Tight-Lipped Grins And Sheepish Smirks

I could feel it when I opened the door.

Well, ok maybe not right when I opened the door... but once I successfully wrestled my bike through the doorway  without shattering the storm door, I definitely could. 

First, I had to close both the big wooden door and the squeaky storm door that guards it. That'd required a split-like maneuver where my outstretched, left hand precariously balanced the bike in place from its seat while I extended my right leg forward to perform the kind of textbook lunge my former strength coach would've been proud of. From there, all I'd had to do was remember to breathe while I used my right hand to close and lock the door.

After returning to an upright position, I stood for a moment to gather my wits take in the refreshingly crisp, beautiful, blue sunny day.

I'd fought valiantly. Of course I deserved to relish my victory.

"Hey Derek!"

Oh... oh no.

"Great day for a ride huh?"

Shit.

"Mornin, Jason—definitely. Been a long time coming."

I looked across the driveway at the tight-lipped grin on his face. He's a super sincere guy, so he meant what he said in earnest. But, he also definitely just watched my entire bike-through-the-doorway debacle.

I could only shrug, shooting him a sheepish smirk back.

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Our Daily MAP Year Prompt
235/365

When's the last time you got caught doing something embarrassing? How'd you respond?

onward.

For more on this daily column and The MAP Year Project, read the backstory here. And if you know someone who'd appreciate this, pass it along.