I have to say that Orion had perfected the art of rubbing salt into my wounds.
His suggestion drew applause from the others, especially Evelyn, who beamed at him like a proud mother.
"Orion, you're so thoughtful. Even though this ungrateful son of mine doesn't deserve it, you still remember him."
"Honestly, I don't know what luck he has to have such an amazing friend like you."
"But he's the only one who doesn't deserve to celebrate his birthday! I can't even stand calling this trash my son!"
Isla chimed in, her eyes filled with contempt as they bore into me.
"Vincent Hayes, don't even think about celebrating your birthday!"
"You don't deserve to share the same birthday as Orion. What a disgrace!"
I stayed silent, enduring their scolding just like before.
Then, Orion took the leftover half of the cake and inserted a few candles into it.
"How could we let this go uncelebrated? Vincent has never had a proper birthday all these years."
"Vincent, how about using the leftover cake?"
Before I could even respond, he immediately continued, "Oh wait, no, that's too shabby."
"I'll go buy a new one downstairs. Just wait for me!"