Lisbon
Yusuf and Camila had been friends since university, and they could say hard things to each other over coffee.
“I'm going to do it,” Camila said. “I've found a job in Lisbon. I'm moving in September.”
Yusuf put down his cup. “You're serious.”
“I'm aware it sounds sudden. But I've thought about it for a year. I'm determined.”
“Camila, your whole life is here. Your work, your flat, your friends.”
“I know. I'm not saying it's easy.”
“If I were you, I wouldn't go,” Yusuf said. “Not now. The timing is wrong.”
“The timing is never right. That's the point. If I waited for the perfect moment, I'd wait forever.”
Yusuf was quiet for a while. He didn't dislike the idea, exactly, but it worried him. “I'm not trying to stop you. I'm aware I sound like I am.”
“You do, a little.”
“I just think this matters too much to rush.” He stayed calm, choosing his words. “Although I understand why you want to go.”
Camila smiled, a little sadly. “Neither you nor anyone else can decide this for me, Yusuf. But it's essential to me that you understand.”
“I understand,” he said. “I don't agree, but I understand. And I apologize if I sounded angry.”
“You didn't. You sounded like a friend.”