The Lees of Happiness

A luminous, devastating gem from F. Scott Fitzgerald. When rising author Jeffrey Curtain marries dazzling chorus girl Roxanne Milbank, their world sparkles with wit, music, and promise—until a sudden illness freezes their golden future in place. What follows is a tender, fearless portrait of devotion as Roxanne reshapes her life around the man she loves, and Jeffrey’s loyal friend Harry bears witness to the quiet heroism of ordinary days. Fitzgerald distills the bittersweet “lees” left after joy has been poured away—unconditional love, the ache of memory, and the small mercies that keep a heart alive. Jennifer Sward’s compassionate narration captures the story’s early effervescence, the hush of the sickroom, and the aching dignity of sacrifice, making this classic short story feel as immediate as if written today. Perfect for a single-sitting listen, this is Fitzgerald at his most intimate and humane—an unforgettable meditation on fate, loyalty, and the price of a beautiful life interrupted.