10/02/2025
My 6-year-old son:“Daddy, can we invite my bedtime man to my birthday party?”
Me:“Your… bedtime man?”
My son:Yeah! He comes when you’re at work. He tucks me in and sings me songs. Mommy gives him tea.”
Me (heart skipping a beat):“Sweetie… I’m the one who tucks you in.”
My son:No! He’s taller. He wears your work shirt. He says I’m his speciazl boy. Mommy told me not to tell you because it’s our secret.”
I tried to laugh it off, but my hands wouldn’t stop shaking. That night, I whispered to my son: “Okay… invite him to your party. Don’t tell Mommy. Don’t tell him I’ll be home. It’s a game, okay?”
All week, I decorated the living room with balloons, a big “HAPPY BIRTHDAY” banner, and my fake smile.
At 4:11 p.m. on Saturday, a knock rattled the door. I opened it.
Standing there was a man
