Because it was Yusuf's birthday, there was an unusual excitement quietly filling the entire house. Yet, none of it was shown outwardly. Yugh, his father, and his mother all behaved as if the day had completely slipped their minds. Their expressions were calm, their routines unchanged, and not a single birthday wish was spoken aloud.
But the truth was far from that. 🤫
Every one of them was acting according to a carefully planned script. Still, when Yusuf left the house that morning for work, his face was not as cheerful as usual. A quiet sadness lingered in his eyes, as he assumed that his own family had forgotten his birthday. Carrying that disappointment in his heart, he stepped out for the day.
The moment he left, the house came alive.
The family immediately began preparing for the surprise. His mother started baking the cake with care and love, humming softly to herself as she worked. His father headed to the supermarket to buy the remaining essentials. Yugh took charge of decorating, inflating the balloons he had bought earlier and hanging them around the house, scattering a few across the floor to add a playful touch. 🎈
As evening slowly approached, Yugh's mother picked fresh flowers from the garden and placed them around the living room. The fragrance filled the space, and with it came memories of Zahra, making her pause for a brief, silent moment.
When it was almost time for Yusuf to return home, the lights were switched off. The family hid around the living room, hearts racing with anticipation. 🎉
The instant Yusuf opened the door and stepped inside, all three of them jumped out, shouting, "Surprise!"
Startled and shocked, Yusuf froze for a second. Then his eyes widened as he took in the beautiful decorations glowing softly in the dim light. A smile slowly spread across his face.
"So… you didn't forget after all?" he asked, laughing. 😊
"Would I ever forget my son?" his mother said warmly.
"And I didn't forget my sweet little brother either," Yugh added with a grin.ðŸ¤
Yusuf blew out the candles on the cake, and soon the four of them were laughing together, cutting the cake, taking photos, and filling the house with joy,turning the day into a memory Yusuf would never forget. 🎂