Valerie Parker smoothed the trembling napkin under the vase of flowers and glanced at the clock again. Less than an hour left until the guests arrived, and she still couldnt settle her nerves. Her 60th birthday was a big deal, and she wanted everything to be perfect.
Lucy, you almost there? she called toward the kitchen, where the clatter of plates could be heard.
Yeah, Mum, just finishing the salads! her daughter shouted back. Can you check on Kurt? He was supposed to pop out for some sparkling water.
Valerie let out a sigh and headed to her soninlaws room. After ten years under the same roof, she still hadnt got used to his laidback pace. Everything with him was in a minute and on my way. Right now, Kurt was glued to his laptop, scrolling intently.
Kurt, you said you were off to the shop, Valerie said, trying to keep her tone gentle, though a hint of irritation slipped through.
Yeah, yeah, Im about to go, he muttered without even looking up, still clicking the mouse.
Guests will be here any minute.
Dont worry, Ill be back in time.
Leaving the room, Valerie clenched her teeth. Same old story. If it werent for Lucy, shed have already told him to step out. Ten years together and nothing changed. He kept promising to save for his own place, but there was never any sign of it. At least theyd got a granddaughter Poppy was the only bright spot for her.
Grandma, is the cake coming? the twelveyearold asked as she appeared in the hallway, almost reading Valeries thoughts.
Yes, love, it will be. Your dad is supposed to pick it up from the bakery.
Poppy frowned. What if he forgets? He missed my swimming lesson yesterday even though he promised to take me.
Valerie gave her a gentle pat. Dont worry, Ill remind him. Now go put on that pretty dress we bought last week.
When Poppy disappeared, Valerie turned back to Kurt. Dont forget the cake. I ordered it from Sweet Corner on High Street.
I remember, I remember, he waved off. First the water, then the cake. Ill have it all sorted.
Fifteen minutes later Kurt finally shut his laptop, threw on a jacket and headed for the door.
Did you get the money for the cake? Valerie called after him.
Is it not already paid? he stopped in the doorway.
No, I only put down a deposit. The rest is due on collection.
Lucy popped out of the kitchen clutching a towel. Mum, my cards on the table, you can grab it. Kostas is a bit short on cash at the moment, she said with an apologetic smile.
Kurts finances were always tight, but Valerie kept quiet. She didnt want the celebration to start on a sour note. She pulled the right amount from her purse and handed it over.
Just dont be late, she warned. And remember the water!
As soon as Kurt shut the door behind him, Valerie went back to setting the table. Everything had to be flawless. Not only family would be there, but also former colleagues from the school where shed taught English and literature for thirtyfive years. Shed retired five years ago, and she wasnt about to let this milestone slip.
Dont stress, Mum, Lucy hugged her. Itll be fine.
Im not stressing, Valerie lied, I just want it to be proper.
Lucy nodded understandingly. It will, Mum. Youre the best host.
The doorbell rang. First to arrive were Valeries brother Nigel and his wife Tara.
Val, congratulations! Tara kissed her on both cheeks, handing over a big gift bag. You look stunning! Sixty is the new forty!
Thanks, love, Valerie said, a little choked up. Come on in, make yourselves at home.
Soon more guests trickled in: two former teachers, neighbour Irene and her husband, a distant cousin from the suburbs. The flat filled with chatter, laughter, and birthday wishes. Only Kurt was still missing.
Lucy, give him a call, Valerie whispered as people settled around the table. Hes taking forever.
Lucy slipped away, phone in hand, then returned with a strained smile. Hes on his way, Mum. Said there was a queue at the shop.
Valerie just shook her head. She knew those queues all too well probably stuck with mates or glued to his phone.
Well, lets not wait any longer, she said brightly. Lets start the feast!
The guests dug in. Valeries cooking was topnotch, the table groaning under a spread of British classics a classic Waldorf salad, smoked salmon, roast beef with Yorkshire puddings, mince pies, mushroom duxelles, stuffed peppers you name it.
Time ticked on and Kurt was still nowhere. Lucy kept stepping out to phone him, each time looking more tense. Valerie saw her daughters worry and tried to keep the conversation flowing.
Remember that trip to Brighton we took, Valerie? Tara laughed. Back when we were all on those union holidays?
How could I forget! You and that swimming instructor, remember?
Shh, dont bring that up now, Tara giggled, nudging Nigel, who was still eyeing his wife.
Everyone chuckled, and for a moment Valeries anxiety eased. Then a knock sounded at the front door.
Finally! Lucy shouted, rushing to answer.
She came back pale, alone.
Mum, can I have a word?
Valerie excused the guests and slipped into the hallway. A stranger stood there, a large box in his hands.
Hello, Im from SweetCorner. Did you order a cake?
Yes, Valerie answered, bewildered. Hasnt my soninlaw collected it?
No, were closing up and the order wasnt picked up. I thought Id bring it over since I have the address. Its a birthday, after all.
A lump rose in Valeries throat. Where was Kurt? What had happened to him?
Thank you so much, she said, pulling out her wallet. How much do I owe?
She paid the courier, set the cake on the kitchen counter and turned to Lucy.
Wheres your husband?
