Page 61 of Bumping into You

“We have time for a game of ping pong before trivia if you’re interested,” he offers.

“I’m game. Though, as you know, I can be a bit competitive.”

“Seems so. I’m not complaining though. It worked out quite nicely for me last time.” He grins at me and squeezes my handlightly.

“You’re incorrigible,” I laugh, bumping him with my hip, as we walk around to our spots at the ping pong table.

Niall takes one side, grasping the paddle with a confident grip. His eyes lock on me, an inviting smile playing on his lips. I stand opposite him equally poised, excitement and determination coursing through me.See, I can have some fun; I’m not always all work and no play.

The table seems to stretch between us like a stage for our duel. I lightly drop the ball, the soft thud echoing in my ear, marking the beginning of our match.

The ball sails easily through the air, a white streak of anticipation. My serve is crisp and well-calculated, bouncing near the edge of the table, a challenge Niall is more than willing to accept.

He responds with a swift return, his focus unwavering and his grin never leaving his face. His eyes dance with his excitement from the game.

Frick, why is that so sexy?

I may not have as much confidence in my swings, since it’s been years since I’ve played, but I’m able to meet his shots with grace, my eyes staying locked onto the ball as if my life depends on it. The occasional times I glance up at him cause chills to run through me, excitement and a promise of a good time filling me with both exhilaration and nerves.

Gone is our light banter. We are both focused on the task at hand, neither of us willing to back down. I send a particularly tricky shot to Niall, sending the ball skimming just above the net.

His response is swift and unexpected, the ball ricocheting off his paddle with finesse and leaving me momentarily stunned. Applause from nearby observers adds to the electric atmosphere, turning our private game into a small show.

I’m happy. It’s nice to take a break from stressing abouteverything all the time.

Niall wins, and while the competitive part of me is upset, he is just so happy that I can’t help but be happy too.

“I guess you do have a bit of the luck of the Irish,” I say. “You were bound to win at something eventually.”

“You didn’t just say that,” Niall laughs throwing his head back, his whole body shaking from laughter. Pure joy radiates from him, his laughter infectious as I join in.

Glancing at his watch, he turns it to me, “Looks like it’s about time we head over to the Knight’s Tavern.”

Nodding, I set down my paddle and follow him. I’m beginning to think Niall could make anything fun. Usually, I get so competitive that I lose sight of the fun, but with him, he makes just eating nachos or sitting on the beach exciting.

The Knight’s Tavern is a haven of twinkling lights and cozy corners. Decorations of fishing nets, crab boxes, and images of krakens and shipping vessels line the walls. By the time we get there, the others are already sitting near the piano where the trivia host is setting up his station.

We sit down just in time as the trivia host picks up his microphone. “Welcome, everyone, to the Way Late Trivia Challenge!” The host’s voice booms, sending a ripple of excitement through the large crowd.

I’m honestly surprised by the amount of people here with it being so late, but I guess on a cruise people are awake at all hours.

“We’re about to embark on a journey through the realm of random facts and knowledge,” the host continues enthusiastically. “I hope you all are ready! If you haven’t picked up your paper and pencil, we have plenty up here for everyone.”

A few people move to pick up their pencils and papers then head back to their groups.

Glancing around at our group of six, I see that Margot isleaning forward in her seat, determined and ready for the questions to start. Niall, sitting comfortably next to me, oozes confidence and a laid-back charm. Catching my gaze, he gives me a flirty smile. Holly holds the pencil and paper poised and ready to go.

Next to her, my brother sits giving Holly an endearing smile. They really are so perfect for each other; I don’t know why I didn’t see it sooner. And then there is Trent. His face is already adorned with a mischievous grin. Smacking his hands together in excitement, Trent says, “Let’s get this party started!”

The host chuckles at his exuberance, picks up the microphone, and announces, “Without further ado, let’s dive into your first question!”

The question is called out, and Margot whispers the answer to Holly, then says, “I’ve got this one, guys. Prepare to be amazed at my medical knowledge!”

The questions continue, each one a unique challenge that showcases our group’s strengths and quirky hobbies.

“I’d be surprised if we don’t win this thing outright,” says Niall.

“Shh,” I slap him on the arm, “You can’t say things like that in the middle of a game. You’ll jinx us!”

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