Guys, sometimes I felt utterly helpless. I didn’t respond to Michael. Instead, I vented on Twitter using my alternate account, “Goodbye, will we meet again, doggy? When we meet again, be happy, okay? Doggy, you have to be happy. You have to be happy, okay?
“Your world won’t have me in it anymore. It’s okay; be happy. Doggy, my doggy, how will I live without you? Doggy, take me with you, doggy!”
After my rant, I felt a surge of clarity and resolve.
For the twelfth time, I put on my catfish mask like a warrior donning armor. I gained newfound courage.
I approached Michael’s door once more.
As I sat outside, talking to my dog, I felt something hard under the doormat.
OMG, I found a key!
I inserted the key, turned it, and the door opened.
Rushing in, I finally saw my long-missed Naughty. Despite my mask, Naughty recognized me and excitedly pawed at my leg.
The pain was sharp; my leg felt like it was on fire.
This little guy’s strength was still immense, like a bull.
Though barely able to stand still, I felt a surge of emotion from this familiar force.
Naughty was still so robust!
Struggling against Naughty’s strong pushes, I tried to lift him and run. But I was shocked by his weight.