Family boundaries and celebrations: Why exclusion from a dinner plan led to a difficult decision regarding a birthday event

Thor’s growl deepened, vibrating through the concrete floor and up into Ethan’s boots. His chest heaved, his breathing frantic. His body trembled, not just with rage, but with the sheer, blinding terror of being separated again.

Ethan knelt beside him, his hand finding the thick fur of the dog’s neck. “It’s okay, boy,” he whispered, his voice cracking.continue reading …