When I entered the shelter and saw him, I knew he was mine. An eye and paw were lost in this 4-month-old Great Pyrenees. After my parents’ vehicle accident, I was at my lowest point, grieving. I attempted suicide twice because I was so broken. His adoption was like bonding two souls—one with a missing portion and the other wanting to heal. We became close buddies after I called him Frankie.
Frankie was my refuge and lifesaver, not simply a pet. He filled my parents’ death void with unconditional affection and faithful company. Knowing he would always be there for me, I set up house cameras to check on him and make sure he had food and drink if I had to work late.
Frankie dominated my life. He enjoyed treats, belly rubs, and affection. I considered him my most significant “person”—not just a dog.
Leslie, my partner, knew about Frankie and our particular link from the start. She understood, and she and Frankie became close and trusted over three years. It was perfect until we discussed moving in together.
While looking at houses with kids, pools, and work studios one night, I joked that Frankie would be our practice child. Leslie chuckled, but then she astonished me by saying Frankie wouldn’t come. I thought she was joking, but her serious face proved otherwise.
The argument lasted hours. Frankie would remain my choice. I told Leslie, “No matter what, my dog is coming with me because he saved me.” I promised to never leave him. She left in angry, and we didn’t talk for two days.
I held steady despite missing her. Frankie helped me through tough times. I could never see giving him up for love. My dog symbolized my courage and rehabilitation and was a huge part of who I am.
Any future relationship would need Frankie, not just as an extra but as a vital component of my existence. My deep bond with him demonstrated our healing process. I wanted my fiancée to view Frankie as part of me, not a worry for our future.
I spent my days with Frankie while waiting for Leslie to contact me, and every interaction with him solidified my decision. I always saw how far we had come whether we went on walks, played outside, or relaxed on the couch. Frankie, with one eye and three paws, showed me love, devotion, and strength.
I was devastated when Leslie left. I kept my decision while worrying about losing her. Thankfully, Leslie agreed. Her call came after a week and she asked if we could stay together. I promised Frankie would always be with me, yet I missed her.
We felt like we had never fought when we had coffee. She came to my house for dinner and a movie after laughing and talking. The Frankie issue looked resolved, and we had a lovely evening. After a great week, we moved in together a month later.
Frankie was absent when I returned after settling into our new house. When Leslie arrived later, I was irritated since she wasn’t there either. I knew she was involved.
Les, where’s Frankie? I requested.
I assumed you’d find it easier not to say goodbye. The shelter has him. Sorry, John, but I want kids and can’t have such a big dog.”
“You know I value him! How could you?
“You think I’d let that dog around my kids? Choose me and our future or your ugly puppy!”
The end. Pack up and leave, I instructed her. Even though we lived together, everything in the house was in my name because I earned more. After packing, Leslie left, shocked and angry. She never called again.
I was devastated when Frankie was adopted after rushing to the shelter. I asked the worker for information, but privacy restrictions prevented her from doing so. She suggested Frankie’s new owner might be in a park after seeing my distress.
After waiting at that park for what seemed like forever, Olivia, Emma’s daughter, and Emma appeared. Emma was sweet, and her eyes had a sparkle I hadn’t seen since my life broke apart. Frankie ran to me with the same excitement and love that saved me.
Emma listened as I told her about Frankie, our friendship, and the painful events that brought us here. Olivia took consolation in Frankie after losing her father. Emma’s tale revealed Frankie’s impact again.
I offered to bring Frankie to Olivia every day to ease our pain. After this, Emma, Olivia, and I were inseparable with Frankie by our side. Everyday visits become dinners and activities. Our friendship deepened and healed us unexpectedly.
Emma and I married thereafter, celebrating our journey together. The event celebrated life, love, and fresh beginnings. Frankie wore our wedding bands on his collar, while Olivia, the flower girl, brought delight.
I thought about our extraordinary journey as I married Emma. Olivia, Frankie, and each other had brought us together and healed us. Frankie gladly joined us, and I realized that sometimes the best love tales emerge from unexpected places. Our wedding was a new beginning and a reminder that loss may help us find our purpose.
An unexpected guest upended a tranquil couple’s life.
Carl, a lawyer, lived a peaceful existence with his wife Emma and son Jake. Our home was full with love and laughter, and I put my family first.
Emma and I met in a little bookstore on a rainy afternoon. We fell in love and started a new life together despite her problematic past, involving a missing first husband.
One evening, Emma screamed, changing everything. Robert, Emma’s first husband, returned with a flower at our door. I ran to her side. We rediscovered old feelings and secrets after his sudden return.
Confusion, rage, and betrayal engulfed me. Emma battled with her history and present despite Robert’s explanations. Our home became strained with unspoken fears.
Emma joined me and our family despite the obstacles. Robert left, allowing us to rebuild. These hardships strengthened our love and commitment, teaching us trust and being together during tough times.
Our love survived numerous tests, strengthening our relationships. The memories of those hard moments remind us of our strength and love.
This story is based on real persons and events but altered for privacy and storyline. Coincidences with real individuals or events are unintentional.