FreeNovelIsabel was practically buzzing with excitement, and Brittany found herself being swept up in her friend's enthusiasm as they edged
their way through the crowd.
They found themselves in what appeared to be a well-established chess club, its size impressive but clearly showing the wear and
tear of many years.
The chessboards, worn smooth from endless games, were the battleground for two elderly gentlemen.
Their hair white with time, they were dressed in what could only be described as classic vests, fans in hand, exuding a laid-back
vibe that barely concealed theirpetitive spirit.
The black and white chess pieces were locked in a fierce battle that had already lasted over an hour, yet neither side seemed close
to conceding defeat.
It was clear they were both masters of their craft.
The spectators, seasoned players themselves, adhered to the unspoken rule of observing in silence, a true mark of respect among
chess aficionados, though each undoubtedly harbored their own opinions on the game.
The intensity of the gramped up, and Brittany's eyes were drawn to the player wielding the black pieces, who seemed to have
the upper hand.
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That the player with the white pieces had managed to hold on for over an hour was no small feat.
But as the end seemed near, it becapparent the older gentleman was flagging.
"Ha! Ronan, you've lost," the victorious player with the black pieces declared with a hearty laugh.
Ronan pouted, "Oh,e on, Grayson, how could you do this to me? A retired pro against an amateur like myself? How could you
even celebrate beating me?"
"How long has it been since I've retired, huh?"
Grayson's laugh was even more pronounced, "Lost fair and square, pal. You're buying breakfast tomorrow!"
Ronan grumbled, clearly not thrilled at the prospect but accepting the defeat nheless.
As Grayson made to leave, a voice piped up,
"May | play a gwith you?"
It was Brittany, unable to resist the pull of the game.
Grayson glanced at her, "Lass, if we play, no tears if you lose, alright?"
Brittany simply grinned, "If | lose, I'll cover your breakfast for the whole next week."
At that, Grayson couldn't help but agree, amused by her boldness.
Ronan stood up, cautioning Brittany, "Young lady, think this through. Grayson's no easy opponent!"
The surrounding crowd, too, seemed to echo Ronan's sentiments, clearly aware of Grayson's skill level.
Could this young woman really last even ten minutes against him?
"I'd like to give it a try," Brittany stated, her interest in chess having been reignited recently after a break from her busy career to
focus on personal growth. She'd been practicing at hand was eager to test her skills.
"Please, after you," she gestured to Grayson to make the first move.
He raised an eyebrow, "Alright, I'll give you a three-piece handicap."
It was a gesture of consideration, given her youth, to avoid any criticism.
Brittany simply smiled in response.
As the gamemenced, Brittany's approach to chess was strikingly aggressive, each move made with a sharpness that seemed
at odds with her outward demeanor.
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Grayson, initially not taking her too seriously, began to view her with a newfound curiosity as the gintensified.
"Have you studied this game?" he asked, impressed.
"Just played with family members growing up. Picked it up that way," Brittany replied honestly.
As they continued, even without formal training, Brittany held her own, challenging Grayson with every move.
Isabel watched in awe, having never seen Brittany's hidden talent in action, especially against a seasoned player like Grayson, who
after nearly an hour had to admit defeat.
"I didn't expect to actually win," Brittany admitted, offering her respects, "Thank you."
Grayson waved off the thanks, "What's your name, lass?"
Brittany, not wanting to reveal too much about herself, replied, "It's getting late; | should be going. Mr. Grayson, perhaps we'll meet
again."
After she left, Grayson stared at the board, replaying the gin his mind, utterly convinced of his defeat.
Ronan couldn't help but tease, "Grayson, beaten by a young lady—"
"And | beat you too!" Grayson retorted, his demeanor calm and collected.
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