I never got a chance
to speak to you
about your dog’s death.

I’m sorry your dog’s dead.

I imagine you two were close
what with you owning him
sheltering him
walking him
washing him
getting him dewormed as necessary…
I’m sure all those investments
feel like a waste
right about now.
Must be rough.

But, hey!
You’ve got your apartment back,
right?
There’s freedom
and cleanliness
and so much less hair
all up in everything.
That’s gotta be worth something
– regardless of the emotional devastation
and whatnot.

But still.
Gotta hurt.
So: sorry.

What?
Not dog.
Dad?
Oof.

I stand by my statements.