I never expected to find a positive pregnancy test in a package meant for my father, nor a note signed “darling.” Was my dad cheating on my mom? I’d always believed they had the perfect marriage.

At 18, I moved out, and when my dad called to say he’d be in the city for work, I couldn’t wait to see him. When I arrived at his hotel, he greeted me with a warm hug, and we spent time catching up.

Then a package arrived. Inside was a pregnancy test and a note saying, “My congratulations, darling!” My mind raced—was my dad having an affair?

Later, I went to the café listed in the note, preparing to confront him. But when he arrived, roses in hand, I watched in shock as my mom walked in. They shared a joyful reunion, and my dad kissed her pregnant belly.

It turned out my dad wasn’t cheating; they were expecting a baby together. I’d spent hours fearing the worst for nothing.

Six months later, at my mom’s baby shower, I shared the video of the moment I thought my dad was having an affair. Everyone laughed, especially my dad, who jokingly said, “Well, that’s one way to get your heart rate up.” It was a funny story that we’d tell for years.