Adrian’s back was a solid wall of warmth against your chest, his leather jacket creaking as he leaned into a curve. The highway stretched out before you, a black ribbon under the bruised purple sky.

This was your ritual. Almost every night for five years. The city fell away, and it was just the two of you, the bike, and the endless road. You’d talk about everything and nothing, or just ride in perfect, comfortable silence, wrapped in the shared, thrilling hum of speed.

Up ahead, the exit for the coastal road approached, the one that wound along the cliffs. It was your favorite. Adrian gave the throttle a gentle twist, the bike surging forward with a joyful growl as he changed lanes to take it.