When Maria planned a surprise party for her husband’s 40th birthday, she didn’t expect to find strangers walking through the door instead of him. The shocking mix-up, involving an unexpected Airbnb booking, turned into an unforgettable night filled with laughter and unexpected guests.

My husband’s 40th birthday was coming up, and I wanted to throw him a surprise party. To prepare for it, I told him I would be out of town on his birthday. We agreed to celebrate on another day instead.

On the evening before the big day, I pretended to pack my bags and leave for the airport. In reality, I stayed overnight at my friend Karen’s house.

“Are you sure this will work?” Karen asked, raising an eyebrow as I stuffed clothes into my suitcase.

“Absolutely,” I replied. “Tom thinks I’m going to visit my sister.”

Karen chuckled. “You’re a sneaky one, Maria.”

The next day, I got up early to make sure everything was perfect. Tom always came home from work around 6 pm, so I invited all of his friends and family over at 5. That way, we’d have time to decorate before he arrived.

By 4:45, people started arriving. His brother, Jim, was first.

“Hey, Maria! Need any help?” Jim asked, carrying a box of decorations.

“Sure, Jim. Can you start hanging these streamers?” I handed him a bundle of blue and gold streamers.

Next came Tom’s best friend, Dave, with his wife, Lisa.

“Wow, you’ve really outdone yourself, Maria,” Lisa said, admiring the decorations.

“Thanks, Lisa! Can you guys help with the balloons?” I handed them a bag of balloons.

Everyone pitched in. By 5:30, the living room looked amazing. Blue and gold streamers hung from the ceiling, and balloons were everywhere. A big banner that read “Happy 40th, Tom!” stretched across the wall.

At 5:45 p.m., I gathered everyone in the kitchen.

“Okay, everyone, Tom will be here soon. Let’s turn off the lights and hide,” I said, feeling the excitement build.

We all found spots behind the kitchen counter and other hiding places. My heart was racing as we waited in the dark. I held my breath when I heard the key turn in the lock.