The morning began like any other, soft sunlight slipping through the leaves and warming the quiet home. Mom sat resting near the window, one hand gently placed on her round belly, feeling the slow, comforting movements of the new life growing inside her. Pregnancy had made her more tired these days, but it had also filled her heart with a deep, glowing joy. What she did not know was that this ordinary morning was about to become one of the most unforgettable days of her life.
CUTIS woke up early, much earlier than usual. He stretched, looked around carefully, and then quietly slipped out to meet Yen Nhi. Today was not just any day—it was Mom’s birthday. More than that, it was her birthday while she was carrying a new baby, making it extra special. CUTIS and Yen Nhi had been whispering and planning for days, making sure Mom wouldn’t suspect a thing.
Yen Nhi was already waiting, eyes sparkling with excitement. She held a small basket filled with fruits, flowers, and little handmade decorations. “Are you ready?” she whispered. CUTIS nodded seriously, though his tail flicked with excitement. This was their first time planning something so big on their own, and they wanted everything to be perfect.
They knew Mom had been through a lot lately. Pregnancy was not easy. Some days she felt strong and hopeful; other days she felt tired and worried about the future. CUTIS had noticed how Mom often smiled even when she was exhausted, pretending she was fine so no one would worry. That was why this surprise meant so much to him. He wanted to give her a moment where she could forget all her worries and feel only happiness.
Their plan was simple but full of love. First, they would decorate the home while Mom rested. Then, they would prepare her favorite foods—fresh fruits, sweet treats, and warm herbal drinks that were good for her and the baby. Finally, they would reveal everything together, shouting “Happy Birthday!” in the most joyful way they could.
They moved quietly, careful not to make noise. CUTIS climbed up to hang colorful leaves and flowers along the walls, while Yen Nhi arranged fruits into beautiful shapes. Every detail mattered. Even though the decorations were simple, they were filled with care. CUTIS placed a small handmade crown made of woven grass and flowers on the table. “This is for Mom,” he whispered proudly.
As they worked, memories filled CUTIS’s mind. He remembered how Mom had always protected him, how she had hugged him when he was scared, and how she had taught him to be kind and brave. Now, she was preparing to welcome another baby into the family, and CUTIS felt a mix of excitement and responsibility. He wanted to show her that she was not alone, that her love had shaped them all.
Time passed quickly. Soon, the home looked completely different—bright, warm, and full of life. Yen Nhi stepped back and smiled. “She’s going to cry,” she said softly. CUTIS laughed quietly. “Happy tears,” he replied.
Just then, they heard footsteps. Mom was waking up from her rest. Panic flashed across CUTIS’s face for a second, but Yen Nhi squeezed his hand. “It’s time,” she whispered.
Mom slowly walked toward the main room, expecting nothing more than another calm day. The moment she stepped inside, CUTIS and Yen Nhi jumped out together.
“Happy Birthday, Mom!” 🎉💕
The room burst with color and joy. For a moment, Mom froze, her eyes wide with surprise. Then she looked around—at the decorations, the food, the smiling faces—and her hands flew to her mouth. Tears filled her eyes instantly.
“Oh… you did all this for me?” she asked, her voice trembling.
CUTIS ran to her side and hugged her gently, careful of her belly. “Yes, Mom. We wanted you to be happy,” he said. Yen Nhi joined them, placing a flower crown softly on Mom’s head.
Mom could not hold back her tears. They flowed freely, but her smile was brighter than ever. “I didn’t expect anything,” she said, laughing and crying at the same time. “This is the best gift I could ever receive.”
She sat down slowly, still holding CUTIS and Yen Nhi close. Her heart felt full—so full it almost hurt. Pregnancy hormones made her emotions stronger, but this happiness was pure and overwhelming. She felt loved, appreciated, and safe.
They shared the food together, laughing and talking. CUTIS proudly explained how they had planned everything in secret. Yen Nhi added little details about how careful they had been not to wake her. Mom listened, her eyes shining with pride.
“You know,” she said softly, placing a hand on her belly, “your little brother or sister is very lucky. They are coming into a family full of love.”
CUTIS looked at her belly with wonder. He gently touched it, feeling a small movement. “I’ll protect them,” he said seriously. Mom smiled and kissed his forehead. “I know you will.”
As the day went on, the atmosphere remained warm and joyful. They took photos, told stories, and rested together. For once, Mom did not feel tired or worried. She felt strong, supported, and deeply loved.
As the sun began to set, painting the sky with soft orange and pink colors, Mom sat quietly, watching CUTIS and Yen Nhi clean up. Her heart was calm. This birthday was not about gifts or celebrations—it was about family, love, and the reassurance that she was never alone.
She thought about the future, about the baby she would soon hold in her arms, and about the children who were already growing up so fast. Tears returned to her eyes, but this time they were gentle and peaceful.
“Thank you,” she said softly, pulling CUTIS and Yen Nhi into one last hug. “You made this pregnant Mom the happiest in the world.”
CUTIS smiled, feeling proud and warm inside. Yen Nhi leaned her head on Mom’s shoulder. In that moment, everything felt perfect.
This secret birthday plan was more than a surprise—it was a promise. A promise of love, unity, and happiness, no matter what challenges lay ahead.
And as the night settled in, one thing was certain: this birthday would forever live in Mom’s heart as the day she truly felt how deeply she was loved. 💕🎂
