A slow fall

Chapter 8 - Caleb

Nothing went as planned. 

Attempting to scare a room full of kids lead to an outcome we couldn't have predicted. We should have. Shane's unwavering doubt in our abilities and the humours nature of the task lead us into a false sense of security.

The evening progressed as to be expected. Once all the attendees had arrived Mary made a - much too long, not needed and downright boring - announcement and the activities commenced. Those on the 'livelier side' were scheduled first in an attempt to tire us out, before progressing into a bible read and then movie. The hope was that the soft noise and calmer atmosphere would lull most people to sleep, making the night easier for the volunteers.

The attendees were split into groups so we could play some games. Each volunteers managed their own group, and the more senior members patrolled the room, handed out games and aided where necessary. It was controlled 'fun'.

Friends were allowed to be placed together as long as they behaved, and the groups were relatively even.

One of the only volunteers I liked found us huddled in the back corner. Abbie sent us a sheepish smile as she plopped down within our circle, Dobble visible in her hands, held out to us like a peace offering. Abbie was one of the younger volunteers at only 22 and this was her first year helping out. She was training to be a high school teacher and thought the situation - monitoring and controlling a large group of youngsters - would offer some useful experience.

I didn't understand why anyone would want to surround themselves with angsty teenage on the daily, but who was I to judge.

Abbie had been a friend of mine for a few years now. When my brothers stopped attending Church events they became tiresome and lonely. Thankfully Abbie approached my sullen self one day and we grew closer ever since.

"Do you guys actually want to play, or just sit around and pretend?"

One thing I liked about Abbie was that she understood. She was always good at reading people's expressions and mannerisms in a way that I envied. There was something maternal about her, an innate desire to nurture and care regardless of one's age. I suppose that's why we were so close; comfort and love was something I sought, and she so freely gave.

"What did you bring?" Shane asked, eying the box in her hand cautiously.

"It's Dobble. I thought it was one of the better options."

"I say we play, may as well give it a go." Sometimes I needed a break from talking. My social battery didn't last long, its life span had decreased significantly over the years and now even simple conversations drained me.

I tried to persevere, but a battery can only last for so long.

"Okay, but someone needs to explain what to do."

Abbie smiled happily at our agreement and began explaining the rules. There was more than one way the card game could be played, all slight variations of the same, and she suggested we start with the most used one to familiarise ourselves with the concept.

"Easy right?" She questioned once explaining the rules. Marcus and Shane looked sceptical but agreed that after having a go they would pick it up. They did.

After playing a practice round we made it more of a competition – first to three. The problem with that was both Abby and Shane were fiercely competitive and soon our quiet corner became loud and rowdy.

"I was first!" Shane exclaimed when Abbie placed her card down. "Wait, wait!" He carried on when we continued to play despite his outcry and subsequent protests. The game was about speed and this cost him. He fumbled to get back in the game, but by that time had already lost.