I dont know, Mum, Lucys eyes welled up. His phones been dead for half an hour.
Alright, Valerie steadied herself. Go greet the guests, Ill sort the cake.
When Lucy left, Valerie slumped onto a stool. Ten years of his empty promises and halffinished chores had worn her down. Shed kept quiet for Lucy and Poppys sake, but today the line was finally crossed.
She lifted the beautiful sponge cake, covered in buttercream roses with Happy Birthday! scrawled on top, and carried it to a large platter. At that moment Poppy peeked into the kitchen.
Grandma, wheres Daddy?
Im not sure, sweetheart, Valerie answered honestly. But look at this cake!
Poppys eyes lit up. Can I take it to the living room?
Sure, just be careful.
Poppy took the tray, stuck out her tongue playfully, and trotted into the lounge. Valerie followed, ready to catch any mishap. The girl managed perfectly the cake arrived on the table amid cheers.
Now, dear Valerie, the husband of the neighbour announced, raising his glass, lets toast to this wonderful milestone
A sudden slam of the front door cut him off. In stumbled Kurt, reeking of stale beer.
Here I am! he announced cheerfully. Happy birthday, everyone!
Awkward silence fell. Valerie felt a chill as she read the pain in Lucys eyes.
Kurt, Lucy said softly, where have you been?
Whats the big deal? he shrugged, heading for the table. Met a mate, had a few pints and look, the cakes already here! Did my job, didnt I?
The cake was delivered from the bakery, Valerie said icily. Because you didnt pick it up.
Whatever, Kurt plopped into an empty chair. Now Im here! Pour me a drink!
The guests exchanged uneasy looks. The festive mood was slipping. Someone cleared their throat, Tara began gathering her purse, clearly ready to leave.
Thanks for coming, everyone! Valerie suddenly declared, standing up. I truly appreciate you being here to share this day. I have an announcement.
All eyes turned to her, even Kurt froze midsip.
For ten years my daughter and soninlaw have lived under my roof, I never interfered in their marriage, she began, each word a struggle but spoken firmly. Ive endured disrespect, irresponsibility, and laziness, all for Lucy and Poppy. But today is my birthday, and Im treating myself.
She faced Kurt. Kurt, from tomorrow youre no longer living here. You have twentyfour hours to pack up and find somewhere else.
What? You cant he stammered.
I can, Valerie replied calmly. This is my flat, and I decide who stays.
Lucy! Say something to your mother! he pleaded, turning to her.
Lucy lowered her gaze, fingers white on the napkin.
Mum, she whispered at last, are you sure?
Absolutely, Valerie nodded. Ive decided.
Fine, get out! Kurt barked, slamming his fist on the table, making the cutlery clatter. Ill be out of here, never coming back!
He stormed out, the door slamming behind him. A brief crash echoed from the hallway, then silence.
Can I have the cake now? Poppy asked, brightening the tension.
Everyone laughed nervously, the mood easing a bit. Valerie began slicing the cake, hiding the tremor in her hands. She wasnt sure shed done the right thing, but it felt necessary. That cake truly put a full stop on their relationship with Kurt.
Guests started to drift out, understanding the party was over. Soon only Valerie, Lucy, and Poppy remained.
Mom, Lucy said, coming close, I need to tell you something
No need to say anything, love. I get it.
No, you dont, Lucy shook her head. Ive wanted a divorce for ages but was scared youd object. What would you say endure it, or choose for the kid
Valerie wrapped her arms around her daughter. Silly girl. I see how youre hurting. Poppy sees it too. She needs a happy mum, not a fake family.
But what now? Lucy whispered, hugging her.
Itll be fine, Valerie assured. Well get through this together.
By evening, Kurt returned, sober and quiet, packing his things, casting pleading glances at Lucy. She was unmoved. Ten years of empty promises had hardened her heart.
Maybe you could give me the TV? he muttered, zipping his bag. I bought it.
Take it, its yours, Lucy said coolly. Just go.
When the door shut behind him, Valerie pulled Lucy into a hug. You know, Ive got some savings. Not a lot, but enough for a deposit on your own flat. Youre a department manager now, the bank will approve the rest.
Lucys eyes widened. Are you serious? I thought wed keep living together
Well stay together until you have a place, Valerie smiled. Then Ill pop in for tea with Poppy whenever you need. And maybe a few more visitors.
Mum!
At thirtyfive you can still have a baby brother or sister for Poppy. Just pick the right partner this time.
Lucy laughed through tears. Youre impossible!
Just want you both happy, Valerie said, genuinely. And you know, 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 the last glow of an old life. On the table sat the untouched birthday cake, cream roses and Happy Birthday! written on it, a sweet reminder that the cake had truly put a point at the end of one story.
Six months later Lucy, Poppy, and Valerie moved into a cosy twobedroom flat in a new development. Valerie visited often, helping with DIY and offering advice. A year after that, a new neighbour, physics teacher Simon Clarke, knocked on her door with a bunch of daisies and theatre tickets.
Colleagues say you love Chekhov, he said shyly. Theres a production of The Cherry Orchard at the local theatre
Valerie smiled, letting him in. Come on in, Simon. I was just about to have tea with a slice of cake. Join us?
