A Simple Life Part 2

"There is an interesting secret to the old house next door"

I invited Linda over for coffee the following morning, and we spent a pleasant hour getting to know each other. She excused herself and left to get started on her remodeling. I had offered Steve’s and my services and she...

A Simple Life Part 1

"You don't have to be well off to have a good life"

Steve and I have been together since elementary school. We grew up next door to each other and were inseparable. Toys were rare and precious, and there was no money for allowances or entertainment. We had to create our own,...

I’m Done Part 4

"Dan is done with a lot of things, but is just getting started on some others"

As the days passed, we became even closer. We talked through the individual hells that we had each survived and fell ever deeper in love.Bella had reconnected with Marcy when Marcy started her search for me, and they continued to...

I’m Done Part 3

"Bella and Penny have waited long enough"

We moved at a snail’s pace. We were wary and careful friends, feeling our way through our own emotional minefields. I think any one of us left alone would have sunk into a well of depression and given up on...

I’m Done Part 2

"A neighbor in need and a revelation Dan isn’t prepared for"

The days went by, and I got her settled at home. I took the back off the recliner so I could move the heavy ass thing and relocated it to her bedroom. I put it back together, and that’s where...

Weather Delay Part 2

"Helping out in the kitchen"

...She looked at me speculatively. “Permission for what, dear?”“For anything you want to do with Bill. He wants you, and you know it. I think you want him too. If you’re interested, then have fun. I’m fine with whatever you...

Weather Delay Part 1

"Making the best of being stranded with strangers"

I knew better, but she wouldn’t listen. My wife Mandy wanted to be home and she wasn’t waiting, regardless of the weather. I get it; I really do. She’d accompanied me on this alleged two-day work trip, and it had...