The oldest cousin, although still Sam's junior by at least 5 years, gestured to Maggie to take the first turn.

Big Mistake. (thoughts)

Maggie lined up the first shot, taking a little more time than needed. Crack. The blue one ball took a plunge into the far right corner.

"Huh. Must be beginner's luck." She walked to the opposite side of the table, lining up on what she knew looked to be an impossible shot.

Crack.
Crack.
Crack.
Crack
Crack.
Crack.
Crack.
Crack. Thud.

By Maggie's ninth shot, the entire room had forgotten their cool, uncaring exterior. Gaping mouths surrounded her. “Your turn.”

"Turkey's ready!" a voice called out from somewhere in the middle of the house.

Sam's cousin took a half-hearted try at the cue ball, barely nicking the nine ball as it pitifully lazed across the felt, completely missing all of the pockets. He shrugged, sinking his hands into his oversized pockets and slinking away.

Crack. The nine ball flew into the corner pocket, and the game was over almost as soon as it had started. Maggie looked around at the wide, unbelieving eyes, quickly honing in on Sam in the back corner.