Hedonism (noun): pursuit of pleasure

“You shouldn’t have!”

The man’s eyes widened at the sight of the enormous golden gift box clutched in his wife’s arms. It was nearly as big as she was, with a vibrant red ribbon twined in a beautiful bow and flowing down its sides. From the half-shy, half-excited look on her face, he could tell that she was worried—about whether or not he’d like it, and about the sheer cost of something of that size.

His wife peered at him joyfully over the ribbon. “I know you’re usually against spending, but this is a special occasion! You’ve worked so hard this year, I think you definitely deserve it. I love you, honey.”

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“I love you, too. And thank you…” He trailed off before he could cry, nudging away the box to give her a big hug.

Until the box nudged back.

“What in the…”

Slowly, the ribbon unfurled like a blooming flower, and the lid burst open to reveal—

A wet, sloppy tongue.

And a pair of chocolate eyes. Glowing blond fur. Neatly trimmed paws. Floppy ears. A lovely nose, already sniffing at the cuffs of his shirt.

“A golden retriever!” He exclaimed, unable to hold back the feeling swelling in his chest—the cold, icy horror. The man lifted his head just in time to see his wife’s large, expectant smile.

We won’t be able to afford caring for it.

He wanted to say—but couldn’t.