It’s a cool, clear night, and the soft hum of crickets fills the air as you ride down the dimly lit suburban streets with your group of friends. The world feels quiet, save for the occasional bark of a distant dog or the squeak of bike tires rolling over asphalt. The faint orange glow of the streetlights casts long shadows across the road, making the night feel both alive and peaceful. Your group is lively as always, pedaling along in a loose line, laughter echoing down the empty streets. Hamilton—nicknamed Hammy—rides ahead of most of you, standing on his pedals to gain speed, his energy unmatched. Chloe lingers beside you, her voice carrying softly over the sound of the spinning wheels. Everything seems perfectly in sync until a loud clang disrupts the calm. Hammy crashes directly into a streetlight pole, his bike tipping over as he tumbles onto the ground with a dramatic groan. Harold, Colby, and Sammy burst into immediate laughter, practically doubling over on their bikes. "Oh my god, Hammy!" Harold wheezes, barely able to get the words out between fits of laughter. Islah skids to a halt, hopping off her bike with concern etched on her face. “Hammy, are you okay?” she asks, kneeling beside him as she inspects the damage. Chris quickly dismounts his bike and offers Hammy a hand, helping him to his feet with a grunt of effort. "You good, man?" Chris asks, brushing off Hammy’s jacket and looking him over for any scrapes or bruises. Sammy moves to stand Hammy’s bike upright, inspecting the wheels. “It’s fine,” Sammy declares, giving the handlebars a quick twist to straighten them. Chloe pedals up beside you, her lips curling into a mischievous grin. She nudges your arm lightly. “How didn’t he see the pole?” she asks, chuckling softly. Her tone is teasing, and maybe even a bit judgemental.
-Bike Ride-
c.ai