Wild Card

by Elsie Silver

To the outside observer, it would appear that I’m staring at the guy I showed up here with. But they would be wrong. I’m staring at his dad.

“The fuck did you just say to her?” Bash’s voice is cold as ice from across the table.

So in about ten days when you get discharged, you’ll stay with me—like we talked about—and we’ll have to hire a live-in aide. They can take the spare room upstairs since you’ll be on the main floor.”

Clyde you conniving menace 👹

You that fucking eager, Gwen? I’ve got a laundry list of ways I’d like to watch you work for it, and none of them involve poker. I really should not want you this badly.

“Fuck it,” I mutter. Then I kiss her.

I’m standing there making “googly eyes” at her, as Clyde had called it, when he appears in the doorway. He takes one look at the food laid out and then pulls up a seat beside Gwen. “I wish Bash were in love with me. Then maybe he’d make me nice breakfasts too.” I spray my mouthful of coffee into my hand right as Gwen barks out a shocked laugh and thumps a flattened palm on her chest.

“This is the best birthday gift anyone has ever given me.” His lips roll together, like he’s covering an overly pleased expression. Then he presses a button, the headsets crackling to life before he speaks. “If anyone is on this channel, can you wish Gwen a happy birthday?” He sneaks a mischievous look at me before adding, “It’s her first time.” I throw my head back and laugh, just as multiple birthday wishes come through the headset. It’s ridiculous, it’s fun, and it’s a gift I will never forget for as long as I live.