Chapter 5 - The Forgotten Birthday
Savannah’s birthday arrived nine days before the anniversary party.
At eight in the morning, Nolan called her.
For one hopeful second, Savannah believed he remembered.
“The landlord says rent has not arrived,” he said.
“It is due tomorrow.”
“Can you send it today? He is bothering me.”
Savannah closed her eyes. “Good morning to you too.”
“What?”
“Nothing.”
After the call, her parents sent messages in the family group chat about the anniversary decorations. Neither mentioned her birthday.
By noon, Savannah’s employees surprised her in the conference room with flowers and a cake.
Maya handed her a card signed by the entire office.
“You remembered,” Savannah said.
“Of course we remembered.”
Savannah stared at the candles.
She had known most of her employees for fewer than five years, yet they understood something her family had forgotten.
That evening, Elaine finally called.
“I need the caterer’s updated number.”
Savannah waited.
Her mother continued discussing the party.
“Mom, do you know what day it is?”
There was a pause.
“Oh,” Elaine said. “Your birthday.”
“Yes.”
“I have been so distracted with the anniversary. We will celebrate later.”
Savannah heard Nolan laughing in the background.
Elaine lowered her voice. “Your brother says happy birthday.”
“He could tell me himself.”
“Do not start an argument.”
Savannah ended the call.
Ten minutes later, Nolan sent a message.
Happy birthday. Did you send the rent?
Savannah did not reply.
Instead, she opened the folder Maya had prepared.
For the first time, Savannah examined every expense carefully.
Her parents’ house was not in danger. Their retirement income could cover basic costs if they stopped spending carelessly. Nolan was physically healthy and fully capable of working. The Mercedes was legally owned by Reed Development.
None of them were helpless.
May you like
They were simply accustomed to Savannah saying yes.
She began creating a list of everything that would change after the anniversary.
