Gambling

Around the table was the second human spectre holding a bunch of cards and sitting with a few asari, one human, and a female turian. “I raise, one pistol,” Ashley said.

“Come on, that doesn’t count,” the turian said. “Surely you have something better to gamble.”

“I’m already out of credits. And I don’t have much else to gamble,” Ashley said.

“You have your clothes,” one of the asari said.

“Out of the question,” Ashley said. “I may have had a few drinks, but I’m not that bold. Besides, we’re playing for keeps, and I’m not about to lose my dignity over a game of cards.”

“You humans are so soft,” the turian scoffed.

“Enjoying the show, Shep?” A voice said from the shadows.

Shepard turned and blushed as the famed thief appeared out of nowhere. “What’s going on?” She asked.

“Ashley is losing badly at poker,” Kasumi said.

“And you have nothing to do with it?” Shepard asked.

Kasumi smiled. “I wouldn’t say that. That turian right there. Her name is Jala. She’s an… acquaintance of mine.”

“So you know all of them?” Shepard asked.

“Yup,” Kasumi said. “I could settle this game once in for all, the question would be if I want Ashley to sweep them of everything they have, or get Ashley to lose everything. Do you have any opinions?”

Shepard raised an eyebrow. “What do you two think?”

“I think we should sabotage Ashley,” Liara said. “She’s been a pain for awhile even if she is a lot better now.”

“I dunno,” Tali said. “I don’t want to do anything rash…”

“It’s your call, Shep,” Kasumi said. “But you’d better make it fast.”

“What are you chicken?” Jala said.

“Fine! I’ll go all in, but only if all of you do the same!” Ashley said. “And no folding.”

“Deal,” Jala said.

“You better decide now,” Kasumi said. “Or… we can always just leave it to fate…”