Ответ: It was getting dark and late, and my friends still hadn't arrived. A knot of worry tightened in my stomach as I peered out the window, but all I saw was the empty street. Where could they be? I started to imagine all sorts of scenarios, none of them good. Just as I was about to call their parents, a rustling sound from the bushes outside caught my attention. I tiptoed to the window again. And there they were! My friends, peeking out from behind the overgrown lilac bush, clutching a large, brightly wrapped box with my name scrawled across it. They all jumped out, shouting "Surprise!" with mischievous grins. It turned out they had secretly planned a surprise birthday party for me. Overwhelmed with happiness and gratitude, I couldn't stop smiling. We spent the rest of the evening celebrating, laughing, and making memories together. It was the best birthday surprise ever.