I told myself I wasn’t going to cry. Not today. Not after everything that had already transpired. Not with all the mud caked to my boots and my stomach churning from the odor of the place. I’d signed the documents months ago—relinquished ownership under pressure I won’t detail now. It was supposed to be definitive. … Read more
Called Dangerous, Proved Loyal: Our Dog’s Daily Triumph
cordac
When we adopted Blu, the woman at the shelter gave us a long look and asked, “Are you certain about this? He’s a pit bull.” I nodded. Because I wasn’t seeking a status dog. I was seeking someone to protect my daughter in a world that never felt secure. Luna was three when we welcomed … Read more
Abandoned and Expecting: My Options Ran Out Just Before Baby Arrived
cordac
I don’t even know how I’m managing to stand right now. I’m thirty-nine weeks pregnant, and I’ve barely gotten any sleep in days. The boys are weary and bewildered, and I keep reassuring them that everything’s going to be alright, but I honestly don’t know if that’s the truth anymore. He left last Thursday. No … Read more
The Mystery of “Murphy”: A Patient’s Final Request
We didn’t think he’d last the night, his breathing so shallow. His oxygen levels were absolutely terrible, plummeting, and the coughing fits were growing relentlessly worse. The nurses strictly said to keep things quiet and calm in his room, but he kept mumbling one word, over and over: “Murphy… Murphy…” At first, we thought it … Read more
My Judgment and the Old Man’s Unforgettable Answer About His Dog
It was my regular jog along the park pathway, headphones engaged, thoughts meandering pleasantly. At that point, I observed him—an elderly gentleman with an extended white beard, slowly pulling a small conveyance behind him. Within it rested a canine—gray-faced, rigid, exhibiting minimal movement. Another, younger dog ambled gracefully alongside them, full of energy. Initially, I … Read more
“Except the Loser”: My Father’s Cruel Toast
I am Eliza Matthews, 32 years old. Despite building a successful career in finance, I have never been good enough for my father. The annual family reunion dinner was quickly approaching, and I dreaded it more than usual this year. I had bought him a luxury car as a peace offering, hoping things would finally … Read more