The morning sun filtered through the canopies of the man-made forest that bordered the winding road to Cinder Square. Cool air brushed against the window of Miles's car as he cruised along in silence, the engine humming like a lullaby beneath the faint jazz playing through the speakers.
As the trees thinned ahead, Miles's eyes caught sight of a car pulled over by the roadside. Its hood was popped open, steam faintly rising into the air.
Miles gently pressed the brakes and slowed to a stop.
From behind the hood, a young man emerged—probably in his early twenties. He wore a crisp navy suit with polished shoes and a silver watch that sparkled in the light. His shirt was a bit untucked on one side, suggesting a rough morning, but he still looked like someone straight out of a business school brochure.
The man spotted Miles's car and lifted a hopeful hand. "Hey, brother! Mind giving me a lift?"
Miles rolled down his window with a calm glance. "Where to?"