He took a while to respond. And then, softly, “Yes, ma’am.” My heart twitched. “Are they in danger?””No.”Why am I in a police car, then? He let out a breath as if he was trying to avoid saying something inappropriate. “Just hold on.” I could see movement through the window.
The policeman entered a parking lot. I recognized a community center. The one where I used to support my children by sitting on hard bleachers.
There were cars parked in front. vehicles I was familiar with. Mark’s SUV. Sarah’s car. Jason’s vehicle. My mouth became parched. “What is this?” After parking, the police came over to open my door. He extended a helping hand. Ignoring it, with unsteady legs, I climbed out alone. He led the way to the door. I could see movement through the window. Caleb became pale. I paused. “If this is some kind of joke.”It’s not. My chest constricted. Anger and hope were intertwined. He pulled the door open. The lights suddenly came on.Jason began, “HAPPY,” but he paused upon seeing my face.
My stomach turned as I saw how quickly Mark’s face took on a guilty expression. Sarah’s face hardened into sheer panic. Eliza’s mouth was shut. Caleb became pale.I waited for four hours. The banner said. Balloons: “HAPPY 60TH, MOM.” streamers. A cake that appeared pricey. Five of my kids were standing there, perhaps anticipating the punchline. I remained motionless. Then I spoke in a harsh little voice. “So you were all here.” Mark moved quickly forward. “Mom, wait.”I said, “I waited for four hours. “Four.” “We weren’t ignoring you.” shouted Jason.”Where is Grant?” Eliza’s gaze grew wide. “We thought…”
“Why is there a cop with you?” yelled Sarah. What took place? I glanced at each individual.I said, “I sat at that table by myself.” “Like an idiot.”
Mark’s face fell flat. We wanted to keep it a secret, Mom. Grant claimed to be in charge of the pickup portion. My heart began to race once more. I raised my voice once more and turned back to the cop.”Where is Grant?” I inquired.He hasn’t arrived yet. Jason scowled. “He promised to arrive by seven o’clock. He was meant to bring you.”
Sarah swung her head in Mark’s direction. “He’s late.” Mark’s jaw clenched as he examined his phone. “He’s not answering.” My voice rose once again as I turned back to the officer. “My son left me a note, which you gave me. I came here because of you. “Where is he?” A second police cruiser arrived at the scene.
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