Dave’s Birthday Dinner Turns Into a Jealousy-Filled Showdown
Warm afternoon sunlight fills the room.
Dave walks around the living room, checking the decorations for his birthday dinner. A smile spreads across his face as he looks at the beautifully prepared table.
His phone rings.
Dave looks at the screen.
It’s Wayne.
He answers immediately.
Hey, Wayne! I wanted to personally invite you to my birthday dinner tonight.
Of course, Dave. Happy birthday, man. I appreciate the invitation.
I’m serious, Wayne. You have to come. I don’t want you making excuses.
I’ll be there. You have my word.
Dave hangs up, looking satisfied.
Across the room, Amber has been listening.
Her expression suddenly changes.
She slowly walks toward Dave.
Who was that?
Wayne.
Amber’s eyes widen slightly.
Yeah. I invited him to my birthday dinner. He said he’s coming.
Amber forces a small smile, but her worry is obvious.
Oh… okay.
Dave notices her unusual reaction.
Why do you look worried?
I’m not worried.
She looks away.
But inside, her thoughts are racing.
Amber remembers everything that has happened between them. Her jealousy begins to grow.
Dave… did Wayne say if he was bringing anybody?
No. He just said he was coming.
Amber nods slowly.
Okay.
She walks away, pretending everything is fine.
But her face says otherwise.
The birthday dinner is ready.
Candles glow on the dining table.
Plates and glasses are carefully arranged.
Dave stands near the front door, waiting for his guests.
Amber walks into the room wearing a nervous expression. She keeps checking the clock.
Why are they taking so long?
Relax, Amber. It’s a birthday dinner, not a business meeting.
Amber gives him a forced smile.
Suddenly—a car pulls up outside.
Amber immediately turns toward the window.
Her heart sinks.
Dave walks toward the door.
That must be Wayne.
Amber follows behind him.
Dave opens the door.
Wayne stands there, smiling.
But Amber’s smile disappears instantly.
D’Nisha is standing beside Wayne.
Amber freezes.
Happy birthday, Dave!
Wayne! You made it!
Dave shakes Wayne’s hand before turning toward D’Nisha.
And D’Nisha! I’m glad you came too.
Thank you, Dave. Happy birthday.
Amber watches them carefully.
Her jaw tightens.
You brought D’Nisha?
Yeah. I hope that’s okay.
Of course.
Her voice is calm. Her expression is not.
Come on, everybody. Let’s enjoy the evening.
They walk inside.
Amber stays behind for a moment.
She stares at D’Nisha.
Her jealousy grows stronger.
Everyone sits around the table.
Dave is enjoying himself.
Wayne and D’Nisha sit together.
D’Nisha tells Dave a funny story.
No way! You actually did that?
I did! And everybody thought it was hilarious.
Dave continues laughing.
Amber sits across from them. She barely touches her food.
Her eyes remain fixed on D’Nisha.
Amber, are you okay?
I’m fine.
You don’t look fine.
I said I’m fine.
Hey, tonight is supposed to be about my birthday. Let’s keep everything positive.
You’re right.
So, Dave, what did you wish for when you blew out the candles?
If I tell you, it won’t come true.
Everyone laughs.
Everyone except Amber.
And now she’s going after Dave too!
Amber grips her fork tightly. She watches as Dave and D’Nisha continue talking.
Amber walks into the kitchen alone.
She takes a deep breath.
She looks toward the dining room.
Dave and D’Nisha are still talking.
I can’t believe this.
First Anthony… now Dave?
Her anger grows.
Wayne suddenly walks into the kitchen.
Amber?
What?
Why are you acting like this?
Amber looks directly at him.
You knew bringing D’Nisha here would make me uncomfortable.
This is Dave’s birthday. I brought D’Nisha because she’s important to me.
Of course.
Don’t turn this into something it isn’t.
I’m not turning anything into anything.
Then enjoy the dinner.
He walks away.
Amber watches him leave.
Dave raises his glass.