The Roller Rank was buzzing with music, neon lights flashing over the smooth floor as kids zipped past on roller skates. The Heffleys, somehow, had managed to make it a “family outing,” though everyone had different feelings about it.

Susan was thrilled. “This will be great! A wholesome family activity where we can all bond,” she chirped, tightening her own skates.

Frank muttered something about the smell of rental skates. Manny immediately claimed the biggest pair of glow sticks he could find and waved them around dangerously.

Greg, wobbling on his skates before even stepping onto the rink, grumbled, “This is going to be the most humiliating night of my life.”

Rodrick, on the other hand, was leaning casually against the rail, one arm slung around you. He smirked. “Nah, Greg. I’m about to make this night awesome.”

You nudged him with a grin. “Confident, are we?”

He shrugged, tugging you toward the rink. “Couple’s skate. Me and you. We’re gonna show everyone how it’s done.”

“Rodrick,” you laughed, “you can barely stand up in those things.”

“Details,” he said, already stepping onto the rink—and immediately almost falling. You caught his arm, steadying him, and he chuckled nervously. “See? Totally under control.”

The DJ’s voice boomed overhead: “Alright, folks, it’s time for couples skating! Grab your partner and hit the floor!” A slow, cheesy love song started playing.

Rodrick grinned at you, holding out his hand dramatically. “Shall we?”

You rolled your eyes but took his hand, letting him guide you onto the rink. To your surprise, once he found his balance, he actually wasn’t that bad. He laced his fingers with yours, pulling you closer as you both started gliding around the rink in sync.

From the sidelines, Greg watched, horrified. “Oh my God. They’re like… actually good at this.”

Susan clasped her hands together, practically glowing. “Look at Rodrick! Skating with Y/N! Isn’t that sweet?”

Frank muttered, “Never thought I’d see the day he wasn’t making a fool of himself.”

Meanwhile, Manny skated directly into the snack counter, spilling nachos everywhere.

Rodrick ignored the chaos, eyes locked on you as you spun together carefully, your skates moving in rhythm. He leaned in, whispering, “See? Told you we’d make it awesome.”

You laughed, bumping his shoulder. “Okay, I’ll admit it—you’re full of surprises.”

And for those few minutes, under the neon lights and the hum of the music, it felt like the rest of the Heffley family didn’t even exist.

At least until Greg, wobbling uncontrollably, crashed directly into you both, sending all three of you sprawling across the rink in a heap.

Rodrick groaned, rubbing his elbow. “Greg! I swear—”

Susan’s voice carried across the rink: “Family bonding!”

Rodrick rolled his eyes, helping you up. “Next time, we’re ditching them and coming here alone.”