Beyond The Fine Line

Chapter XVII - Startling Discoveries

The climbing gym was filled with the earthy scent of chalk and the distant echo of climbers conquering the towering walls. The space was expansive, with high ceilings allowing for ample verticality. Brightly coloured routes snaked their way up the walls, some posing a challenge even for the seasoned climbers. Soft lighting bathed the room in a gentle glow, casting shadows that danced playfully across the textured surfaces. A soundtrack of upbeat tunes added to the lively atmosphere, mingling with the occasional laughter or encouraging shout.

Sean never expected to find himself in a place like this, especially not on this side of the river. And even less to feel welcomed. But this was probably on his companion, who seemed well acquainted with an employee at the front desk.

At first, he was taken aback by the challenge presented by the climbing walls and impressed by Jay's patience as he explained the necessary techniques. However, Sean couldn't help but find himself distracted by his effortless agility and speed as he scaled the walls. 'Damn, where is he hiding all these muscles in this skinny body?'

Despite initial reservations, Sean soon lost track of time, immersing himself in the experience. As a result, their session was punctuated by laughter and friendly competition, bringing them closer with each climb. Jay's infectious enthusiasm and expertise made even the most daunting routes seem conquerable, and Sean found himself pushing his limits in ways he hadn't anticipated. It has been a while since he had so much fun.

During a well-deserved break, Sean gestured towards a steep overhang, curiosity gleaming in his eyes. "How do you deal with this?"

"Ah, the overhang," Jay remarked, leaning back against the wall with a relaxed grin. "It's all about finding your centre of gravity and using momentum to your advantage. The key is to keep your core engaged and your body close to the wall. That way, you're using your legs to push up and take some pressure off your arms."

"This is the first time I've actually heard you excited about something outside law-related topics," Sean said with sudden realisation, his tone light and playful. "Almost like you are either busy with work or trying to kill yourself by falling from high places."

"The whole idea behind it is to not fall from high places. Although this can be fun as well."

Sean blinked in surprise. "The fuck... which part of falling can be even considered fun?!"

"You should really give deep water soloing a shot," Jay chuckled. "Picture yourself climbing a cliff over the sea, no ropes or harnesses, just you and the waves below. The rush you get as you ascend is like nothing else," his tone softened, a touch of nostalgia in his eyes. "It's addicting, really. The adrenaline, the feeling of being truly alive. In that moment, nothing else matters but the thrill of the climb. And when you finally reach the top, there's this incredible sense of freedom, like you're on top of the world, untethered from the constraints of everyday life."

Something deep inside told him this was important. After all, it was the second time Jay mentioned he felt alive when teetering on the brink of death. But he also remembered how swiftly Jay switched the topic when he asked about it. It made him realise that maybe it was better to give it time and listen to him carefully to learn more instead of straightforwardly asking about it? "This sounds like you have a death wish," Sean commented, trying to sound natural. "What happens when you make a mistake? Plunge into the sea?"

"Yep, hoping the waves will cushion your fall and won't smash you against the cliff."

"See? Death wish."

"I could say the same about breaking into a factory belonging to a guy who clearly can get away with a murder."

Sean wanted to argue that reasons mattered, but he couldn't. What if Jay's reasons were as valid as his? Instead, he decided to be honest with him. "It felt like we had no other choice back then."