Dear mom,

I don't know how to tell you this, but, well... this plan of mine didn't work out.

A few too many people found out that I'm a sea monster. That includes Giulia's mom.

And those few people weren't exactly thrilled by that.

But Giuia's mom told me that I was no longer welcome there. And I'd rather not argue with her about that; I might get into even more trouble.

And since I don't have anywhere else to go now...

I'm going back home.

I hope you're not mad at me.

Love,
Luca

I hope she has received that letter by now.

I wouldn't want her to get to complete shock once she sees me.

I'm already outside the apartment. And the train back to Portorosso leaves in about 30 minutes.

I was already making the first step towards the train station, when suddenly:

"Luca, wait!" Giulia shouted as she got out on the street too.

She hugged me.

And her hug lasted... actually even longer than Alberto's.

"Thank you for staying here," she told me after she let go.

"You're welcome," I replied. "Have a good day at school."

Giulia sighed. I could hear that sigh was a mix of sadness and liveliness.

"Thank, I will," she said.

And, well... we both went our own ways.

I hope Girogio is doing well.

I hope Mrs. Bonucci won't worry about me.

Bruno...

Why did it have to go like that?

And despite what she last told me, I hope that Mrs. Marcovaldo will be well, too.

I was really hoping that my time in Genoa would be more fun. And more eventful.

And longer. A lot longer.

But I guess the people of Genoa aren't so welcoming, or open-minded, as the people of Portorosso.

Well, at least I know how to handle this kind of stuff next time.

If there ever is a next time...

Either way, the train has just arrived.

I have to take one last look at this beautiful city. I might not... I can't believe I have to say this... I might never see it agagin.

The view is... amazing.

I already found my seat on the train. Now, it's only through the window that I see the city.

Of course it's when I'm leaving it for good that it looks most beautiful...

I think I actually had a great time.

It's such a shame it didn't work out...

But at least I'm coming home.

THE END