𝐥𝐨𝐬𝐭

fifty four

Delphine

The bowling alley was alive with the sounds of laughter and the rhythmic clatter of bowling balls striking pins. It was one of those places that held a vibrant energy, a contrast to the calm I often sought. As I stepped inside, the bright lights overhead and the buzz of conversations wrapped around me, and I felt a mix of excitement and tranquility. Kaiden walked beside me, his presence a steady comfort amid the chaos.

Eliza and Ethan were already at our assigned lane, bantering playfully as they prepared for the game. "Delphine, there you are," Eliza called out, her voice carrying over the din of the alley.

I offered a small smile, nodding in acknowledgment. "I'm here. Ready to bowl."

"Don't go easy on us just because we're your friends," Ethan teased, feigning seriousness as he stretched out his arms, preparing to show off.

"I don't plan to," I replied, my voice steady and composed. I was focused on the game ahead, the familiar competitive spirit sparking within me.

As we donned our bowling shoes, I felt the anticipation build. I glanced at the shiny wooden lanes, recalling the last time I had been here. Bowling had always been a bit of an escape, a place where I could focus on the task at hand, the noise of the world fading into the background. This time, it felt different; I was here with friends, enjoying their company, and I felt a flicker of happiness at the thought.

"Ladies first," Ethan said, gesturing dramatically toward the lane.

I approached the lane, selecting a deep purple ball that felt just right in my hands. My focus sharpened as I stepped forward, positioning myself as I had practiced countless times before. With a deep breath, I released the ball, watching it roll smoothly down the lane. It curved perfectly, striking the pins with a satisfying crack.

"Strike," I announced calmly, turning back to face my friends, a slight smile on my lips.

"Not bad, Delphine," Kaiden said, leaning against the ball return with a look of appreciation. There was something in his eyes that made my heart skip slightly—a mix of admiration and respect.

Eliza took her turn next, and though she didn't score as high, her determination was infectious. "I'll get you next time," she said playfully, as she returned to the sidelines.

"I look forward to it," I replied, keeping my tone even as I settled back into my spot.

Kaiden stepped up for his turn, selecting a sleek black ball. I noticed the way he concentrated, a hint of seriousness in his expression as he lined up his shot. I admired the way he focused, and as he released the ball, I could tell it was a solid throw. It knocked down nearly all the pins, and I felt a sense of camaraderie swell within me.

"Nice shot," I remarked, genuine in my praise.

"Thanks," he replied, glancing at me with a small grin. There was a spark of connection in that moment, one I was slowly beginning to recognize.

As the game progressed, the banter between us flowed easily. I found myself laughing and exchanging friendly jibes with Eliza and Ethan, while Kaiden chimed in with his witty remarks. The competitive atmosphere was palpable, but it never overshadowed the joy of being together.

"Delphine, are you secretly a bowling prodigy?" Ethan asked with mock seriousness as I prepared for my next turn.

"I just practice a lot," I replied, shrugging lightly, but I felt a sense of pride swelling within me as I prepared for another shot.

When it was my turn again, I focused intently on the pins. I released the ball smoothly, and it sailed down the lane, striking again. I felt a sense of satisfaction as I returned to my friends, my demeanor calm and collected.

"Two in a row. She's on fire," Kaiden said, his eyes bright with amusement.

"I'm just getting started," I replied, maintaining my composure while enjoying the moment.

Eliza was up next, and her competitive spirit was apparent as she took her turn. She threw the ball with gusto, knocking down a few pins but not quite reaching the level of my strikes. "I'm warming up," she insisted, a playful pout on her lips.

"I believe you," I replied, appreciating her determination.

The game continued, each round full of laughter and lighthearted teasing. I focused on my technique, letting my instincts guide me. With each strike, I felt the connection with my friends deepen, the atmosphere growing warmer and more inviting.

"Alright, this is it," Eliza declared as she took her next shot, a look of fierce concentration on her face.

"Let's see what you've got," I encouraged, genuinely curious to see her progress.

Ethan, watching from the sidelines, joked about how he would outscore us all, but I could see the good-natured rivalry bringing us closer together. I had always been a competitive person, but I had never been as open about it as I was tonight.

As we wrapped up the rounds, I found myself at the top of the scoreboard. I didn't need to boast; my calm demeanor conveyed everything. "Good game, everyone," I said, my tone steady as we reviewed the scores.

Eliza and Ethan groaned playfully at their placements, while Kaiden simply smiled, leaning against the wall. I caught his gaze and felt a rush of warmth.

"I'll drive," Ethan said, breaking the momentary silence. "I can't let you guys suffer in my presence."

"I'm fine with taking Kaiden's car," I replied, looking at him.

"Sounds good to me," he agreed, a hint of relief in his voice.

With playful arguing over who would drive settled, we made our way to the parking lot. The cool evening air was refreshing as we approached Kaiden's car. He opened the door for me, and I slid into the passenger seat, taking in the scent of leather and a hint of his cologne.

The drive was easy and relaxed, Kaiden maintaining a comfortable speed as we navigated the quiet streets. The music playing softly in the background felt like the perfect soundtrack for our evening. I watched the city lights flicker by, enjoying the fleeting moments of solitude.