"Checkmate," I said, extending my hand to the increasingly frustrated man. As we shook hands, I met his gaze with a triumphant smile. My first victory of the year. I stood up, circled my name on the score sheet that determined the winner, and walked away.
"LIZZ!" my friend shouted, breaking the concentration of the nearby players. I turned around, spotting Maddie. "Maddie, lower your voice. There are people playing," I said, giggling at her enthusiasm.
She gave me a playful look. "It's not like anyone is going to get distracted by my laugh." She tugged on my arm, asserting her presence. "Well, I hope not," I replied, smirking as her face paled slightly.
We walked a few steps before resuming our conversation. "So, did you win?" she asked.
"Yeah," I replied, grinning. "Did you?"
"Yeah," she repeated. "We've just started, and I'm already nervous about the future," she admitted, glancing at me sideways.
A few months later...
"Dude, it's race week!" Maddie exclaimed, jumping on top of me.
I groaned, grabbing a pillow and playfully swatting her with it. "You and your cars," I muttered as I sat up. "Why didn't you become a driver?" I asked, feigning curiosity.
"You know my father said I'd never make it, but I knew he was wrong. We just didn't have the money for me to get into a sport like that," she said, staring up at the ceiling.
"I'm sorry about that," I said, laying back down next to her and looking up as well. "But hey, if you hadn't gotten into chess, we might never have met."
I was slowly getting out of bed when I told Maddie, "I can't believe I have to head to Russia for the match." I shook my head in disbelief.
"What, you don't think you're any good?" she asked with a mischievous look.
"If you don't want to go, I'd gladly take your place," she said, getting up and speed-walking out of the room.
I stretched my arms and yawned, shaking off the lingering sleepiness. As I pulled on a comfortable sweater and jeans, I thought about the upcoming trip. It was going to be a big challenge, but also an incredible opportunity. I couldn't help but feel a mix of excitement and nerves. Especially against Alexandra Kosteniuk, I won't lie that I did watch some of her matches for the title of womens world championship.
As I fixed the bed and my things in order, I headed out of the room and made my way to the kitchen. When I started to smell, freshly brewed coffee and sizzling bacon greeted me.
Saying hi to maddie again like we didn't just see each other moments ago. I started to grab a mug from the cabinet and pouring myself some coffee
Then I turned back to where maddie was and glanced at the assortment of breakfast items Maddie had laid out. The sight of pancakes, eggs, and fruit was a comforting reminder of home.
We sat down and chatted about our plans for the day while eating. Maddie filled me in on the latest racing updates, and I shared some thoughts about the upcoming chess match. It was a routine breakfast, but today felt special.
First chapter of the book! I so nervous I going to try to post once or twice a week if I can! Mostly like post a few chapters this week so it isn't just one chapter on this book. well hope you like the chapter<3
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