Flames of Betrayal

On the morning of Nicole's birthday, she was up at the crack of dawn, slipping into her most cherished princess dress.

I had learned my lesson and texted Simon three days ahead, but silence was all I got back.

Nicole had just finished a round of piano practice, her fingers dancing over the keys, and turned to me with eyes full of anticipation.

She was all set to play 'Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star' for Simon, the tune he had taught her last year, which she had been perfecting for days.

The moment our eyes locked, she understood.

Little Nicole's head drooped as she gently closed the piano.

"Dad's swamped. He can't make it."

Nicole cracked open the cake box, slicing off a piece.

"Don't worry, Mom. That just means more cake for us, right?"

Nicole's brave front cut me deep.

I felt utterly worthless, failing to grant my girl's simple wish.

With a heavy heart, I messaged Simon again.

[All Nicole wants is one birthday with you.]

[Can't you even do that much?]

Minutes ticked by until a ping broke the silence.

[Go ahead without me. I'll do something special for Nicole later.]

I was about to lose it, but the message vanished, replaced by a new one.

[I'll be there soon.]