'The Party' by Louise McClean

We sit together, Mandy, Peter and I , happily and comfortably enjoying our after-dinner coffee.
The TV drones on in the background and I am just about to get up and clear the table when Mandy says, “ Maggie’s having a party for her birthday.”
“That’s nice,” I reply, “How old is she?”
“Sixteen. It’ll be something special I’m sure, knowing Maggie.”
“Where’s she having it?” I ask with interest.
“At home. We’re all going to stay the night. It will be a laugh,” says Mandy, smiling at the thought.
Peter turns his attention away from the TV and casually enquires,” Is it going to be a big do then?”
“Sure to be, she’s very popular. She has loads of friends,” says Mandy, glancing at her father.
“Are there going to be boys at this or is it a hen party?" he quizzes her.
“Oh Dad, don’t be so silly, of-course there’ll be boys there,” laughs Mandy, in disbelief at her father’s silly question.
“Will they be staying the night too?” he enquires casually.
“I expect so. Why are you asking me all these stupid questions anyway? Do you think it’s going to be an orgy or something?” asks Mandy, her voice rising slightly.
I say nothing. I have been here before, because Mandy has an elder sister.
“Where are you all going to sleep? Does this Maggie live in an hotel or such like?” Peter continues, warming to the subject.
“Don’t be soft. Of-course she doesn’t live in an hotel. She lives in an ordinary house like ours. We’ll sleep on the floor and all over the place I expect. Who cares anyway?” replies Mandy, in exasperation.
“Well I certainly care,” says Peter, “and I’m very sure your mother does too. We’ll need to know a few more details about this shindig before we decide if you will be going or not. Is there going to be booze, for example? You will all be under age you know. I was young myself once, believe it or not, and I remember all that horse play and groping that went on.”
Suddenly, Mandy jumps to her feet and shouts at her father, “ You are unbelievable!. You’re the most suspicious person I have ever known. You always think the worst of everybody. You have no right to judge us by the way you and your friends behaved all those years ago. We’re different now. We know how to behave, we’re responsible people,” and she bursts into tears and makes for the door.
Her father shrugs and turns his head away. I jump up and put my arms around her and want to kill Peter because I know, from past experience, that he is only teasing her. I also know that she will be at that party and enjoy every moment AND her father will drive her to it!
As Mandy calms down and leaves the room, sniffing loudly, I turn to her father.
“You are horrible,” I laugh.
“I know,” he smiles, “but I have made my point. Haven’t I?”