As I took the photo, Caleb leaned down and kissed Selena deeply. Theo grinned at me over his shoulder.
A perfect family. The family I could never give them.
"Aunt Emma," Theo suddenly called out. "I want to apologize for earlier."
The room watched as he approached me, holding a wrapped box.
"I'm sorry about yesterday," he said, just loud enough for everyone to hear. "I got you something."
He held out a small box wrapped in shiny paper. With trembling fingers, I lifted the lid. A scream escaped me as I dropped the box, its contents spilling across the patio. A dead rat tumbled out, followed by a thick red liquid that splashed across my clothes.
"Oops," Theo giggled. "I thought you'd like a new pet since your camera's broken."
The crowd gasped as the blood-like substance soaked through my white dress.
"Theo!" Caleb said halfheartedly. "That's not appropriate."
But Selena was already laughing. "Boys will be boys," she said, ruffling Theo's hair proudly.
Margaret quickly moved the focus back to the celebration. "Let's make a wish, Theo!"
The entire room watched as Theo closed his eyes.