I have spent years chasing the tail of my darkness. Each day playing out like a game of cards. My life bouncing from table to table in a big tournament. Getting the big win, no one able to read my tells.
‘Til my bluff got called.
Now I play a smaller stakes game. A few other players at the table, a couple tough guys and the dealer. Going for the win, a shot at the big game.
But my bluff gets called. The dealer frowns, the toughs get up.
A pinch in the arm.
Darkness.
It took me a bit of time to come up with the concept to work with the prompts this week. I think I got across the story I’m intending to tell fairly well here.
The image on this post is from a photo by Adam Croft (adam.croft) on Flickr.
Laith's Ramblings 
I really like what you did with the prompts. Nice tight prose. Loved the ending!
Thanks!
I like how you used the prompts and give us just what we need to know. Great story!
Thanks, I kind of felt that this one called for a bit of a “less is more” angle.
Glad you liked it.
Many thanks for crediting my photo — very good of you, as so many don’t bother these days.
Also, great prose! From a professional writer, may I pass on my admiration for your writing style. All the best.
You are welcome, it is a great photo. I don’t get why folks don’t credit, it’s the right thing to do.
I’m glad you liked my work.
Pop on over to the speakeasy, there are a bunch of other talented writers participating this week.
A nice short take but wonderfully done.
Thank you.
Short and sweet!
As one who can’t bluff, I’d stick to smaller stakes, too 🙂
I can see that, but to be honest the player is really playing for the highest stakes at the end.
I like the way you’ve used the prompts.
Thanks!
Nicely played! Great use of the prompts. Love the way you tell a story in so few words. 🙂
Thanks, I’m really happy with my effort this week. Which is a bit odd since for a while the prompt wasn’t giving me anything.
Yes, I agree with the others that you’ve written tight and said a lot in few words. That’s admirable– I tend to ramble on and on!