A Farewell Letter

Written 24 April 2024:

Dear Friend from Rome,

I will start with the plain truth: I’m sad and hurt that you didn’t say goodbye. You ghosted me, as the kids say. And it sucks because I didn’t expect that kind of behavior from you. I expected us to be adults and end the relationship…whatever it was with a kiss and a hug farewell. Or at least a text.

I initially thought that you had been hurt and placed in an ICU ward. Maybe that’s why you couldn’t return my texts. Then I called to just check-in. Now I hope you’ve found someone and that’s the reason you disappeared without a word. If so, a sincere congratulations! I wish you had just said so.

When we met in Rome during karaoke night at Scholars Lounge, I knew we had some shared connections. There was no way it would be a one night stand. It couldn’t have been – we were too drunk. But that was a great night singing “Under the Boardwalk” and stumbling back to your hotel room. I enjoyed making you dinner the next night and finding the best wine under your direction. I expected nothing sexually. I think we were both pretty tired. You fell asleep in my arms and I was satisfied.

The best part about saying goodbye was I knew I would see you again. We stayed in touch for two months. I hadn’t been that blatantly open with anyone in a long time. It felt good to talk and share. I was anxious to return to the States and fly in to see you.

We spent four days together. Sushi and pizza and burgers and movies and cuddles. There was sex…amazing sex, but I felt our connection was beyond that. I left to visit my brother and we decided to be friends with benefits. You wanted a man who made some money and I don’t think that will be me. I want kids (I think) and you don’t. I knew our…situationship wasn’t permanent, but I expected to enjoy it for a while. I came back for one more night before I flew home. It was more of the same amazingness. This time, saying goodbye felt different. I knew it might mean the end, but neither of us said anything. I told you I’d come visit soon. And I’ve been to New York three times since then.

Thank you for listening to me. Thanks for talking with me. Your hugs are amazing. Thanks for the peanut butter cups (that I still have). Thanks for the IPAs that you got specifically for me. I’m appreciative of the time we had. I respected the heck out of you. You’re a hard worker and fun to be around.

Since you’re not saying goodbye, I will. Goodbye. Maybe I’ll run into you in the city. We’ll share a knowing look and remember all the good times. I’ll be tempted to run up to you, but you’ll have your man nearby. I’ll nod, smile, and return to whatever I’m doing.

Sincerely,

Nick