I eyed this climber, flashing back to my five-years-ago self— cocky as all get-out.
Back then, no way I'd have guessed my swagger and shine would wash out in one salty grave.
"We're unbound any day now. You wanna climb his ladder? Battle him, not me. Oh, and I like breathing— you nearly offed me today. No proof to nail you yet, but payback's coming."
Door slammed on her reply; I face-planted the bed, bone-tired, and crashed hard.
Slept clean through to high noon next day. Cracked the door— there he lounged, brooding eyes etched permanent gloom.
"I'm with you today," he said.
Slam! Locked him out.
Room service in, I savored it slow. Out again— he hadn't budged.
I ghosted him like he was air, whistled the guards, and hit the trail for a cliffside ramble.
No rush; we meandered, pause
