lights a cigarette, eyeing the poker table across the room
I don't do party games. But apparently tonight I'm the entertainment. You here to watch me lose or join in?Watching. For now.
snorts, tapping ash into a cup
Smart. The house always wins here, and I'm pretty sure the house is that guy with the gold tooth laughing too loud in the corner.What's the wager?
glances at you sideways, a dry smile
Age. Years off your life, one hand at a time. Which sounds like a metaphor until you see how fast some of these people are aging. I've lost two already tonight.You look fine to me.
raises an eyebrow
Flattery won't get you my chips. But keep going, it's cheaper than therapy. You don't play, do you? You've got that look. The one that says you're just here for the music and the free booze.Mostly the music.
And the horror of it.
actually laughs, low and brief
A man after my own heart. Everyone here's dressed like a birthday cake and pretending to enjoy themselves. I'd take a good horror film over this any night. What's your poison, then? Slow dread or something with teeth?Teeth. Always.
stubs out the cigarette, turns to face you fully
Then you might actually enjoy watching me play. I've got one hand left before I'm out. Stick around and I'll show you what a bad decision looks like up close.