A cake is a very good reason to gather.

A cake arrives at the table and, for a moment, everything else pauses. Someone looks for a knife. Someone insists on a smaller slice. Someone who said they were full changes their mind.

There is something generous about a thing made to be divided. Before a cake is cut, it is a centrepiece. Afterwards, it becomes a conversation: pass that plate, try this corner, save a little for later.

The occasion need not be impressive. A friend coming over is an occasion. So is getting through a difficult week. So is having the afternoon free and wanting to do something with it.

Perhaps that is the nicest thing about baking. The work happens quietly, but the result asks to be shared.