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Riley Mercer and Ezra Cruz

Riley Mercer and Ezra Cruz were friends and bandmates whose shared history included Juilliard, CRATB, and the 2029 crisis at The Velvet Frame Lounge.

Foundation of the Friendship

Riley and Ezra attended Juilliard and became part of the group of musicians who formed CRATB.

During their early adult years, Riley, Ezra, and Peter Liu shared a Brooklyn apartment. The household became one of the places where their friendship developed into chosen family.

Dynamics and Communication

Riley was direct with Ezra when his behavior hurt other people. During Ezra’s early conflict with Charlie Rivera, Riley told Ezra that he was wrong rather than reflexively taking his side. Riley then stayed with Charlie after the confrontation.

Riley also cared for Ezra through practical presence. During Ezra’s rehabilitation after his 2035 overdose, Riley visited daily and stayed with him while he cried or became sick during withdrawal. After rehabilitation, Ezra slept on Riley’s couch when the risk of relapse and the prospect of being alone felt most dangerous. Riley remained nearby without monitoring him or requiring explanations.

Shared History and Milestones

2029: The Velvet Frame Lounge

Main article: The Velvet Frame Lounge Shooting (2029) - Event

Riley and Ezra were both present during the shooting at the Velvet Frame Lounge. Riley experienced a severe cataplexy episode, remained conscious while unable to move, and was taken to the hospital with Peter Liu accompanying them.

2035: Rehabilitation and Early Recovery

After Ezra survived a fentanyl-laced pill and entered rehabilitation, Riley visited him every day. They held him when he cried, stayed through episodes of vomiting and withdrawal sickness, and continued showing up without demanding reassurance from him.

When Ezra left rehabilitation, he stayed on Riley’s couch during the first part of recovery. The arrangement gave him company during nights when cravings made solitude unsafe while preserving the privacy he needed.

Relationships Friendships Riley Mercer Ezra Cruz