The Cave 34: Bane vs. Cage 4

SATURDAY MORNING. BETTER BEAN CAFE. LOS ANGELES CA.

“Okay, looks like we’re finally done, Cody.” I check the time on my phone. Shit. Just minutes to spare. Between Cave business and party planning for my birthday next weekend, this took way longer than I expected. I prod my best friend, “Wow, look at the time. Don’t let me keep you. I know you need to run.”

Cody smirks at me, “Ry, here’s a pro tip on lying. Talk normal. You never say ‘wow, look at the time’. It’s unnatural. That means that you want to get rid of me. Question is, why? Hm.”

The Cave 33: Skip Pays a Visit

OUTSIDE MY HOME. LOS ANGELES CA. 

“CODY! There’s my new best buddy!”

I turn. Smiling and waving at me as he jogs across traffic is a handsome 25-year-old, 5’8”, and 160-lbs stud. He’s white with brown hair in a military cut - shaved on the sides, about an inch long on top. His upper body is tight and chiseled, wrapped in a red tank top that says lifeguard on it. Oh god, I hope not. He’s also got beige cargo shorts and beat up Chuck’s.

Skip!