I read the sign:Nostalgia Parkade: Bowling, Roller Rink, and Arcade.
“No fucking way,” I mutter.
“I pegged you as the competitive type. Am I right?”
This time, I don’t hold back my excitement. “You’re going to regret ever asking me out, All-star.”
“I highly doubt that, sweetness.”
I grit my teeth. “You know…what happened to Captain? Let’s go back to that.”
“Not how that works,” Adam says, getting out of his car then rounding the side to open my door.
“That’s what you think.” I take his hand as I step out of his car. “I have a way of getting exactly what I want.”
Chapter 6
Adam
Mia’s eyes light up as we walk into the massive building with overwhelming neon lights, nineties music slightly too loud playing over the speaker, and retro black and white flooring.
I could have asked every single guy on our team for a first-date spot, and I can almost guarantee you that not a single one of them would have said this place. I nearly ditched the idea, to be honest, when I saw her standing on the sidewalk. Mia deserves to be wined and dined, but something in my gut knew this was better for a first impression. I can take her to a fancy restaurant on our second date.
But for tonight, I want to lean into this playful chemistry we’ve had, and sitting at a candlelit table just isn’t the place for that.
“So, what’s first?” Mia asks, trying to mask her glee, but with the way she keeps eyeing the arcade, I think I know the answer.
“I was thinking I’ll kick your ass in the arcade, then we’ll grab some food from the concession, then maybe I’ll let you win at bowling.”
Mia scoffs with amusement. “I know you’re baiting me, but I prefer that order, so I’ll allow it for now.”
“Trust me, Mia, I’m looking forward to you beating me at every single game.”
Mia sends her hair over her shoulder. “You could have warned me, and I would’ve brought my hair clip.”
“Strategic move on my part. I need any advantage I can get here.”
Stepping up in line, I get us unlimited-play wristbands, and Mia raises her left arm for me to put it on her.
“Adam,” she says cautiously. “It’s possible that I get a little out of hand with my competitive streak, so before we start, I have to say, this was a great idea. You’ve impressed me…but only a bit.”
“My ego isn’t fragile, Mia.” Letting go of her arm, I meet her eyes. “In fact, with that comment it might be just a little inflated.”
Mia chuckles, poking one finger against my chest. “Let’s go pop it, shall we?”
Holding out my hand, I let her lead the way.
Mia walks through the entire arcade, taking note of every game available. I can see it written all over her face—her plotting my demise. It’s something to admire. Mia carries herself in a way that leaves zero room for guesses or interpretation.
She pauses toward the back wall and this mischievous grin comes to her face as she spins on her heels. “Alright, All-star, I know you can throw a ball, but can you roll one?” Mia holds her hands out, showcasing the Skee Ball machines in front of her.
“You’ll beat me at more than one game—but not this one.”
Mia scoffs, stepping backward toward the row of alleys, with this wicked gleam in her eyes. Spinning away from me, she scans the band on her wrist. The balls tumble down the alley, clacking against each other. She picks one up and doesn’t hesitate as she rolls it. It sinks right into the corner spot.
Looking my way, she doesn’t say a word, simply pinches her fingers as if she’s holding a needle, then mouths,Pop.
I can’t help but laugh. Squeezing in next to her, I scan mine on the lane to her left. A gentleman would probably take it easy on their date, but that’ll seal my fate of never getting to take her out again.
