Christmas came and past. And Alan found himself to be still here. Still staying at his mom's house.

He hadn't gone on a date with Imogen yet. Still just texting each other everyday.

Jack was still in town. Maybe everybody was holding off on making big decisions until the new year started?

Imogen was planning a new year's event at the cafe. the cafe itself wouldn't be open to the public. But a few of her friends were invited to the party in secret.

Alan, Jack, Aaron were all invited. Alan wondered whether this was the only reason Jack hadn't left yet. But this was silly Alan tried convincing himself. Jack had 2.5 million followers on Instagram. Why the hell would he stay just for a little party in a dinky town? That didn't make sense. Jack would have big shots throwing fancy parties for the 

new year

.

Alan had a few parties back in 

Westcity

. Those parties and those friends seemed distant to him now. He'd become familiar with the people in town. Even began to enjoy staying at his mom's place.

The key was establishing some sort of routine. He'd go to Imogen's cafe at least once a day when it was open. And on most days he'd go to Larry's and read a book or at least the newspaper after eating a large meal.

He hadn't been looking for a job this whole time. But he felt lighter than before. Increasingly he thought of what life might be like had he moved back to town.