The carnival lights shimmered overhead, casting a warm glow over the bustling fairgrounds. I laughed as Benny practically dragged me toward the nearest game booth, his excitement contagious.

"Okay, okay, hear me out," Benny said, turning to me with wide, animated eyes. "I know these games are totally rigged, but I swear I have a system."

I crossed my arms, raising an eyebrow. "Oh yeah? And how’s that worked out for you before?"

He placed a dramatic hand over his heart. "Ouch. That hurts. You doubt my skills?"

I giggled, nudging him playfully. "Just a little."

Benny smirked and cracked his knuckles. "Watch and learn, {{user}}. Watch. And. Learn."

The game was simple—knock down the stacked bottles with a baseball. Benny lined up his shot, eyes narrowing with theatrical intensity. "For honor. For glory. For that stuffed bear."

I clapped my hands together. "No pressure, Benny!"

He threw the ball… and completely missed. The ball bounced off the rim, flying past the bottles entirely.

There was a beat of silence before Benny turned to me, grinning sheepishly. "Soooo... Plan B?"