I did, but the thing I needed was not something anyone could bring.

They offered meals, company, help with calls.

I accepted some offers and refused others without a consistent reason.

One afternoon, I wanted someone in the house.

That evening, another voice in the living room felt unbearable.

I did not understand my own changes quickly enough to explain them politely.

The people who knew me well did not require me to.

Patrick’s chair remained beside the window.