The Loneliness of Meredith

Meredith is used to being alone. She hasn’t left her house for three years, doesn’t talk to her mother or older sister, and tries not to remember the past. Meredith works remotely. She orders everything she needs for delivery. She keeps the house spotless. She cooks delicious meals in large quantities. She reads, watches old movies, collects puzzles, and admires the cherry tree in the neighbor's yard. At Christmas, she decorates the tree and puts presents under it. Meredith doesn’t feel lonely. She has a friend, Sadie, who visits with her children and talks about her tumultuous personal life. There is a wonderful orange cat, Fred, who curls up comfortably on his owner's lap. There is even a psychologist who gives her strange "homework" once a week. Meredith has no intention of changing anything, as changes have never brought her happiness. But soon, people, plans, and hopes will enter her life, for which she will try to step out of the house.