[ WP ] Everyone dies on their birthday , but no one knows at which age it will occur .

My boss let me go early. He gripped my shoulder firmly and wished me a safe birthday, reminding me to arrive at work on time the day immediately following. Several of my coworkers, quiet and solemn, shook my hand as I made my way out. I gave everyone the biggest smiles of confidence I could manage. Tomorrow was really just another day, I reminded myself. 
 
 I drove home, more absent minded than usual. I cleaned out the kitchen drawers, collecting every knife, fork, and sharp object within site. I stored these objects in a metal box in the garage under lock and key. I studied each room in my house, searching for and rounding up potential hazards. I locked each room individually save for the bedroom, which was where I spent every birthday. 
 
 As they did every year, a team of electricians, plumbers, contractors, and home inspectors had come by recently to take a look at the wiring, check for potential gas and water leaks, ensure that all appliances were in prime working condition, and otherwise reaffirm that the home was safe and habitable. The police had already been informed that this home would be under death watch starting several hours from now. Video surveillance connectivity was previously confirmed and recording would be commencing shortly. 
 
 After checking off a very long list of preparations, I let out a soft sigh and slid down into the cushions of the living room couch, my knees shaking slightly. The front door creaked open then to reveal Sarah, home from work, presenting me with troubled eyes and take out for two. She locked the door gently behind her and set the food on the coffee table, kissing the top of my head before taking a seat next to me. We embraced for a few long minutes, silent and unmoving. 
 
 Finally, Sarah spoke. `` I have some amazing plans for your after-birthday. I think you'll be really excited.'' I smiled softly and pulled her close to me again, giving her a tight squeeze. I imagined holding her forever and never letting go. I did not want to think about the possibility of not being able to hold her again. 
 
 `` I love you,'' I whispered. 
 
 She returned the squeeze. `` I love you, too,'' she said after a pause. When she let go, she pointed to the food in front of me. `` Now eat,'' she commanded, trying unsuccessfully to wipe away tears before I could glimpse them. `` I got you your favorite. I want you to eat every last bite since you ca n't eat tomorrow.'' 
 
 She was right. I could choke tomorrow. I could die tomorrow. I stared at the take out box on the coffee table in front of me and grappled with the idea that the contents inside could become my last meal. For just that moment, I permitted myself to indulge in speculatory and gruesome scenes of death, wondering if I might eventually end up in one of them. `` Tomorrow is really just another day,'' I reminded Sarah as I stood up to grab two forks from the garage.
