My cousin busied himself with the preparations for Nathan's birthday celebration. He took over the kitchen, barking orders at Hana while arranging decorations. By the time everything was ready, the table was laden with food and the room glowed with festive lights.
After dinner, as the candles on the cake flickered, my cousin leaned forward, his voice full of eager anticipation. "Nathan, tell me, do you have any wishes? I will make them come true."
Nathan didn't hesitate. His young eyes sparkled with determination. "I want to get into Newman University!"
Hearing Nathan's response, my cousin beamed. He reached out and gently ruffled Nathan's hair. "I can't help you with that," he said, "but with your smarts, you'll get into Newman. I'm sure of it. And when that day comes, I've got a surprise for you. One you'll never forget!"
Nathan smiled politely. "Thank you, Uncle."
As I watched my cousin's face, overflowing with affection and pride, a faint smile tugged at the corners of my lips.
A surprise you'll never forget? Oh, dear cousin, I've been preparing one for you too—one that will stay with you for the rest of your life.
Every year on Nathan's birthday, my cousin's enthusiasm eclipsed even Hana's and mine. He would arrive with the most extravagant cakes, the most thoughtful gifts and the brightest smile. Meanwhile, my son—Rowan—faded into the background.
After my cousin broke Rowan's leg, the boy disappeared completely from my sight. Whenever Hana brought up his absence, her voice tinged with concern, my cousin would wave it off with a sneer. "Don't bring up that wretched creature. Just thinking about him makes me angry!"
I didn't argue. I simply watched as my cousin buried Rowan deeper into the shadows of neglect and abuse. Eighteen years passed like this—until the day Nathan's acceptance to Newman University became official.
***
The celebratory banquet was quite grand. My house was bathed in warm light, the fine linen tablecloths and elaborate floral arrangements setting the scene for a joyous occasion. Nathan, dressed in a tailored suit, stood beside me, receiving compliments with poise and humility. Hana's eyes sparkled with pride and even my usually reserved mother-in-law seemed unusually cheerful.