The Life Daisy Devlin Designed

CHAPTER 20

“ Surprise! ” An explosion of party whistles, cheering and clapping greeted Daisy as she and James walked into the upstairs area of Bar 55, where James had suggested they go for a drink before dinner.

She stared, momentarily overwhelmed, as friends and family threw streamers and popped bottles of sparkling wine. The room was filled with balloons and fairy lights, and a huge Happy 30 th Birthday banner hung over the bar.

She blinked, and looked at James, who was grinning widely. “You did this?” How was it even possible? How had she ever doubted him?

“Me and Alma. Laura helped.”

Daisy cupped her hands over her face. Maybe that was why James and Alma had been spending so much time together lately? They’d probably been planning this for her!

“I don’t know what to say. Thank you!”

He kissed her. “Just enjoy it.”

She felt his hand on her back as he guided her into the room, where she tried to register everyone buzzing around her.

“Happy birthday, Daisy flower!”

She spun to see her dad in a floral shirt, denim jeans, and a faded, well-washed corduroy jacket. He opened his arms and she stepped into them, hugging his tall, slender frame.

“Thanks for coming, Dad.”

“I wouldn’t miss my baby girl’s big birthday.” Eric pulled back, smiling at her. “Anyway, James tells me it’s a good place for craft beer. I’m well up for that.”

“Is Mum – ?”

“Over there.” He nodded to the far side of the room. “She’s at the buffet with your sister. Rosie’s probably positioned herself there so she could identify the most boring food for those poor kids.” He winked. “But I love her too. Now, I’ll see you later, have fun!”

He disappeared into the throng, leaving family and friends to grab their turn with her. A drinks waiter passed and James took two glasses of sparkling wine from his tray, handing one to Daisy. “To you!”

He clinked her glass and Daisy smiled shyly.

“Now what?”

He gestured around the room. “Everyone’s here for you, Daisy. Go do what you do best.”

“Dance with me later?” She smiled at him, and he gave her another quick kiss.

“You bet.”

She joined Laura quite a while later at the bar.

“You sure you had no idea, babes?” Laura slanted Daisy a look. “A Dirty Martini for the Birthday Girl and a Virgin Margarita for her best friend,” she told the barman.

Daisy giggled. “I can’t remember the last time I drank this much, Laura. Maybe I should have one of those virgin things too.”

“It’s your birthday, Daisy! And the only reason I’m not drinking is because I’m on antibiotics for a stupid UTI.”

Daisy felt a pang of sympathy for her. “Do you think you’re pushing yourself too much to be ready for this year’s marathon?” she said. “You could do next year’s instead.”

Laura rolled her eyes. “Chill, Daisy. It’s your birthday – you’re supposed to be having a good time, not worrying about other people. Now, drink up and stay in bed tomorrow with James!”

The barman placed their drinks in front of them, and Laura took a sip. “Tell Alma to piss off for the day.”

Daisy giggled again. “God, I feel so bad. I thought James and Alma were ...” She caught Laura’s expression. “I mean, I thought they were leaving me out of something.” She tucked her hair behind her ears to reveal delicate, emerald-drop and diamond earrings. “What do you think? They’re vintage – James’ birthday present to me.”

Laura lifted one earring to examine it. “Nice!” She glanced over at James. “He’s obviously doing well for himself.”

Daisy beamed. “Yeah, but I only get to be thirty once!” She couldn’t admit that she’d thought the tiny green velvet box had contained an engagement ring. Although she didn’t know how she’d have felt. Would she have panicked and said no? Or worse … yes?

Laura laughed dryly. “I’m not just talking about the earrings, I’m talking about all this! Renting out this place, all the catering – it wasn’t cheap.”

Laura was right, and James had done it all for her – she’d just been misreading the signs! Daisy felt a rush of happiness.

“Laura, before I get too drunk, I want to say –”

“Stop!” Laura held up a hand. “Are you about to get mushy on me?”

“A bit.”

Laura sighed. “Say it. Quickly.”

“Thank you for being part of this. You’re my best friend, and I love you.”