I've "talked" (and by "talked," I mean emailed) about the details of the conundrum with someone whose opinion I value most highly, and she reacted the same way I am...that the better option is for me to move out. It may mean I have to stick around a little longer than I was hoping (it could take several weeks to find a place), but overall I think the benefits outweigh the downside.
I am kicking my apartment search into high gear. I have some barriers (terrible credit, need a place that will take my dog, has to fit in my budget), but I am determined.