So, I was briefly associated with a gentleman (dated is probably a better word, but it's so loaded these days that I try to avoid it) a couple of years ago. I am no longer in contact with this man but during our brief friendship he lent me two nice books to read. I never got a chance to return them. They are still in my possession and on my bookcase.

Now, as you know (and have contributed, and I love you for it), I have recently had some pretty hefty bills come up suddenly that have left me cash poor. As a result, I am eyeing everything in my house critically. Anything that can be will be sold. I am thinking about selling these books. Is that wrong? I have a tiny nagging voice telling me it is, but I doubt the man will come asking me for them.

Passive aggression to follow, mainly to give the potentially injured party a chance to defend himself:
I know you read this blog sometime. Sorry about your books. I'm considering the gains to be what my friend Molly calls the "asshole tax." But I'll strike a deal with you: If you give me the explanation you promised (e-mail or comment here, please, I don't wish to speak to you) and didn't deliver then I will return your books.

Labels: books, discussion, question