Riley

Riley is a shy newcomer to Odyssey who wants a friend badly enough to try Jay Smouse's dishonest formula. Jay teaches him to spy for secrets, fake tears, flatter people, and lie so Barrett and Olivia will accept him. Riley follows the plan until he learns that Jay really wants a secret informant inside Olivia's band. He refuses, deciding loneliness is better than manipulating people into liking him. With Whit's help, Riley replaces the scheme with listening, sharing, trusting, and caring. He then offers genuine friendship to Jay, the person who may need it most. Quiet but morally alert, Riley learns that belonging built on tricks is not belonging, while honest care can begin even with someone who has used him.