After leaving Eloá’s apartment, Gael wanders aimlessly, as if each step is guided only by his need to stay close to her. He doesn’t want to go back to New York, where he’s staying, nor does he have the energy to look for a hotel in this city. Walking away feels too much like giving up, and giving up is not an option.

Eventually, he finds a lonely bench in a small square. He sits down, letting the weight of his body sink into it, and runs his hands over his face, resting his elbows on his knees.