Isla sneered with mockery in her voice. "Tch, do you really think I'd believe that?"
"Someone like you? That’s like a pauper trying to marry a queen."
"But don't kid yourself. It's impossible. You're not even worthy to carry my shoes!"
Orion spoke up, pretending to mediate.
"Isla, I asked him to be my best man. After all, it was our agreement back then."
"Vincent, please don't take it personally. I still treasure our old friendship."
"Even though we haven't stayed in touch all these years, I've always considered you my best friend and brother."
The moment Isla learned that Orion wanted me to be the best man, her expression softened slightly.
"Only Orion would be kind enough to show pity on you!"
"But let me warn you one last time. Don't cause any trouble at my wedding!"
With that, she opened the cake box and the celebration resumed. Once again, everyone was gathered to celebrate an unforgettable birthday for Orion.
No one, however, seemed to remember.
Today was my also birthday.
Years ago, it was because Orion and I were born on the same day that Evelyn had swapped us at the hospital.
She took me to a life of hardship while granting him a life of luxury.
One child was raised in heaven, pampered and adored by everyone.
The other was cast into hell, enduring years of domestic abuse.
Midway through the celebration, Orion paused, turning to look at me.
"Godmother, how could you forget? Today is also Vincent's birthday!"
"In that case, I'll order another cake right away so we can celebrate Vincent's birthday properly and welcome him back."
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!"
However, he moved toward the door but kept glancing back as if expecting someone to stop him.
Sure enough, Isla grabbed his arm quickly.
"Orion, why are you so nice to him?"
"Even this leftover cake is more than he deserves!"
"Vincent, you don't like it? Let me help you have a 'good' birthday, then!"
Before I could react, she picked up a piece of cake and smashed it into my face. The fork embedded in the slice jabbed my eye, sending a sharp pain through me.
"Haha! Smashing cakes is such fun on birthdays!"
Encouraged by her actions, Orion joined in, picking up another piece and throwing it at me with an amused chuckle.
Evelyn was even more delighted watching her precious son laugh so joyously.
Go ahead, have fun! As long as Orion is happy, that's all that matters!"
One by one, pieces of cake flew at me.
They hit my face again and again.
