“Where is Uncle Derek?” the little boy asked. He had on a conical paper hat that was bigger than his head itself. The hat read “Birthday Boy” with a big number four.

“He is probably still outside.” His aunt said to him. “I am sure he will be back in soon.” She bent down and took the boy’s hand, leading him into the kitchen. “Would you like some chips?”

“Yes.” The boy said with a big smile. As he grabbed for them his aunt, Marie, could see Derek sitting on the steps outside through the kitchen window. There was an ashtray half full to his left, and five empty beer cans to his right. She walked over to the window and cracked it just a tad.

“Jesus, Derek, we have only been here an hour.” She whispered, as not to be overheard by the rest of the party guests.

“Not my fault they had the dumb thing on football Sunday.” He gruffed without looking at her.

“He is opening presents in a couple of minutes. Please be inside for that, at least.” She shut the window and walked back into the living room. Derek took another draw of a cigarette and stubbed it out. He got up slowly, took a big gulp of beer, shook it to make sure it was empty, and placed it next to the other five. He walked slowly to the back door, opened it without making a sound, and slunk to the back of the kitchen. He could see the gifts from here. Marie turned from the couch and they caught eyes. Derek put a comical smile on and waved to her. Marie rolled her eyes and turned back around.

“Just five minutes.” Derek said under his breath. “Just five minutes with these morons and I can go back outside.” He walked to the fridge and grabbed another beer. When he opened it a million eyes turned and looked at him. Derek looked back. “Happy birthday!” He yelled and chuckled to himself as he walked back to the edge of the kitchen.

“Is he okay?” Marie’s sister, Tonya, asked her.

“Who knows.” Marie said back. “His drinking has been really bad. Which makes no sense since he barely works. What is there to be stressed about?”

“Oof.” Tonya replied.

….to be continued