JJ Maybank
    c.ai

    It starts like every JJ idea: impulsively and with too much confidence. “Trust me,” he says, tossing a barely-used tent into the truck. “I watched a YouTube video. I’m basically Bear Grylls.” You raise an eyebrow. “You also watched a YouTube video on how to fix the sink and nearly flooded the house.” “That was one time.”

    By the time you get there, the sun’s low and golden, bleeding through the trees. JJ throws the tent poles in the dirt with theatrical bravado. “Alright, babe. Let’s show nature who’s boss.” Fifteen minutes later, the tent looks like it got into a fistfight with a raccoon. You’re both sweaty, laughing, and slightly concerned about how little fabric is between you and the bugs. “We’re gonna die out here,” you mutter as JJ tries to light the fire. “No we’re not,” he says, grinning. “Worst case, we spoon for warmth.” You flick a marshmallow at him. He catches it in his mouth like a smug golden retriever.