Gotta go

Runners come back, but for some people that's not enough

Just before leaving, one of the thousand times.

In a classic paradox, the best and worst part about running is being alone. For anyone who’s ever had to make the decision about whether to stay or to go—this one’s for you.

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Maryland St, 2015

They sat looking over the rolling, yellow-green-gray hills and the flat roofs of apartment buildings. They watched the clouds reflect the orange sun floating its way down into the horizon behind them.

“What are you thinking about?” asked Nick. 

“Nothing.” she replied. “Running.”

“Well, which is it?” he asked, irritated. 

“Running.”

“Oh, well, I’ll leave then.” His voice transmitted malice and sadness. He slammed the steel door of their boxy apartment behind him. 

She looked after him and laced up her shoes. She bounced down the stairs and ran off into the night. 

Just as she hit the sidewalk, the streetlights flicked on. The apartment behind her stayed dark.