, leek and potato cakes, and stuffed peppers. The spread was a feast for the eyes.
Time ticked by and Kevin still hadnt appeared. Emma left the room several times to call him, each return more tense than the last. Margaret tried to keep the conversation flowing.
Remember our trip to Blackpool, Val? Tamara laughed. Those old union holidays?
How could I forget! You and that swimming instructor, remember?
Shut up! Tamara giggled. Nigel still gets jealous!
Laughter softened Margarets worries for a moment, until a sudden knock echoed through the hallway.
Finally! Emma shouted, racing to answer.
She returned alone, face pale.
Mum, can I have a word?
Margaret excused the guests and stepped into the corridor. A stranger stood there, a large box in his hands.
Good afternoon, Im from The Sweet Spot. Did you order a cake?
Yes, Margaret answered, confused. Didnt Kevin collect it?
Nope, the delivery man shrugged. Were closing soon and no ones picked it up. I thought Id bring it over since I have the address. A celebration needs its cake.
A knot tightened in Margarets 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 Emma.
Emma, wheres your husband?
I dont know, Mum, Emmas eyes welled. His phone hasnt answered for half an hour.
Alright, Margaret steadied herself. Go back to the guests, Ill sort the cake.
When Emma left, Margaret slumped into a stool. Ten years of Kevins empty promises, his constant unreliability all for Emmas sake and Poppys. Today, the final straw.
With trembling hands she lifted the cake a towering sponge adorned with cream roses and the words Happy Birthday! and set it on a serving platter. At that instant Poppy peeked into the kitchen.
Gran, wheres Daddy?
Im not sure, love, Margaret replied honestly. But look at this beautiful cake!
Poppys eyes lit up. Can I carry it to the sitting room?
Go ahead, but be careful.
Poppy took the platter, sticking out the tip of her tongue in concentration, and carried the cake into the dining room. Margaret followed, ready to catch it if needed. Poppy managed perfectly; the cake landed on the table amid gasps of admiration.
Now, dear Margaret, Mr. Irving said, raising his glass, allow me to toast you on this wonderful milestone and wish
His speech was cut short by the slam of the front door. Kevin staggered in, reeking of cheap whisky.
Here I am! he announced cheerfully. Happy birthday, everyone!
An awkward silence fell. Margaret felt a chill as she read the pain in Emmas eyes.
Kevin, Emma whispered, where have you been?
Whats it to you? he shrugged, heading for the table. Met a mate, had a few drinks and look, the cakes already here! See? I handled it!
The cake was delivered by the bakery, Margaret said icily. Because you didnt pick it up.
Whatever, Kevin plopped onto an empty chair. Im here now, so pour the drinks!
Guests exchanged uneasy glances. The festive mood was ruined. Tamara dabbed at her eyes, gathering her purse.
Thank you all for coming, Margaret suddenly declared, rising from her seat. I have something important to say.
Everyone fell silent, even Kevin stopped reaching for the bottle.
For ten years Ive let my daughter and her husband live in my flat without interfering, she began, each word a struggle. I endured their disrespect, their laziness, all for Emma and Poppy. But today is my birthday, and Im giving myself a gift.
She turned to Kevin. Kevin, as of tomorrow you are no longer welcome here. You have twentyfour hours to collect your things and find somewhere else to stay.
What? You cant he sputtered.
I can, Margaret replied calmly. This is my home, and I decide who lives in it.
Emma! Say something to your mother! he shouted, looking at his wife.
Emma lowered her gaze, her fingers whiteknuckled around the napkin.
Mum, are you sure? she asked quietly.
Absolutely, Margaret nodded. Its decided.
Fine, go on then! Kevin slammed his fist on the table, sending cutlery jangling. Ill be out of here. My feet wont be on this floor again!
He rose, nearly toppling his chair, and stormed toward the hallway. Something crashed, then the front door slammed shut.
A brief hush settled until little Poppy piped up, Can I have the cake now?
A nervous laugh broke the tension, and Margaret finally sliced into the cake, hiding the tremor in her hands. She didnt know if shed done the right thing, but she felt there was no other way. That cake truly marked the end of an era.
Gradually the guests filtered out, understanding the celebration was over. Soon only Margaret, Emma, and Poppy remained.
Mom, Emma said, moving closer in the quiet kitchen, I need to tell you something
Dont bother, love. I understand everything.
No, you dont, Emma shook her head. Ive wanted a divorce for ages but was scared youd object. What would you sayto endure, to choose for the child
Margaret pulled her daughter into a hug. Silly girl. I see how you suffer. Poppy sees it too. She needs a happy mum, not a pretend family.
But what now? Emma whispered, clutching her mother.
Everything will be fine, Margaret assured. Well manage together.
By nightfall Kevin returned, sober and subdued, quietly packing his belongings while casting apologetic glances at Emma. She was unmoved. Ten years of broken promises had hardened her heart.
Maybe you could give me the TV back? he muttered, zipping his bag. I bought it.
On my dime, Emma replied evenly. Just go, Kevin. Just go.
When the door closed behind him, Margaret embraced Emma. You know, Ive saved a little. It could cover the deposit for a flat for you and Poppy. The rest you could borrow youre a senior manager now, the bank will approve.
Emma stared, eyes wide. Youre serious? I thought wed keep living together
Well stay together until you have your own place, Margaret said, smiling. Then Ill visit, help with Poppy, maybe even have a guest room for someone else.
Mom
At thirtyfive you can still have another child for Poppy, if you wish. Just choose a good partner this time.
Emma laughed through tears. Youre impossible!
I just want you both happy, Margaret said earnestly. And you know what? This birthday turned out better than I imagined. Its the start of a new life.
They stood in the kitchen, arms around each other, while the sunset painted the sky, the last glow of the old life. On the table lay the untouched cake, its cream roses and Happy Birthday! inscription a silent witness to the change.
Six months later Emma and Poppy moved into a cosy twobedroom flat in a new development. Margaret visited often, helped with repairs, and offered decorating tips. A year after that, a new physics teacher, Sergei Clarke, appeared at her door with a bouquet of daisies and theatre tickets.
Colleagues say you love Chekhov, he said shyly. Were doing The Cherry Orchard at the local playhouse
Margaret smiled and welcomed him in. Come in, Sergei. I was just about to have tea with a slice of cake. Join us?
