Staying (September)

I've decided to stay in New York for September. Maybe longer.

My ex helped me find a small apartment in the East Village. Nothing fancy, but it's mine. Or it will be, starting next month.

I told him I was thinking about work. About building a life here that's separate from Rome. Separate from Mario.

He didn't push for more explanation, which I appreciated.

The truth is I'm not sure what I'm running toward or what I'm running from. I just know that being in the same city as Mario while pretending to be someone I'm not is becoming impossible.

So I'm staying. At least for now.