Visiting

Man....isn’t it weird to think of just how much time’s passed by since we met? We’ve had quite a good run, haven’t we?

Yeah, we have. But you know this can’t be forever, right? Something’s bound to happen eventually and we’ll likely have to say goodbye.

That’s true, but I’d rather not think about it. The thought of losing you—it’s not something I’m super happy for.

I know, man. I ain’t happy either, but life takes us on her path and doesn’t tell us where she’s taking us. For all I know, I could be dead tomorrow.

You could, yes, but the likelihood of that happening is almost close to zero. But I think you’re hiding something. I’ve known you way too long to just believe that everything’s fine just ‘cause you say so.

Are you tryna psycho-analyze me or something? I don’t have anything, I’m just saying things happen.

Bullshit. You wouldn’t mention that ‘things happen’ if this were just some run-of-the-mill visit, so what the hell gives?

Look, man, I wanted to make this easy, but I’ll just say it—I’m moving.

Huh. Where to?

Amsterdam. Got offered a job there and it seems pretty good, so I’m headed there tomorrow. I thought I’d let you know.

Hmm. Amsterdam. Interesting posting. What do you think of it?

Can’t say, really. Haven’t been before, but I’ve always wanted to see Europe, so I’m kinda excited.

That’s good. At least you have enthusiasm. Meanwhile, I’m just here like...

Man, man...don’t turn this into a pity party. I don’t need ya to mope about how your life sucks. I get it.

I’ve had my own rough patches in my life, but you can’t let ‘em get you down. You have to fight back, ‘cause if you don’t, you’ll have a date worse than death.

Oh, that’s so nice, Mr Philosopher. I see you’re already putting that fancy university degree to use.

You know, man, I didn’t have to show up here. You have your life, I have mine, and we’re not even really friends anymore.

What? But I thought you loved me?

I did. Once. Part of me still does. But I can’t keep pretending that I still love you when the spark ain’t there anymore.

So, does this mean we’re breaking up?

Yeah. Yeah, it does. I wish I could have said it more gently but this kinda thing’s never easy. I wish you all the best, dude.

I might not love you anymore, but I wouldn’t take back the time we spent together as kids at all. It was still worth it.

But you’re leaving me alone here. Hell, you’re going to a whole different continent.

Yeah, but we’ll always have our memories of those days to look back on.

I guess. It’s hard to deal with you leaving but if this is what you want, who am I to stop you?

Honestly, I think this is the best for both of us. But I didn’t want to bear bad news without giving you a little something for your trouble.

What?

Come here, man. Come here.

(He approaches; the other man gives him a hug)

Here, man. Here’s a gift. I know you like comics so I thought I’d get you some before I left.

Oh, wow. I’m...

No need to thank me. Now, I should probably get going. I have other friends to tend to.

But I haven’t even brought you anything..

There’s no need. Just being here is enough for me.

Aww, well. Goodbye. Safe travels.

Thanks.

(He exits out the door and walks into his car. Before long, he drives off.)