Aftr a bad childhood he wants to get even with others. His life progresses over five chapters. He does have a change of heart. Could go in many categories.
The old man had searched in vain for a special "something" that had eluded him for most of his life. Now, at the end, that most special of all human experiences was finally offered to him. Not all the pertinent tags have been displayed. To do so would take away from the impact of the story.
Dave has been on his own since his divorce, and since then he has many solitary Christmas's. A young girl in need provides him the means for him to enjoy this Christmas season by helping someone. It is all in the spirit of giving and ultimately receiving. A seasonal read, enjoy.
I was a lonely, horny exchange student. Then I met Maria Luisa. We each had secrets we weren't talking about, and our romance was bittersweet. A note on the incest code: the contact is very light, just kissing, and it takes place offstage, but it's important to the story. If any of that bothers you, this might be a good story to skip. Note: Title change on 03/19/2009 from "Kindness at All Costs," but no change to the story itself.