He asked if she would be there to receive it.
Clare, still with that carefree tone, replied that she would be going out. early and spending the day with her sisters, since it was Saturday and they had planned to go shopping and have lunch together.
Jack pretended to hesitate for a few seconds and then asked if she could be home around 8:00 to make sure the package was received. Clare agreed without thinking much, said she would figure it out and would be back by then.
Jack thanked her and hung up.
As soon as the call ended, he smiled faintly and stood up. Now that he knew the exact time the house would be empty, he set in motion the plan he had been devising since early that morning.
The first call was to Clare’s parents. He told them he had prepared a surprise tribute for her at home, something intimate but very special.
He mentioned a celebration for her dedication to volunteering, referring to a social project Clare had participated in years earlier.
It had only been once, when she helped organize a clothing drive during a harsh winter, but it sounded noble enough to convince anyone.
Her mother was touched by the gesture. Her father, more reserved, thanked him for the invitation and said they would be there.
Jack kept his voice steady and calm, as if nothing were out of place. The more acceptance he received from the guests, the stronger his conviction became.
He also called Clare’s two sisters, Sarah and Michelle. He repeated the same story, using words that matched the image everyone had of the helpful daughter, always involved in good causes. Both were moved. They said they would buy something nice for the occasion.
Then came her friends—Amanda, Lisa, and Rachel. Jack knew exactly whom to invite, all those people Clare cared about and felt comfortable with.
He did everything with precision.
