Catch of the Day

When an eighty-five pound mammal licks your tears away, then tries to sit on your lap, it's hard to feel sad.

It's safe to be in love with someone you know you'll never have. Nothing is really risked when you know you can't lose. He was a distraction, an excuse, and a friend. No more, no less.

I fold my laundry discretely, putting my jeans and tops on anything I don’t want the guys to see. I sneak a look at Malone every once in a while, and each time I do, he seems to know. Blushing becomes my permanent facial state. I pretend to watch the game, though the Sox could have all been murdered and left disemboweled on the field for all the attention I truly pay.

I stand up, trying to shake myself mentally. Get over him, Maggie, I instruct myself. I need to stop. I really do. I want to. I’m going to. I sound like a drug addict. Perhaps there’s a twelve-step program for me. Priest Lovers Anonymous.

Malone is surly, scary and ugly,” I say. “So I’m gonna pass on him, if you don’t mind.” “I don’t know,” Chantal says. She looks past me. “What do you say, Malone? Want to go out with Maggie?

Mrs. Plutarski is such a pill to me. You’d think I routinely crapped on the altar, the way she treats me.