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Chapter 3
Today was the day. All of the decorations, banners and balloons were hung up and the
finishing touches on the cake were made. The presents were laid out on the table in all shapes
and sizes; from a bowl of treats to a squishy new pillow, it was obvious Terry was going to
be spoiled. It couldn’t be more perfect. The children waited anxiously for the car to bring
Terry.
“Children, I know this is an exciting day for you all, but it is time for you to hide, be as silent
as you can so we don’t ruin the surprise. The driver has just let me know that Terry is close.”
said Miss Lotus.
The children all got into their hiding spots and waited for the special moment. They could
hear the car tyres crunching in the gravel down the dirt track road outside. The entire room
was buzzing with excitement, even in the silence. The car screeched to a halt outside and the
engine ceased to rumble, followed by the sound of a car door opening and shutting. Sounds
of footsteps approached the room, getting louder and louder by the second. The door creaked
open… Riley whispered “3,2,1…”
“Surprise!” Everyone jumped up and shouted!
Terry stood in the doorway startled, his tail wagging vigorously. The children all gathered
around Terry. This was the moment they had rehearsed for.
The day went by quickly with pin the tail on the tiger, pass the parcel and Simon says. When
the sun was about to set Terry and the children went down to the dam for an afternoon swim
whilst Miss Lotus set up the school for the night time activities.