Laughing they sat down amidst the crash of pins. How had they never been bowling together before? The athletics and aggression appealed to Cabe, while Walter enjoyed the mathematics of the game. Despite his low EQ, Walter knew he had to approach this conversation delicately.
"This has been fun." Walter began.
"Yeah, just what I needed kiddo." Cabe answered.
"I'm glad that I was able to help. Forgiving you was one of the best decisions that I've ever made."
Cabe gives Walter a curious glance and waits for him to continue.
"I know that you had a job to do and were in a tough situation having to go forward with something that you knew would hurt me when I found out. I understand it was difficult for you."
Cabe smiles, "I'm grateful for your forgiveness too."
Walter swallows before continuing, "So I can relate the hurt and betrayal you're feeling now because of what Allie did to Sly."
After an awkward pause, Cabe grunts, "Well, it's not exactly the same." He goes to retrieve his bowling ball to restart their game.
Walter follows and stands behind Cabe at the dispenser, "Oh I know. The stakes were much lower with Allie's betrayal. Sly lost the election, but still saved his comic book store and no innocent lives were lost."
Turning to face Walter, Cabe groans then exclaims, "Let's just continue our game."
Walter replies, "Ok, sure. Just… we're both happier in each other's lives and I thought perhaps that forgiveness would help you and Allie too. Also, one of my biggest regrets is not fighting for Paige when I had the chance …"
After a thoughtful pause Cabe smiles, "What am I going to do with you 197?"
Walter just looks at Cabe puzzled.
"Your intelligence can be really intimidating, but I used to be able to count on having an upper hand in emotional situations and social exchanges. However, it seems that you've upped your game and can teach me a thing or two even in those areas."
Walter smiles proudly, "So you're going to talk to Allie?"
"Yes, but not before whooping your butt in this game. After all, you made me wait 16 years for forgiveness. I think Allie can wait a few more hours."
"What makes you think you're going to win?"
"Athletics isn't your strong suite son."
Walter steps back to wait his turn. "No but math is and this game is nothing more than basic geometry."
"We'll see kid. We'll see. And for the record, I don't think the window on you and Paige has closed." While Walter ponders that, Cabe moves forward to bowl his frame realizing that regardless of the outcome of the game, he had already won.