Weeks before moving cross country to save my marriage and add adventure to my former expat lifestyle, I take off my wedding ring at a Phish concert. The universe answers by randomly reuniting me with an old crush. Although I’ve never received a more intense sign than this, I’m focused on a successful fresh start in Las Vegas. So, I ignore it.

However, the Sin City relocation blows up in my face, and I seek reprieve through weekends of seeing Phish with the former object of my affection. This alternate life taunts me with true happiness, but it’s unfeasible to change paths again, given my recent ostensible renewal in the Southwest. I compromise by straddling both existences, making a mess of both while considering whether to wallow deeper into my desert sand trap or break free of it and pursue my second chance…