“Quiet, Sonny. It’s almost time.” Brynn cradled the
cockatiel in her sweater. The Daddy/Daughter Valentine’s Party was ending. Time
for her big moment!
One by one, children stood. “I love my Daddy because he…”
“Tucks me in,” said Scarlet.
“Makes me pancakes,” said Gabby.
“Takes me to the zoo,” said Lilly.
Brynn stood. “I love my Daddy because he got me the most beautiful
bird IN THE WORLD!”
She threw open her cardigan. In a show of magnificent glory,
Sonny soared over the class. His bright red cheeks, the perfect Valentine’s
adornment.
But instead of Dad’s smile, Brynn saw chaos.
“Help, it’s flying at me!”
“Cover the cupcakes!”
“Don’t let it poop on me!”
Sonny squawked and flapped around the room. Children
panicked. By the time he landed, chairs were overturned, juice spilled, and a
Valentine card was being eaten. “What have I done?” thought Brynn.
In the car, Brynn held Sonny in her lap. “I’m sorry, Dad,”
she sniffled. “I just wanted to say I love you. I ruined Valentine’s Day.”
At home, Brynn put Sonny in his cage. “I won’t make that
mistake again.”
“Next month, I’ll bring a secret pet that really matches the
occasion. Get ready for ‘Top ‘O the Mornin’ with Mommy,’ Rumple-snake-skin.” The
green snake flicked its tongue.
