When I saw the balloons, my heart swelled with joy and anticipation. The nursery at home and the car were overflowing with them, creating an atmosphere of celebration. The nursery itself was spotless, ready to welcome our new family member. As we prepared for Suzie’s return, her favorite songs played softly in the background—a carefully curated mix that added to the warmth of the moment.
Suzie had been through so much during her pregnancy, and I was determined to make her homecoming unforgettable. Every detail was planned to show my love and appreciation for her strength. But as I walked into her hospital room, my excitement turned to confusion, then dread.
The room was eerily quiet. My twin girls, Emily and Grace, were peacefully sleeping in their bassinets, but Suzie was nowhere to be found. A single piece of paper lay on the bedside table, its presence unnerving in the silence.
With trembling hands, I picked it up, immediately recognizing Suzie’s handwriting. Her words, though legible, were chillingly cryptic:
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