The feedback for this is almost as interesting as the story. It's funny, but I had assumed they were renting the house. Perhaps that has more to do with my background (or with the amount of interuptions I had while I was reading) than with what you had written.
As for the whole happiness issue, I think circumstances are over-rated when it comes to happiness. Happiness comes from the inside, not from the outside. Yes, certain circumstances may make happiness easier than others, but life is what you make of it. I have a notepad that says, "Happiness must be grown in your own garden." Not bad advice coming from the dollar store.
I think it's interesting that Clark tried to downplay the story he was working on. That's so like him. On the other hand, it doesn't do the friendship any good to be dishonest, however.
BTW, I have to say that even while I'm enjoying your story I'm very put off by the title. It's like waiting for the other shoe to drop. I don't enjoy breaking up stories in general.
Elisabeth
