The Longest Morning

The Longest Morning

We had planned the day like a military exercise. I hated rising early but for once, my duty and pleasure would conjoin like twins.

On hearing the excited voices of our boys aged nine and four, I rushed to the garage. Dressing as fast as I could in red robe, wig, and carrying a sack, I ran to the front door and hammered loudly.

I will never forget the magic in their eyes.

Later, my eldest whispered in my ear.

“I thought it was you, dad, I saw the scar on your hand. I won’t tell Tommy; he still believes.”