In a moment marked by domestic exasperation yet tethered to his unwavering dedication to work, Harold turned to his trusty dog, his loyal companion, and exclaimed, “Brightside, if you could lend a paw and take out the trash, I would be forever grateful.” This was not a serious request but was born of frustration as Harold attended to the call.…
A new apartment. I had searched for almost two months to find my new home. After living with Alice for almost two years, it was time to be on my own. I signed the agreement and cut a check in the morning before I headed for work. I felt great in the first hours at my desk. I congratulated myself on reaching another tier of independence. I was twenty-five, living away from my parents for over three years now, and moving upward through three promotions at a company I had high hopes for. I didn’t have a boyfriend since my break with Greg at the beginning of summer, but I felt this move would motivate me to discover someone new and take a sabbatical from the many nights of small wine parties with my gal pals.…