One Summer Day (BWWM)

CHAPTER 11

An hour later, we all arrived at the meet-up spot. We decided on bowling since it was the most cost-efficient option for all of us—being college students and all. As we entered the bowling alley, I was greeted by the smell of pizza and hotdogs. The soft blaring of "Sweater Weather" by The Neighbourhood surrounded us. The bowling alley was dimly lit with neon lights and dope murals painted on the walls as decor. After surveying the area, we walked to the counter to pay for expenses and get our shoes. Everyone walked away to our designated booth, but I stayed by the register to talk to the clerk.

"Hi, sorry to bother you, but I have a quick question," I asked.

"Of course, how can I help you?" the clerk replied nicely.

"Do you, by any chance, know who painted the murals on the wall? I'm a painter, and I wanted to talk to whoever did them. They're amazing!" I asked, hopeful.

"Unfortunately, I just started working here, but I can always ask my manager if I find him around," she said apologetically.

"Oh, don't worry about it. Thank you so much!" I quickly replied. "By the way, what's your name?" I asked.

"Vicky," she said.

"Thanks, Vicky. You're doing an awesome job," I said, smiling softly before walking away, catching her blushing a bit. Adorable.

I sat down to change into my bowling shoes and felt someone sit next to me. I turned to see Yon, smiling softly. Lately, we hadn't been seeing each other as much. We'd both been busy with life and, well... boys. Yes, I know. You don't even have to say anything.

"Babe, you need to tell Jeno that I was here first. You're mine," I said, mock-possessively, causing her to giggle.

"We need a girl's night—just us. No boys, no distractions," she suggested, nodding in agreement as I grabbed her elbow and led her to the bowling lane. I glanced at the boys, chatting animatedly. My eyes found Roman, and I saw him smiling. That made me smile softly. He definitely needed this.

"Let's do this, babe," I said to Yon, pulling her up. We walked toward the machine to put in our names. Yon went over to Jeno's side, and they whispered to each other lovingly. I smiled—love is so beautiful.

I approached the bowling balls, picking each one up to see which would work best for me. I was so focused I didn't notice someone approaching.

"Hi, Cléo," a voice said behind me, startling me. I turned to find Roman, hiding a smirk.

"Bro, don't sneak up on me like that!" I said, slightly annoyed. "Something funny to you?" I asked, playfully smacking his shoulder as he laughed, making me laugh too. Seeing him happy made me happy. It felt like the Roman from yesterday had disappeared and had been replaced with this joyful version.

"Sorry, it's just that you looked so scared—it was funny," he said, still chuckling. I stared at him for a moment before smirking.

"Whatever. Are you ready to be a sore loser?" I teased.

"Don't get cocky now. Some call me a pro bowler," he replied with exaggerated confidence.

"Oh, it's on! Loser does whatever the winner says," I declared, extending my hand toward him. "Shake on it."

"I wouldn't have it any other way," he replied, shaking my hand with a smirk.

"Guys, everything's set up, let's go!" Tako called, and we finally tore our eyes away from each other, walking toward the lane.

"Okay, guys, I'll go first!" I announced excitedly. Grabbing my bowling ball, I stepped up to the platform, focused on the pins, and pulled my arm back. I walked forward and swung the ball with a lot of momentum, only to watch it fall into the gutter. I froze in embarrassment. What the hell? I turned around with an awkward smile.

"Just warming up, guys," I laughed nervously, grabbing another ball. I took a deep breath, focused again, and boom—the ball rolled and only knocked down two pins. I groaned.

"Let a real master show you how it's done," I heard from behind me. Roman walked toward the lane as I returned to sit next to Tako, embarrassed.

"Cléo, it's okay," Tako reassured me. "Not everyone gets it on the first try."

But then Roman bowled a perfect strike, and I turned to Tako with an exasperated look.

"No, I think it's just me," I muttered. Tako tapped my shoulder sympathetically as he stood for his turn. He dapped Roman, who returned smirking at me.

"Ready to lose?" Roman teased, throwing his arm around my shoulders as we walked out of the bowling alley.

We had all decided to get some food afterward. Guess who had to pay? Yep, me.

We walked into a local diner, known for the best burgers and shakes in town. The door chimed, signaling our arrival, and we were greeted by the sweetest old lady. Normally, I don't like old people, but she was the kindest soul. She told us to sit anywhere and that she'd be right back with menus.

We found a booth and sat down. I was next to Yon and Jeno, with Tako and Roman across from us. A few minutes later, the old lady, Ms. Loretta, came over to take our orders. I opted for chicken and waffles. Yon and Jeno, sharing a big meal, ordered steak, fries, and mashed potatoes. Tako chose a sub with fries and a fruit bowl, while Roman got a basic burger and fries. Typical.

Jeno asked, "So, Rom, where have you been sleeping lately? Every time I come over to check, you're not in the room."

Roman and I both froze.

"Oh, babe, I told you. He's been staying at Cléo and mine's apartment," Yon replied absentmindedly.

Tako chuckled, "Dude, what? You've refused sleepovers since we were kids, and now you're staying at Cléo's? No offense, Cléo."

"None taken," I said, smirking lightly as I glanced at Roman, who was trying to hide behind his hands.

"Aww, is little Romy obsessed with me?" I teased him.

"Oh, shut up," he muttered before turning to Tako. "You're such a snitch bit—" But before he could finish, Ms. Loretta came over with our food, the smell wafting through the air.

"Here you go. I hope you all enjoy!" she said sweetly. "I'll be around if you need anything," she added before walking away.

I bowed my head, about to say grace, when I felt someone grab my hand. I looked up, surprised, to see Roman holding it.

"I-I want to say grace too," he murmured, and I couldn't help but smile at him. We clasped hands, bowed our heads, and said grace together. After a moment, we opened our eyes, still holding hands and smiling at each other. A stifled laugh broke the moment, and we quickly let go, both blushing. Not wanting to linger in the awkwardness, I excused myself to wash my hands and practically ran to the bathroom.

Once inside, I leaned over the sink, grinning at my reflection. The bathroom door opened, and I quickly looked away, fearing someone would see me acting weird. To my relief, it was Yon, smiling knowingly.

"Jagi, is there something you want to tell me?" she teased, approaching me.

I giggled. "It's just a small crush. I mean, how could I not?" I replied, drying my hands.

"Okay, but you're literally Cléo. You can barely stand to be around guys, and here you are, giggling and kicking your feet," she said, grinning.

I gave her a look, and she gave me one back before we both laughed.

"Come on, let's eat before our food gets cold," I said as we linked arms and walked out of the bathroom, still giggling.

Hi guys, I know I've been MIA for a while now, I didn't know which direction I wanted the book to go in but now I've done some research and found some inspiration so we are back and better than ever !! Please don't forget to vote and comment!!