Spring-Loaded Launch

Dashing out the front door after sunrise led me straight through the propped-open side entrance of the neighborhood retro arcade. Back in the corner sat a vintage pinball cabinet with its coin door slightly ajar. I scrambled up the chrome trim and hopped right into the outer shooter alley. Resting inside was a heavy steel ball bearing, but the real prize was that stout metal plunger. I planted both sneakers against the glossy wooden rim, seized the rubber pull-knob with my white gloves, and hauled it back until the coiled steel spring groaned with tension. With a cheeky smirk, I let go! Wham! The plunger slammed home, launching the metal sphere roaring up the wire ramp into a flash of ringing bells and spinning bumpers.