The fifth wheel

The only time that I ever really wish I was dating someone seriously or married is when I have to attend family events. Take for example, my birthday. It's next week. I have no issues with getting older; in fact, the invite to the bash I'm throwing myself is for my 35th even though that particular number is still a few years away. What bothers me though is that on the actual day, I have to go out with two couples by myself. I will be the fifth wheel at my own goddamn birthday dinner. My parents decided to throw a "mini" celebration and they invited my sister and her husband along to dinner and the theater so it will be the cozy five of us -- that's right, two couples and me. When around my sister and her new husband, my parents to get goopy and reminiscent of when they were young and newly married, complete with goo goo eyes and shared food. Each couple is quite fond of ordering fajitas for two whenever we go out. Each time I throw up a little in my mouth. They always make me feel like they secretly pity me or something. Not because of what they say, but because they try so hard not to say anything at all or to broach the subject. They don't ask if I'm seeing someone I might like to bring along. They don't even ask if I'd like to bring a friend. I don't want to be upset on my birthday. I love my birthday and I don't like have any prelude to being upset based on stupid things like this.