AVA, A different Radioapple fanfiction

Skaters pt 2

The sun blazed overhead as Adam and Ava arrived at the local skate park, the vibrant energy of the place buzzing with excitement. Skateboards clacked against the pavement, and laughter rang out as kids of all ages navigated the ramps and rails. Adam felt a rush of exhilaration at the sight—this was where he had spent countless hours during his own childhood, and now, he was here to create new memories with Ava.

"Look at that big ramp, Adam! Can I try it?" Ava exclaimed, her eyes wide with wonder.

"Let's start small first," Adam replied, a cautious smile on his face. "We'll work our way up to that one."

They found a flat area where Ava could practice her balance, and Adam guided her through a few simple maneuvers. Laughter and shouts filled the air as they skated side by side, the bond between them growing stronger with every push of the board.

After a while, Adam noticed a group of teenagers nearby, their laughter ringing out louder than the rest. At first, he paid them little mind, but as he watched, his heart sank. The group started to notice Ava, their smirks widening as they approached.

"Hey, look at the little loser on her tiny skateboard!" one of the teenagers taunted, his voice dripping with mockery. "What are you doing here? This isn't a playground!"

Ava's smile faltered, her confidence waning as she glanced up at Adam, seeking reassurance. Adam's jaw tightened, anger bubbling just beneath the surface.

"Leave her alone," Adam snapped, stepping forward to shield Ava from their jeers.

The ringleader of the group—a tall, lanky boy with a cocky grin—stepped closer, a sneer on his face. "What are you gonna do about it? You're just a washed-up loser trying to play dad. She doesn't belong here!"

"Watch it, man. She's just a kid," Adam warned, his voice low and dangerous.

"Why don't you make us?" the boy challenged, his friends snickering behind him, emboldened by their leader's bravado.

That was all it took. Adam felt the heat rise in his chest, a protective instinct taking over. "You want to see what I can do?" he growled, stepping toward the group.

Before he could think twice, he lunged forward, his fist connecting with the boy's jaw. The crack of impact echoed through the park, and the bully stumbled back, shock and disbelief painted across his face.

The other teens quickly realized the seriousness of the situation and rushed in, but Adam was ready. He moved with an intensity fueled by adrenaline, throwing punches and dodging blows as the scene erupted into chaos. Ava watched, wide-eyed, a mix of fear and admiration swirling within her.

"Stop it! Please!" Ava cried out, her voice cutting through the noise as she clutched her skateboard tightly.

In that moment, Adam paused, catching a glimpse of her terrified expression. It brought him back to reality. He wasn't here to fight; he was here to protect her. With a deep breath, he pulled back, his fists clenched but his posture defensive rather than aggressive.

"Back off! This isn't worth it!" Adam shouted at the remaining teens, who hesitated, glancing at one another in confusion.

The ringleader groaned on the ground, holding his jaw as he glared at Adam. "You'll regret this," he spat, scrambling to his feet with the help of his friends. They slowly backed away, realizing they were outmatched and that the fun had turned sour.

As the group retreated, Adam turned to Ava, who was now standing a few feet away, her eyes wide with concern. "Are you okay?" he asked, kneeling down to her level.

"I... I'm fine," Ava stammered, her voice barely above a whisper. "But that was scary."

Adam reached out, pulling her into a gentle hug. "I'm sorry you had to see that. I just wanted to protect you. You did nothing wrong, and you belong here just as much as anyone else."

"I know, but..." She pulled back, looking up at him, her small brow furrowed. "Do you think they'll come back?"

"Not if they know what I'm willing to do to keep you safe," Adam replied, a protective glint in his eyes. "But if they do, we'll face them together, alright? You're never alone in this."

Ava nodded, reassured by his words. As they walked back to the skate area, Adam couldn't shake the feeling of anger that lingered in his chest. He had wanted to show Ava how fun skating could be, but now, all he could think about was the darkness that lurked in places like this.

Despite the earlier chaos, Ava soon found her footing again, and together they continued to skate, laughter slowly replacing the tension in the air. They practiced tricks and navigated the ramps, Adam encouraging her every step of the way.

As the sun began to dip low in the sky, painting the horizon in hues of orange and pink, Adam felt a sense of victory. They had conquered a challenge together, and though the day had taken an unexpected turn, it had brought them closer.

And that, he realized, was what truly mattered.