Another day, another Blablacar. Time always seems to be against you; when you have freedom from the clock you can hitchhike and stay as long as you want in each place you visit. This was not one of those times.

I was visiting Pietro in his home city, Milan. Dropped in an outer suburb, I walked across to Pietro’s apartment. Pietro is a really cool guy. It dawned on me that we’d only spent five days together but it felt like we’d known each other for far longer. It’s a strange phenomenon when you spend a few days with someone and develop a meaningful connection that makes you feel like you’ve known each other for years.

In the courtyard Pietro’s dog came bounding over. When I looked up I didn’t recognise Pietro at first as, like me, he was sufficiently hairier from when we last saw each other; the difference being his was on his head and mine on my face.

He helped carry my things up to his apartment and introduced me to his brother, Leonardo. Pietro gave up his room so I had a place to sleep and had prepared lunch in anticipation of my arrival. He’s a stand-up guy who cares and takes time for others. I’m thankful we could have a few more days together.