Chapter 78

“May I have your attention, please?” Everyone turned to face me. “This is Benjamin Brooker. Ben, this is the Friday night gang, plus a significant other or two.” I introduced him around. “You already know Chester and Dre.” The youngsters waved hello.

“Oh man, can I shake your hand?” Larry got up from his table to do just that. “Because of you, Carl has joined the land of the living. Whatever you did to kick his ass, thank you, from the bottom of my heart.”

“Here, here,” came from around the room. I would have been embarrassed, but they spoke the truth, so Ilet it slide.

“Yeah, yeah. Kiss his ass if you think it’ll help you play better. You haven’t seen this man play Scrabble.” I brought Ben’s hand up to my mouth and kissed his knuckles, then let go.