I wanted my husband’s fortieth birthday to feel unforgettable in the best possible way. Forty is one of those milestones that deserves more than a cake and a quiet dinner, especially for someone like Tom, who always put everyone else first and rarely asked for anything. I spent weeks planning every detail, carefully weaving together secrecy and excitement, convinced I was orchestrating the perfect surprise. To make it work, I told Tom I’d be out of town visiting my sister on his birthday. We agreed we’d celebrate properly another time. I sold the lie well—packed a suitcase, kissed him goodbye,...
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