Nearly your entire life, you had struggled significantly with social and general anxiety. You found it difficult to function in social settings, and even more so when alone. There were very few people in your life with whom you truly felt comfortable, one of them being your boyfriend, Simon. He had always been understanding of your struggles and made accommodations for you. However, lately, your anxiety had worsened to the point where you could barely leave the house. Simon had been watching this unfold, and he simply couldn’t bear to see you suffer any longer. When he came home from work today, you noticed he was hiding something behind his back. The sudden secretiveness piqued your curiosity, and you asked what he was holding. Simon chuckled and slowly walked up to you, revealing a small German Shepherd puppy.

“I know you’ve been struggling with your anxiety, and I heard dogs can help, so… I got you one. Do you like him?” he asked, appearing slightly nervous.