Down to the Basement

Like anyone else in middle class suburbia, Tara had a large basement. Her brother dominated it mostly, therefore most of the space was taken up by gym equipment. In the windowless basement, he did have a large wrestling type mat. It would do.

They tramped downstairs as they were. The mat was just at the bottom of the stairs. There was an air of anticipation about the event.

Usually, Tara had always gone along with Marlene, but not this time. They’d never done anything like this before, but Marlene was crazy. She’d always try something different.

Tara, on the other hand, was more cautious. Although she was definitely no shrinking violet, she would assess the situation before diving in headfirst.

“Do shoes count?” asked Tara.

“Everything. It won’t make a difference anyway. I’m going to strip you down and then we’re going to get some beers.”

“You wish.”

Tara examined her clothing. The black blazer, school tie, white button-up shirt, black pants, and black slip-on shoes were formal. She could see she was already at a disadvantage.

On the other hand, Marlene wore her black turtleneck sweater, light grey vest top, darker grey stonewashed jeans attached with four buttons, and a pair of sneakers.

Tara would have to play this smart. She couldn’t let herself get swept up by Marlene . If she lost, she would never hear the end of it.

The two girls took up positions opposite each other. Their stances couldn’t have been more different.

Marlene, standing up straight with a grin. Tara, bent slightly at the waist with her hands out, something resembling a real wrestling stance.

“Go!” Marlene shouted.