Natalia Campbell. 17
my sneakers. The hum of the city fades, replaced by the distant sound of bells and digital beeps. I look around, confused at first, then my eyes land on the neon sign above a nearby building.
No way.
An arcade?
I couldn’t help it—my lips twitch in the smallest of smiles.
This bwoy serious? A big ol’ arcade? A mi age group dis? I thought, shaking my head
"Come on, yuh sitdung like ya wait pon judgement daii," he says over his shoulder, already walking towards the entrance.
Hate him.
I roll my eyes, but my feet follow without much argument. The door swings open, and the wave of cool air inside hits me like a blast of nostalgia. The scent of popcorn mixes with the faint smell of old plastic and, of course, sweaty teens who've probably been here for hours.
Mi nah lie, this is kinda cute though
I glance at him to see him already looking at me, I smile looking away and I heard him chuckle.
I look around at the rows of flashing screens, some with people furiously mashing buttons, others standing in small groups laughing and shouting.
"Any specific reason why you brought me to an arcade?" I finally ask.
He shrugged, his face had a small smile on it "Neva wah bring yuh out to a fancy place because yuh nuh properly dressed,"
I roll my eyes "I could go in a bath suit and still look presentable excuse," I walk from him.
"Bet ya can't beat me at any of these," he says, glancing at me with a smirk that practically screams challenging trouble.
Fuss mhi a see him live this, I kinda like it.
"Oh please, like yuh even know how fhi play games," I shoot back, walking beside him.
"Try me, haad ears"
My mind races as I plot how to humble him.
We approach a classic racing game, two seats side by side with shiny steering wheels and pedals ready for action. He slides into one of the chairs smoothly, his long legs sprawling out comfortably.
Damn, the man look effortlessly hot.
I hesitate for just a second before sitting down next to him, eyeing the screen.
This nuh so bad, mhi can handle dis
"You ready to lose?" he asks, hitting the start button like he’s a pro.
Pro at his looks.
Murdaa.
"Iss like yuh forget yuh ah chat to me," I reply, gripping the steering wheel, mentally preparing for a showdown.
The countdown begins. 3... 2... 1...
We both press down on the pedals at the same time, and the race begins. He speeds off, immediately taking the lead, and I grit my teeth.
Focus, focus, focus!
Sounds like an impossible task to me right now. He looks so relaxed while beating my ass.
For the first few moments, it looks like he’s got the upper hand, but then I hit a power boost. My car zooms forward, taking sharp turns, dodging obstacles, and soon enough I’m right on his tail. I hear him mutter something under his breath as I zoom past him.
