(A/N: Finally got round to writing the next chapter, set to Panic's Let's Kill Tonight. Mainly just about having fun.)
"Barney, you're not fourteen anymore, which adult still celebrates his birthday at a laser tag centre?" Ted had his judgmental look on, and shook his head slightly in disbelief. They all knew of Barney's impossible obsession with laser tag, but it was ridiculous, to celebrate his birthday playing laser tag. Admittedly, it sounded good, having the whole place to themselves and he could do what he loved most after sex, but it just wasn't age-appropriate.
"Ted, it's laser tag! It's timeless! Right, Robin?" The minute he let the words slip, he silently cursed himself, why did he say her name?
"I think it's rather cool, I mean, laser tag, it doesn't get very much better than that, loosen up a little, Ted!"
They split into two teams, Ted with Lily and Marshall, leaving Robin to partner Barney. As Ted passed a wavering glance, he thought he noticed Barney leaving a small smile for a second too long. Could it be that Barney still fancied Robin?
"Alright, Sparkles, you'll take the left flank, and I'll bank right, take cover behind a box, and we should be able to get Lily and Marshall easily, then we'll double on Ted. Clear? Let's kill tonight!"
He dived behind a large carton, one of his favourite spots, he had personally put it there before the others had arrived, as always. He hated to admit it, but it was his key strategy - hide, take down the enemies one by one, then go all out for the last. It wasn't as gung-ho as he said his playing style was, but it worked, all the time.
He waited. The minutes ticked by, and he glanced at the clock hanging overhead. Time was nearly up, what was going on? No one had even fired a shot yet, let alone been disabled. The stats were ridiculous. Barney got up hesitantly, looking left and right to make sure none of the other team were in sight. "Psst...Robin! Change of plans!"
"Happy birthday to you..." The slightly out of place rough twang of the electric guitar rang out, and Marshall's distinct bass tones stood out among the higher pitches from Lily and Robin. Ted wheeled out a cake, in the shape of a laser tag gun, and laughed as Barney, for once, was stunned beyond words.
"Don't look at me. It was Robin's idea." Ted stepped out of the way as Marshall lit the solitary candle, and Barney blew it out gratefully after a short wish. I wish that I could have the rest of the night with Robin's company.
(A/N: I sincerely apologise for this chapter. Not the easiest song to write to, and to be honest, I doubt my interpretation is very accurate. Sorry, and I will make amends in the next chapter!)