Page 24 of Mechanic

“Sorry, nothing that I can think of. Toni is to come and see you to get his key once he gets here.”

“Okay,” she says, making a note.

“I am headed to the poker game, in case you need me.”

Once she acknowledges my statement I head toward the elevator.

When Aymond and I decided to open this place, one of our goals was to have a monthly private poker game. Our objective is to draw in the high rollers. When we took over this site, we had a special suite designed just for this game.

The focal point of the room is a large, oblong poker table. We wanted to offer seating for at least eight players.

Wanting a perfect experience, the room has a modified bar and a small kitchen area. During the game, four staff members work the room. There is also a dealer, obviously, or there wouldn’t be a game. As well as a bartender, cook, and waitress.

We also have the room available to rent for private games.

Tonight, several of the town council are coming so we can do a trial run of the monthly game. This is our last “test” before the grand opening next week.

Stepping inside the poker suite, the staff is busy with last-minute touches on the room.

The dealer greets me with a nod as he shuffles the deck of cards in front of him. Chips are set up in piles at each place setting.

As tonight is not an official game, we are using plastic, unmarked chips that retain no value inside the casino.

Moving to the bar, the bartender places a cocktail napkin on the black marble that makes up the bar top.

“Scotch, please,” I order, watching her movements as she pours two fingers of liquid over a large square ice cube before setting it on the napkin.

“Thank you,” I tell her, reaching for the glass.

Taking a sip, I savor the flavor on my tongue as my gaze checks the various bottles lining the shelves.

Placing my free hand into my pants pocket, I move toward the food station.

Several chafing dishes sitting over Sterno cans are ready for service. The food menu for the poker suite consists of finger foods that can easily be eaten during card play.

“Is there anything I can get you, Mr. Sereno?” a soft voice asks from behind me.

Turning to face the speaker, I smile and the obviously nervous girl. Taking a moment before responding, I down the rest of my drink before handing her the glass.

“Yes…” I pause, glancing quickly at her name tag. “Marcy, another Scotch, please.”

Marcy takes the glass and I hide my smile as her shaking hands cause the ice to clink around the glass.

The door opens, drawing my attention as my guests step inside.

Approaching the men, I shake each of their hands, thanking them for coming.

“Gentlemen,” I greet and extend my arm toward the bar. “Would you care for a drink?”

The men move to the bar as Marcy returns with my drink. After twenty minutes of small talk, some food, and a couple of drinks, the men seat themselves at the table.

Before sitting, Chayce Galloway, the town sheriff, takes a moment to introduce each of the men. While we have seen each other at the various council meetings, we have yet to be formally introduced.

“Roderick, let me introduce you to everyone.” Chayce takes a pull of his beer as all eyes focus on him. I step closer to make the introductions a little easier.

“At the far end of the table is Arek Palmer. To his right is his cousin Declan Palmer. The Palmer family owns and operates the steakhouseSimmer Down. Rhodee is also their cousin,” Chayce adds as both men raise their glasses in a silent toast that I return.

“To Declan’s right,” Chayce continues, “is Crispin D’Angelo. On his right is Jorden D’Angelo, Crispin’s brother. The D’Angelo’s run an accounting firm.” Both of the D’Angelo brothers raise their glasses in a silent toast, repeating the actions of Declan and Arek.

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