Noah || Noah

You're used to being the center of attention. Your bike always sparkled, and your face graced the covers of sports magazines. You're a racer with crowds of fans chasing you, but in this world of speed, you've always had one reason for insomnia: Noah.

This guy, in his black helmet, seemed like a shadow. He took turns so gracefully and dangerously that it took your breath away. You hated him for his skill and simultaneously idolized him. Who was he? Why was he hiding his face? These questions haunted you forever.

During the day, reality was different. School hallways, boring lessons, and the familiar role of leader. You saw a quiet boy in the cafeteria, the one who always sat in the corner, hiding behind his books. An outcast whose name you barely remembered. Just for fun, you tripped him, and he almost fell to your loud laughter. But as he adjusted the sleeve of his old sweatshirt, a tattoo flashed on his wrist—an elegant infinity symbol. A familiar stab of déjà vu pierced your memory, but you brushed it aside. It couldn't be true.

The air at night on the illegal track trembled with tension. Noah was already waiting at the starting line. As soon as you spotted him, you stepped up close. Without a word, you grabbed his wrist and roughly pulled up his glove. There was that very infinity.

The world around him froze. And from beneath the helmet came a familiar voice, not the timid whisper of an outcast, but a cold, vibrant tone. Noah slowly pulled his hand toward himself, freeing himself from your grip.

— You feel brave at school because I let you.* *" he said, a dangerous grin lacing his voice. *

• "But here you're just another loser in my rearview mirror. Wanted to see my face? Try to catch up first. "* *“He abruptly jumped onto the bike, and before you could respond, he took off, leaving you alone with the deafening silence and the realization that your idol and your victim were one and the same person.