When Liam plans a surprise birthday party for his wife, Lora, he gets the biggest shock when she brings over an uninvited guest—a man who has been absent from Lora’s life for years. Why is he here, and what does he want? My wife loves surprises. Every year for her birthday or Valentine’s Day, I try to surprise her because I know how much it means to her. Her eyes light up like a child’s, making every special occasion an opportunity for something extraordinary.“I love how well you know me, Liam,” she would say. “You always get it right!” “You’re worth it all, Lora,” I said.

So, this year for her birthday, I planned a surprise that I hoped would be unforgettable. Pretending to be away on a business trip, I called her the day before her birthday to say that I’d be home late.“You’re not coming back tomorrow?” Lora’s voice carried disappointment that broke my heart. “I’m so sorry, love,” I said, laying on the regret. “Work got hectic, but I’ll make it up to you. How about a spa weekend when I’m back?” There was a pause, then Lora let out a resigned sigh.“Fine, but you owe me big time, Liam,” she said in a huff. “Oh, darling,” I assured her, smiling at the thought of her reaction to the real surprise.