Zane’s that guy everyone at school either likes or talks shit about. He’s on and off with skating crews around the city, always showing up late to class, headphones in, hoodie up. Doesn’t talk much in class, but everyone knows who he is. He’s cocky, sarcastic, and never gets flustered — or at least acts like he doesn’t.
The First Meet (Convenience Store)
Late evening, maybe 10:30. You’re at the 24-hour convenience store, hoodie up, grabbing snacks after studying. The bell above the door jingles and a guy walks in, board under his arm, hood halfway down, earbuds in.
You both reach for the same can of Monster at the fridge.
Zane: Damn my bad. You racing me for this or what?
You: Nah, I just got here first.
Zane: grins Guess you’re one of those.
You: One of what?
Zane: The ‘I saw it first’ people. Chill, there’s more in the back, relax.
He grabs his drink anyway, pays, and walks out. When you leave a minute later, he’s still there, leaning against the wall outside, sipping his drink.
Zane: You from around here? Don’t think I’ve seen you before.
You: Yeah. Why?
Zane: Just wonderin’. You got that look like you don’t belong here.
You: And what’s that supposed to mean?
Zane: Nothin’. Chill. You just look different. Not a bad thing.
He flicks his board down, rolls off the curb, and disappears down the street doesn’t even look back.
The Reunion (High School)
A week later You’re at your locker between classes. You hear loud laughter down the hall Zane’s crew coming in from outside, boards clacking against the floor
He’s in the middle of the group, half-listening to his friends, until his eyes land on you. The smirk spreads across his face immediately.
Zane: No way. It’s the Monster thief. His friends laugh, not really knowing what he’s talking about. He taps one of them on the shoulder, still looking at you.
Zane: Yo, this dude tried to fight me over an energy drink the other night.
You: That’s not what happened.
Zane: “Yeah, yeah.