When Sunflowers wither...

Let's go ✨ BOWLING ✨

The next day Hawks did indeed bring me to the bowling alley and I was just a bit surprised how everyone let him just walk out of the hospital with me. They all made him promise to get me back and they all told me to be back around 6 pm. I am save to actually be outside with the hero and all the staff members in this hospital were super friendly and worrying a lot about me. It felt really wrong and weird.

Anyways.... I walked into the bowling alley with Hawks, the air filled with the sounds of crashing pins and excited chatter. 

Wow...

A lot of people are here.

They seem to have fun judging from the sounds and laughter.

Is it that much fun?

Will I also feel the fun?

I highly doubt that...

I should still try and make Hawks happy at least.

He is trying quite hard after all....

Let's just give this a shot for now...

Hawks carried a heavy, shiny ball with swirls of blue and green. I looked at the rows of bowling balls, trying to find one that looked friendly. Hawks found one for me, a smaller, bright orange ball that fit my fingers just right.

Hawks: Alright, buddy, first, we have to pick our lane.

Hawks smiling down at me as if he was having a blast just being here. I could tell he was thinking I would enjoy it but for now it was nothing but just a crowded place.  

He tapped a screen, and a lane lit up just for us.

I watched as Hawks put on his special bowling shoes and helped me with mine. They felt strange, like stiff slippers. 

Hawks: These will help you slide.

Hawks showed me how to stand at the beginning of the lane. He talked about the arrows on the floor and how they could help guide the ball. I tried to remember everything, but it was a lot to take in.

Hawks: Watch me first.

He stepped forward with confidence, swinging his ball smoothly before releasing it. It rolled straight down the lane and crashed into the pins, sending them flying in all directions. I stared, amazed. Not gonna lie this was definitely louder and looked more complext than to just simply throw the ball.... it was gliding and there had to be a trick to all this. I was a bit intruiged how this was working.

Hawks: Your turn.

Hhe said that while handing me my orange ball. It felt heavy in my hands, but I was determined to give it my best shot. Hawks stood behind me, guiding my arms and showing me how to swing.

Hawks: Take a step forward and let it go.

I took a deep breath, stepped forward, and swung the ball. It rolled slowly, wobbling from side to side, and finally plopped into the gutter. My heart sank a little, but Hawks ruffled my hair.

Hawks: Great first try! Let's do it again. This time, try to keep your arm straight and follow through.

I nodded and tried again. This time, the ball stayed on the lane a bit longer before veering off. It wasn't perfect, but it was better.

Hawks kept showing me different tips, like how to aim and how to keep my wrist straight. With each try, I felt a little more confident. Eventually, one of my rolls knocked over a few pins, and I jumped with joy.

I didn't even notice I did that at all until Hawks open his arms as if he was inviting me for a hug. I didn't think twice and went for it. It was only at this moment that I realized that I felt something... I wasn't sure how to describe it but it was bubbly and not empty and it felt pleasant.

Hawks: Nice job! See, I told you? You're getting the hang of it.

We spent the afternoon bowling, and I improved bit by bit. Hawks was patient, always encouraging me and showing me new techniques. By the end of the day, I even managed to get a spare, which Hawks said was really impressive for a beginner.

As we left the bowling alley, my hands were sore but my heart was happy.  I thought I forgot this feeling but right now, I did feel happy. It was there for a short time and this was something I tried so hard to feel for years and yet never did.... one day with this chicken and I managed to feel this happy?

Was it this easy to feel happiness?

Did I even deserve this?

Right now... I had to admit it...  I didn't care.

This change was pleasant and I was kinda curious to see how Hawks would make me feel different in the next couple of days. Though this was definitely a surprise. He never ever did tell me I had to atick in this bowling alley. Instead he was looking after me and whenever I was tired, we would make a break. I didn't had to tell him anything at all.... he just knew....

Me: Thanks you.....

It was close to a whisper but I managed to tell him that. 

He didn't react but he certainly did smile brighter.