After months of business trips, I finally returned home on Christmas Eve, planning to surprise my family. But when I saw my sons sitting in the car, bundled in coats, they told me their mom was “busy with some man” inside. My heart sank as dark thoughts raced through my mind.
As I approached the house, I noticed the garage door was slightly open, a rare thing for Sarah. And there, in the car, sat Tommy and Jake, looking nervous.
“What are you doing out here?” I demanded.
“Mom said we had to stay out here,” Jake explained, “she’s busy with some man.”
My stomach churned. Had Sarah been unfaithful? The thought felt impossible but couldn’t be ignored. I ushered the boys inside, my mind whirling with possibilities.
When we entered the house, it was dark, except for a faint light in the living room. I heard muffled voices—Sarah’s familiar laugh, mixed with a man’s deep chuckle. I steeled myself and opened the door.
“SURPRISE!”
The room erupted with cheers. Family and friends filled the living room, a “Welcome Home” banner stretched across the fireplace, and the scent of mulled cider and sugar cookies filled the air. Sarah rushed over, grinning. “Got you!”
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