My parents think I stopped playing video games years ago, but I bought a handheld console and play under the covers.

My coworker constantly steals my pens, so I bought a pack of pens that write in invisible ink and swapped them.

I act super calm during emergencies, but the second I am alone, my chest caves in from delayed panic.

I intentionally unsubscribe my ex's primary email address from random newsletters every time they cross my mind.

I rejected a counter-offer from my toxic employer because no amount of money could make me stay another year.

I still listen to the last voicemail my best friend left me before we stopped talking three years ago.

I act completely self-assured, but inside I feel like an imposter who is one mistake away from losing everything.

I feel like I am failing at every single aspect of adulthood, but everyone else thinks I am doing great.

I found out which of my friends has been cheating on their partner and never mentioned it to anyone.

I lied about having a competing offer and got my company to bump my salary by 25%. I didn't even have an interview.

I told my coworkers I missed the team dinner because of a scheduling conflict. I was home eating air fryer nachos.

My parents think I gave my old guitar away to a music school, but I secretly kept it stored in my closet.

My parents think I am saving for a house down payment, but I spent half of it on a cross-country motorcycle trip.

I am proud of the life you built without me, even if it hurts knowing I had to be left behind for it to happen.

I hope you found the happiness you were looking for when you walked away from us.