It’s the third week of November, and I’m scrambling to get everything done around the house. Calvin and Braeden will be here soon.
“What else do you need us to do?” Reuben asks.
I look around the open living room and kitchen. The black balloons are in place, floating on the ceiling like storm clouds, and the coffin cake is sitting in the center of the kitchen table. I used leftover Halloween decorations to create a deathly vibe.
“I think we’re good. The food’s here, we have drinks, and all the decorating is done.”
My house is packed with our friends. Kids are running all over the place, except for the older teens. I invited a few of Calvin’s co-workers, and his PA, Olivia, too.
Travis leans against the counter, popping some peanuts into his mouth. “Does he know you planned a surprise party? Has he figured it out?”
“I don’t think so. You all parked far enough away, so I don’t think he’s got a clue.”
Paul is sitting in the dining room with his sleeping toddler snoozing in his arms, keeping a watch out for Calvin.
“Do you think he’ll like it?” I ask my friends. “Is it too much? He won’t get offended, right?”
“Relax,” Edmundosays, clapping me on the shoulder. “You’re overthinking it. This is right up Cal’s alley. He takes nothing seriously.”
Slade steps up to me with a beer in his hand and lifts the sleeve of my polo. “How’s the tat? It looks like it’s healing fine.”
“Good, but remind me never to get another. That hurt like hell. I can’t believe I let you talk me into getting one.”
“Famous last words, my friend. Before you know it, you’ll have full tattoo sleeves like me.”
I roll my eyes. “Not a chance. I’m pretty sure I’ll die first. Way too much pain. I’m a wimp when it comes to needles.”
He chuckles and sips his beer. “You are not. I mean, you didn’t even pass out or throw up. That’s pretty good.”
My jaw drops. “People have passed out or thrown up?”
“Yep.”
“I’m definitely never getting another.”
“At least you didn’t get his name tatted on your butt,” Edmundo says.
I wince. “People do that?”
“You’d be surprised by what people get tatted on their bodies,” Slade explains. “It’s up to responsible artists like myself to gently nudge them in a different direction.”
“He’s coming!” Paul yells out.
My stomach dips, and my heart races. I hope Calvin likes what we’ve done today… and surprise parties.
“Okay, everyone hide!” I yell.
Kids and adults scramble throughout the house, ducking behind furniture and doors.
Calvin rings the doorbell, and I scan the area to make sure everyone is out of sight.
I open the door and smile. “There’s the birthday boy!” I say.
He scowls and points.“I’m trying to forget I’ve turned forty today, thank you very much. I just want to eat, snuggle, kiss, go to bed, and pretend birthdays don’t exist.”
I snort a laugh and point at Calvin with my thumb as I look at Braeden. “Can you believe this guy? Drama queen.”
Braeden giggles and nods. “I love birthdays.”
