When the plane landed earlier than planned, I decided not to tell anyone.
I wanted to surprise Bennett.
I imagined entering the house and hearing him shout my name. I pictured him racing toward me in his socks, probably knocking something over before throwing himself into my arms.
Lauren would roll her eyes, and I would laugh while Bennett tried to climb onto me even though he had become too large to carry comfortably.
The taxi dropped me off shortly after four in the afternoon.
Lauren’s car sat in the driveway exactly where I expected. The curtains were open, although I saw no movement inside.
I quietly pulled my suitcase along the path, planning to unlock the door, sneak into the living room, and call Bennett’s name.
I never had the opportunity.
The front door flew open before I reached for my keys.
Bennett wrapped both arms tightly around my waist.
“Mom!”
