I loved riding my bike. It was like it was apart of me. I could never let it go.

If you ever asked why I rode, I would say because it’s cool. If you asked me on a deeper level, it’s because the wind rushing through my hair and the adrenaljne from the speed makes me happy. It reminds me of home

The first time I rode was with my dad. He had this huge, old bike that I loved. Now, what I’m about to tell you is extremely confidential. And before you judge me, I was five.

I named his bike Kitty. I had just watched Monsters Inc. for the first time and I was obsessed with it. I still am, but that’s besides the point.

Anyways, when my dad took me to get my license, I was ecstatic. That first ride that I took was pure joy. Let’s just say that there were many more after that.

Until I crashed. It wasn’t a bad one. I got out of it pretty unscathed. The worst damage was a very small concussion and an expensive replacement of my helmet.

I was terrified after that. I haven’t been on a bike in a couple of months. I lost all of my confidence in driving one. Today was the first day that I have. And I was riding with someone else.

I met Jake, my boyfriend, on a trip with my friends. He helped me pack my side bags one night and we just started talking.

Sitting here, in the back his bike was scary. I still felt this thrill I normally do, but it was hidden under a layer of fear. I wrapped my arms around his waist so tightly I didn’t think he could move.

He were going around a bend when I felt my hand slip. Suddenly, I was falling. Air rushed beneath me. I screamed. I was gonna die.

And then Jake caught me. He squeezed my hand and I felt his shoulders shake in a laugh.

His voice crackled through my headset. “You’re dramatic, you know that?” I punched his shoulder. Relief started to pour in when I realized I was safe. I didn’t fall.

“I thought you were on my side!” I whined. He was still chuckling. “I am. But your hand barely went past my leg. You were fine, Emma.” He reassured me.

I huffed and rested my head in his back. “It didn’t feel like it.” He shook his head in amazement and sped up.

“Slow down!” Was all my friends could hear through their headsets.

[I don’t know a lot about motorcycles. Most of it comes from riding with my dad. Have a great day! 🩵]