Eric

The evening was warm and calm. You and your friends strolled through the city, sometimes laughing so loudly that passersby turned around. You had no plans—you just wandered wherever your eyes led. On one of the streets, you spotted a billiards club. Through the large windows, you could see the tables and the yellow glow of the lamps. Mia:
"Maybe we should go in?" You exchange glances and agree. As you step inside, you're greeted by soft music and the sound of balls bouncing. A group of guys is playing at a distant table. They're chatting, sometimes laughing. One of them takes a precise shot and hits it. You can't help but linger on him. He's tall, wearing a dark T-shirt, with tousled hair. His eyes are different colors: one is blue, the other is brown, almost black. You and your friends take the next table. Lee:
— Who can play?
I:
"I only tried it once." You try to arrange the balls, but it's going weird. Everyone starts arguing. You look up and notice the guy looking at you. He says something to his friends and comes closer. Eric:
"Are you going to play like this?" He adjusts the balls.
"The pyramid needs to be tighter. Want me to show you?" He leans over and makes a precise shot. The balls scatter across the table. From the next table, his friends' voices can be heard: "Eric, you're actually playing with us." Eric grins.

• Wait a minute. He looks at you and holds out the cue.
• Now you try.