Summary

The short story “We Can’t Be Good at Everything” by Emma Sloley takes place during the birthday party of a three-year-old boy, William. 

William’s father, Miles, wants to use the party as an opportunity to reconnect with his famous mother, Fenella. He is anxious about asking her something regarding William. His wife, Jill, reassures him that Fenella will surely accept his request.

Fenella arrives late at the party, along with her assistants and Miles’s father. After briefly greeting Miles, she goes to greet William. Miles thinks that Fenella and William seem to be very fond of each other, but, at the same time, he thinks to himself that his mother is only performing love for her grandchild. 

The balloon which William is holding flies away and is pier...