Mark’s SUV.
Sarah’s sedan.
Jason’s truck.
Confused and shaking, I followed the officer inside.
The doors opened.
The lights flicked on.
“HAPPY—” Jason began shouting before stopping abruptly when he saw my face.
Decorations filled the room. Balloons. Streamers. A banner that read:
“HAPPY 60TH MOM.”
Five of my children stood there looking nervous and guilty.
“So… you were all here,” I said quietly.
Mark stepped forward quickly.
“Mom, wait. It was supposed to be a surprise.”
“I waited four hours,” I said. “Four hours.”
Then the fear returned.
“Where is Grant?”
They exchanged worried glances.
“He was supposed to pick you up,” Jason said. “He said he’d bring you here.”
Just then another police car pulled into the lot.
Moments later the door opened.
Grant walked in.
Wearing a police uniform.
The room fell silent.
“You’re a cop?” Mark blurted.
Grant raised his hands nervously.
“Before anyone kills me… happy birthday, Mom.”
My voice trembled with anger and relief.
“You scared me half to death.”
He looked ashamed.
“I’m sorry. I wanted to surprise you. I didn’t tell anyone I joined the academy because I didn’t want people thinking I’d fail.”
His voice softened.
“I just wanted you to be proud of me.”
