This episode is sponsored by Better Help.

Around this time of year, it can feel like there's a countdown clock on relationships,

like you're supposed to be somewhere specific by now.

But no matter where you are in your romantic journey, you're right on time.

Most people are still figuring things out,

even if it doesn't look that way from the outside.

Therapy can help you slow down and make sense of what's actually going

on beneath the surface. It's a place to explore what you want, what patterns might be showing up,

and what could be holding your relationships back, whether those relationships are with a partner

or with yourself. Sometimes a little work can lead to a lot of progress. BetterHelp is the world's

largest online therapy platform,

with thousands of licensed therapists and millions of people helped. They match you based on your needs,

and if it's not the right fit, you can change therapists at any time. Sign up and get 10% off

at betterhelp.com slash DNS. That's BetterHELP.com slash DNS.

Talk to nicely.

The dirty to-go containers tumble from my grip as the screams echo through the night.

My hand instantly reaches back inside the guardhouse for my nightstick.

I look at the emissary.

Stay here.

I'm hardly in any danger watchman.

A scream so loud, so blood curdling that the branches of the trees lining the road

shake with fear.

...