2.
As I tossed the untouched food in the trash,
Austin called.
His voice was sharp. “What’s with the cake
photo on social media?”
“Are you trying to broadcast to everyone that
I didn’t celebrate your birthday?”
In previous years, my photos always featured
him.
Because no matter how busy he was, he’d
always come
Except this year.
“I wasn’t.”
My voice was flat.
“Don’t play coy. I know you’re upset I wasn’t
there.”
His voice was laced with annoyance.
“I told you, I had a last–minute work
emergency, and I sent you the money, so
don’t make a fuss.”
“Okay, I’m busy. Bye.”
The call ended with a beep.
I laughed, a self–deprecating sound. I’d been
foolishly hoping he’d change his mind.
A love gone sour could never be restored.