5. Chapter 5

Chapter 5

Sam

The sharp sound of bowling pins crashing against each other reverberated through the dimly lit and smoky alley, mixing with the boisterous laughter and lively chatter of people enjoying their night. It struck me as odd as I watched everyone seem so carefree. No one was glued to their phones or busy on conference calls. I couldn't remember the last time I went out unless it was a business event. I doubted there was corporate talk happening in this bowling alley. We had all agreed to spend the evening together, seeking refuge from their monotonous routines in a friendly game of bowling and some cold beer. As silly as it sounds, I was looking forward to this night, not just because I was going to be on Ava's team, but because I could relax and not worry about work for a night.

"When was the last time you bowled?" Tyler asked me as he laced up his hideous rental shoes.

"Maybe high school," I said.

"So, like a hundred years ago," Lydia laughed.

I chuckled as I flipped her off. This was the kind of fun banter I needed.

As Tyler confidently stepped up to take his turn, his gaze lingered on Lydia, who stood next to him with her dark hair cascading over her shoulders and a mischievous twinkle in her eyes. It was cute how Tyler still looked at Lydia. He was head over heels in love with her, and I was so happy for them.

"Hey, looks like we may win this game. Tyler can't keep his eyes off Lydia," Ava joked, sitting down next to me.

"Maybe we can use his puppy love against him," I laughed.

"I doubt it. They are always like this," Ava explained. "I'm really happy for them. Though, it does suck for us single losers," she laughed, though I heard the pain in her tone.

"You aren't a loser. Anyone who would walk away from you is the real loser," I stated flatly.

Ava laughed as Tyler went up to the lane. He grabbed a big blue ball, which he made several sexual jokes about, and then got into position to launch his ball toward the pins.

Ava's eyes went wide, but she didn't say anything. We watched as Tyler's ball flew down the lane and knocked down five large, white pins. The sound echoed over the music and chatter.

Jumping, Tyler pumped his fist in the air. "Not bad," he congratulated himself.

We all laughed as he sauntered back over to us. Lydia gave him a kiss while Ava and I booed.

"Sure, if you are twelve," I sneered playfully.

"Let's see you guys go," Lydia prompted, hugging her man.

As I took my turn, I halfheartedly tossed the ball down the lane. Ava's turn was next, and I couldn't help but watch as her hips swayed with each step toward the lane. The dim lighting in the bowling alley emphasized her curves, and my eyes were immediately drawn to her tight, plump ass. I could feel Tyler's gaze on me, but I couldn't tear my eyes away from the beautiful sight in front of me.

The men in the building were also watching Ava, and it was no surprise. She was a goddess among women. When she launched her ball down the lane, it struck all the pins and got a strike.

"Hell yeah, Ava!" Lydia cheered, earning a groan from Tyler, who reminded her that they were on the opposing team. But even he couldn't help but clap and smile at Ava's impressive shot.

I couldn't contain my excitement as I jumped up and rushed over to Ava. She ran into my arms, and I twirled her around, both of us laughing and smiling.

"That was great," I cheered for her.

"You must be my lucky charm," Ava laughed. "We make a great team."

At that moment, she was utter perfection. She was light in my arms and smelled like lavender. Despite being in the middle of a game, holding her like this felt like heaven. And even if we were just having fun, I knew I would cherish every moment with this stunning woman in my arms.

By the end of the evening, Ava and I had won the game. Tyler was a sore loser, which made our win that much better. Heading back to the apartment, Ava and I laughed about our game, talking and sharing stories. It was exactly what I wanted and my first step in winning her heart.