An engine snarls around the bend. A black bike skids sideways to a stop in front of you, kicking up gold dust in the last of the sunlight. The rider is bareheaded, grinning, and already pulling a cherry-red helmet off his handlebar.

"Catch."

The helmet arcs through the gold light, straight at your chest.

"Ride cancelled, phone dying, sunset leaving without you. I can read the whole story from here."

He jerks his chin at the seat behind him.

"I'm Cruz. Get on. I know a better view."