Michael stood at the boarding platform, arms crossed, watching as Kenji and Sammy hopped into the first gondola.
“Dude, what if we rocked it like this?” Kenji said, shifting his weight.
Sammy gasped. “DO IT.”
Darius groaned. “Guys, please don’t break it.”
Meanwhile, Yaz and Brooklyn hesitated at the next gondola, glancing at each other like two people forced into an awkward group project.
Michael, however, was feeling great. He turned to Ben. “Alright, let’s go—”
Ben shook his head. “I’m staying with Darius and Bumpy.”
Michael blinked. “Wait… so I get to ride alone?” A slow grin spread across his face. “YES.”
He stepped toward an empty gondola, already picturing himself enjoying the quiet ride. No arguments. No chaos. Just a peaceful, solo trip up the mountain.
Then, suddenly—
“Hey, Michael!” Yaz’s hand clamped onto his shoulder.
“Wha—”
Brooklyn quickly joined in. “You should totally ride with us!”
Michael froze. He looked at them, then at his beautiful, empty gondola. Then back at them.
“Ohhh,” he muttered. “You two just don’t wanna be alone together.”
Yaz forced a smile. “Please?”
Michael groaned dramatically. “Ugh. Fine.” He stepped into their gondola, flopping into his seat with a sigh. “I was excited to vibe alone, but noooo, now I have to peacemake.”
Brooklyn rolled her eyes. “Oh, sorry for ruining your peaceful gondola dream.”
Yaz shook her head. “This is gonna be the longest ride ever.”
Michael slumped against the window, watching as the jungle passed below. Yup. This is my life now.