Best Birthday Ever

EZEKIEL

I never imagined coming home to this—a birthday celebration in my own house, with my kids smiling up at me.

I stood in the middle of the living room as I was still in shock from the surprise. My mind was struggling to catch up with what was happening.

I turned to Vivienne, who was standing nearby with a soft smile on her face.

"Did you prepare all of this?" I asked.

To be honest, I had forgotten it was my birthday today. The day had been long, filled with work and thoughts of the kids, and the date had slipped my mind completely.

Vivienne’s smile widened.

"The kids helped me and Brooks," she said simply. Her eyes were warm as she looked at me, and for a moment, the tension of the past few days seemed to melt away.

Before I could say anything else, Vera tugged at my sleeve.

"Dad, make a wish and blow the candles!" she insisted.

I looked down at her and gave her a smile.

“Alright, baby.”

There were so many things I could wish for, but as I looked at my daughter’s eager face