The Middle

Miri’s pretty brown eyes crossed in confusion. Somewhere along the shuffle, she knew she’d lost track of the right card, and she wasn’t sure which card she should pick. However, she felt confident that it was one in three odds and the last card he touched was the central card. Biting her lip, she tapped her chin, contemplating. After a playful nudge from Dazar, Miri decided upon the middle card.

“That one.” She announced proudly.

“Are you so sure?” Dazar grinned excitedly, his beard twitching ever so much.

“Just flip the card over!” Miri cried impatiently.

Complying, Dazar reached over and flipped the card, revealing the Ace of Spades. Miriamelle slumped forward in surprise as Dazar revealed the card on the right was the queen. He winked and said, “Better luck next time!”

“Hmm! Double or nothing!” Miri shouted as Dazar began scooping the coin back into his purse. He raised an eyebrow in response and Miri blurted, “I don’t have much to offer, but can we work something out?”

“Oh. Of course, we can work something out.” Dazar shrugged. “Although, I wouldn’t want to impose on you or anything…”

Miri thought for a moment while playing unconsciously with her chin. Then she announced, “It's fine. Even though you've been staring at my ass all day, you've been a gentleman, so I'll let it slide." She paused, weighing her options in her mind before boldly challenging, "I’ll take off one piece of clothing. Your choice. That should be worth 10 silver” Dazar nodded, slightly impressed.

“Eh, with a body like yours? Every straight man in Greenwater'd line up for 10 silver to see more of you! Alright, butterfly, you're on. Pay close attention this time.” The dwarf then took the queen, bending an ear inward before starting his shuffle and explained, “This way you can more clearly see her.”

Miri tried to ignore the creeping sensation that she was being played, but she endeavored to pay closer attention this time, carefully watching the cards. Now she felt confident in her choice.