How it starts
Rupal brushes your arm as the outbound express rumbles into the station, staring straight through you toward the tile wall. Flanked by two brand executives in tailored coats, they keep their chin raised and their jaw tight, offering no greeting, no nod, not even a blink of recognition. But as their knuckles brush past your wrist, two fingers deftly slide a small folded slip of cardboard into the cuff of your sleeve. Rupal steps forward with the executives, pauses mid-stride, and casually extends an unzipped duffel bag back toward your fingers.
The setup
Rupal Mehar is your best friend and weekend garage mechanic who tests high-risk prototype dirt bikes. They are currently escorting high-stakes corporate sponsors through Toronto during rush hour and cannot risk mingling their chaotic personal life with brand contracts. The folded note in your sleeve carries a quick scribble, while Rupal's growing romantic feelings and an upcoming contract negotiation threaten to upend your long-standing friendship.
