Chapter 51. Happy Birthday, Son

TOBY

"I was rather surprised when you reached out for a private conversation like this. The last time we spoke in such a setting, it resulted in my marriage," I remarked to my father in a casual tone, knowing well that he wouldn't engage until he was ready. "One could easily assume that you remembered the significance of today."

"I do acknowledge that it's your birthday, my son. Your mother has organized a modest dinner gathering in your honor," he responded, his tone carrying a muted addition, "She ensures I don't forget," a comment he made to himself but which I caught. While I should have outgrown the need for paternal acknowledgment of my birthday, the sting of disappointment remained. It was disheartening that my own father couldn't muster the effort to remember the day I came into this world. As familiar as the feeling was, the disappointment lingered, a testament to his consistent prioritization of his bu