The Most Dangerous Game

Story Submitted by Samantha:

Kyle and I met at church. He was a bright and caring young man, and I couldn't believe that he wasn't taken. He invited me out to dinner at a small restaurant that had board games available for its patrons.

We ordered drinks and an appetizer, then pulled out a checkerboard and some checkers. He said, "Let's make a deal on the outcome of this game."

I liked his playful style, so I told him, "Name your terms!"

He said, "If you win, which you won't, we can split any dessert you want. If I win... it's a surprise."

I said, "I can't commit unless I know what I stand to lose."

He said, "I'll give you a hint: are you a virgin?"

My good feelings flash-evaporated. Really? Really?

I said, "I don't think I'm up for anything like that tonight."

He said, "Then you'd better hope you win!"

I played the game, although I had no intention of doing anything sexual with him, either way. At one point, I excused myself to use the restroom and when I returned, I found an extra couple of kings on the board — his, of course. By then, I meant to beat him no matter what.

It was tough going, and at one point his pieces outnumbered mine nearly two to one, but I was able to king all of my pieces and best him with only two kings left.

"So," I said sweetly, "Which dessert do you want to split?"

He said, "You shouldn't have beat me. That's bullshit."

"Cheating usually works for you?"

"Fuck you. I'm not a cheater."

Something about the way he said it made me think that he was channeling his sexual frustration into a simmering rage. I wanted to end the date as quickly and carefully as possible.

I suggested, "Let's order a dessert."

"I don't want dessert."

I asked him if he wanted to leave and he said that he didn't care, so I asked for the check. He said, "We're splitting. I don't pay unless I know I'm getting some."

I put down $20 and said, "I'm sorry that I'm not a prostitute."

"It's a shame you're an idiot," he said.

"Are referring to sex with you? Actually, I consider my decision one of the smartest I've ever made."

He jumped out of his seat, knocking it over, and leaned at me as if he meant me harm. I didn't flinch. He left me there with the entire check.

When I explained the situation to the management, they were very understanding and only charged me for my portion of the meal. When I explained the situation to my pastor (as I said, Kyle and I met at church), he told me to forgive Kyle and not to worry.

The next week, I didn't see Kyle at church, and when I did see him again, he wouldn't even make eye contact with me.