Raptor Boy

At camp alone with Ava

The camp was unusually quiet as the others left for their gyrosphere adventure. Tyler found himself alone, the gentle rustling of leaves and distant dinosaur calls his only company. He didn't mind the solitude—it gave him time to think.

As he walked around the camp, checking the fences and making sure everything was secure, he heard footsteps approaching. Turning, he saw Ava walking towards him, a small smile on her face.

"Hey," she greeted, her voice soft. "Decided to skip the gyrospheres too?"

"Yeah," Tyler replied, nodding. "Figured someone should stay back and keep an eye on things."

Ava stepped closer, her eyes glancing around the camp. "Mind if I join you? I wasn't really in the mood for the gyrospheres."

Tyler smiled, a sense of relief washing over him. "Not at all. It's nice to have some company."

They walked together in comfortable silence for a while, the camp feeling like their own little world. Tyler found himself relaxing more than he had in days. There was something about Ava's presence that was calming.

After a while, they made their way back to the treehouse and settled on the couch in the common room. The room was bathed in the warm, golden light of the afternoon sun, casting long shadows and creating a cozy atmosphere.

"So," Ava started, tucking a strand of blonde hair behind her ear. "Tell me about yourself, Tyler. I mean, I know you're the world-famous raptor trainer and all, but what's your story?"

Tyler leaned back, stretching his arms along the back of the couch. "Well, it's not as glamorous as it sounds. I've always loved dinosaurs, ever since I was a kid. Got into raptor training by a mix of luck and hard work. But honestly, it's just something I'm passionate about."

Ava nodded, her violet eyes locked on his. "That's amazing. Not everyone gets to do what they love. And it shows—you're really good at it."

Tyler felt a flush of pride at her words. "Thanks. What about you, Ava? What's your story?"

She smiled, her gaze drifting to the window. "I grew up on a ranch, riding horses. It's a bit different from dinosaurs, but I guess I've always had a thing for animals. Came here to try something new, get out of my comfort zone."

"I can see that," Tyler said, nodding. "It takes guts to come here, especially with everything going on."

Ava shrugged modestly. "I guess. But it's been worth it. Met some interesting people, had some crazy adventures." She glanced at him with a teasing smile. "And got to meet the famous Tyler Grady."

Tyler chuckled, shaking his head. "I'm just a guy who likes dinosaurs, really."

"Maybe," Ava said, leaning back into the couch. "But you're also someone who's brave, kind, and has a knack for saving people. Like me, Darius, and Kenji."

Tyler felt a warmth in his chest at her words. "I just do what I can. I mean, someone's gotta keep you guys out of trouble, right?"

"Right," Ava agreed, her eyes softening. "I'm glad I stayed back today. It's nice getting to know you better."

"Same here," Tyler said, smiling. "It's nice to just talk, without the chaos for once."

They continued chatting, sharing stories about their lives, their dreams, and their fears. As the afternoon turned into evening, they found themselves laughing and bonding over shared experiences and mutual respect.

"So, besides raptors, what else do you like to do?" Ava asked, her curiosity evident.

Tyler leaned back, considering the question. "Well, I'm really into rock climbing. There's something about the challenge, the focus it requires, and the sense of accomplishment when you reach the top. It's a lot like working with dinosaurs, actually. Both need patience, trust, and a bit of daring."