CHECKMATE - When life plays game with you

5

- Hey Eddie what's going on in here? 

- Crystal Lake town is not safe anymore. Things have changed. 

- What do you mean?

- Have you heard about KGA? 

- KGA? What is that?

"KGA is the most notorious criminal in the USA. He's known for evading capture and leaving minimal evidence behind. He's escaped numerous murder and kidnapping cases." Samantha filled me in.

"Yes and now according to the police he is now targeting his shelter somewhere near or around California," Eddie said.

"If he's so untraceable, how did the police find out his whereabouts?" I asked. 

"They say it's because of a kid he took hostage." Eddie explained.

"How? He seems like a master at covering his tracks." Samantha inquired.

"Word is that the kid overheard KGA's plans for his next hideout, which is believed to be somewhere in or near California. So, the police presence has been heightened in this area." he added.

"I see. Hopefully, they manage to catch him." I said.

The police checked our car and verified our identity cards. After that, they advised us to stay cautious and gave us a green signal to continue.

"So we finally made it, huh?" Samantha remarked. "Yes, finally." I replied, gazing at my childhood home, a big yellow house with white borders. The coconut tree in our yard still stood tall, a reminder of my childhood adventures. I remember climbing up that tree because I wanted to have coconut water and made my parents worried about me falling down the tree but they rescued me just in time. This house held countless memories, and I couldn't wait to spend the rest of my vacation here. The house seemed well-kept and inviting, thanks to my Uncle and Aunt.

Eddie helped us unload our luggage and said, "Alright, ladies, get some rest. I'll pick you up around 5 p.m. today." Eddie said. "Sure thing," I smiled as he drove off. But I knew rest wouldn't come easy – I had presents to distribute, a parental mandate after all. I asked Samantha to rest while I distributed the gifts, but she insisted on joining me. Her determination and the fact that I needed an extra pair of hands swayed me. I feel like a very off-season Santa Claus.

Eddie arrived right on time to pick us up again.     

We headed to the multiplex, a hotspot in town. Eddie and Samantha were buying tickets, so I queued up to get popcorn for all of us. As I stood there, a man started hitting on me. Despite my multiple refusals, he persisted in asking me out. Eddie swooped in from behind, placing his hand on my waist and saying, "What's the problem, mister? Why are you bothering my girl?" Eh? Did he just say "My girl"? Well, that was unexpected. The man seemed to believe I had a boyfriend and left me alone.

"Did you see how he backed off?" Eddie asked, resting his chin on my shoulder.

"Not because of you. I would have punched him in the face if you didn't intervene." I replied.

"Well, my strong girl I am sorry that I underestimated you."

"Fine. Now move your head – it's heavy, and my shoulders will fall out"

"Okay, okay," he complied, standing up straight. "But now, go be with your friend. I'll stand in line instead."

"But I am standing, I said I will buy. And I seriously can protect myself if you are worrying abou- "

"Lottie, I know you can defend yourself, but it's my responsibility to make you feel safe."

Wh-what did he just say? My heart somersaulted right there. I was left speechless. I left the queue and joined Samantha when she asked "Charlotte, why is your face red? Are you not feeling well? Should we head home?". "No I am fine. I was a little stressed because of that weird guy I met while I was standing in the line" I lied, while mentally face-palming myself at the thought that Eddie must have noticed it and most likely he knows it was because of him and I am sure he will use that to tease me in future.

Eddie returned with popcorn and drinks, and we headed into the theatre. He'd chosen a crime-related movie, a genre I loved, I think I am going to get invested in this movie. We secured three seats close to the front; I wanted to sit next to Samantha, but Eddie occupied the middle seat. Such a jerk. It was a two and a half hours movie and quite the interesting one. I should give credit to Eddie for choosing such a great movie but not a great movie partner at all because he and Samantha kept whispering for most of the movie but at least they are getting along.

Our next stop was at a cute cafe that had opened recently. The interior featured a cherry blossom tree mural on the walls, its 3-D-looking branches covered in baby pink petals that seemed to stretch across the entire ceiling. Fairy lights intertwined with the branches, creating a magical ambience. The cafe was softly lit, adding to the romantic vibe. We ordered hibiscus iced tea for me, and two strawberry lattes for Samantha and Eddie, along with three pastries.

"Isn't this cafe the perfect spot for a first date?" I struck up a conversation.

"Yes this place seems so dreamy and romantic" Samantha added.

"Yeah. By the way, should I click some photos for you, ladies?" Eddie proposed.

Eddie took his phone out and instructed me to pose. I attempted the classic 'pretty girl at a café' pose, but Eddie, always the critic, leaned in and brushed my hair behind my ear. I was caught off guard. "Thanks. You're being quite the gentleman – what's gotten into you?" I asked. " You never were good at posing since childhood, so I just helped you click that perfect picture for your stargram" he replied. I rolled my eyes, slightly annoyed. His words had a grain of truth to them. Nevertheless, I posed for a few more pictures. "Now it's Samantha's turn," I said. "Samantha, can you give me your phone?" he asked, "Why? Can you click it with your phone?" she questioned. "I could, but my phone is about to die," Eddie replied. Samantha gave her phone to him and he clicked a few pictures for her. "Don't forget to send me those pictures." I reminded Eddie when he finished taking pictures of Samantha. "I can send you now if you want. I might forget afterwards." he replied, "But your phone doesn't have much battery, isn't it?" I asked. "Yes, but I have enough left to send the pictures," he assured me.

In the meantime, our order arrived – and they looked absolutely delightful. I took a bite of the pastry, and it was delicious. The perfect balance of sweetness, with a hint of cinnamon. I knew I'd be visiting this cafe many times in the future.

"By the way you are invited to my house tomorrow. " Eddie said as he dropped us in front of our house. "Okay, we'll be there," I confirmed with a smile. "Well see you tomorrow then" he said and drove away.

We headed inside, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment. "Today was so much fun," I remarked. "Yes, it really was," Samantha agreed. We were too exhausted to cook, so we ordered pizza from my favourite local spot. After eating, we went straight to bed. I scrolled through the photos Eddie had sent. They were perfect for Stagram. "I'll post them tomorrow," I thought. Suddenly, a realization hit me – Samantha hadn't been her usual bubbly self today. Did she feel excluded? Did she enjoy today's outing? I promised myself I'd make an extra effort to ensure she didn't feel left out tomorrow.

Sneak Peak to the next episode -  Samantha's POV