Gemotions

He had always known that Leo, with his stories of high-stakes gambling and exclusive clubs, had been embellishing. But the invitation to the poker night at "The Chairman's" club finally brought the truth to light. Mark, a quiet accountant, had always found Leo's life enthralling, a world away from his own.

The club was dimly lit, the air thick with the smell of cigars. Mark felt his heart start to pound as he surveyed the men around the poker table. Leo, however, looked perfectly at home. Mark, seated next to him, felt sweat prickle on his forehead.

The stakes were high. Mark didn't understand the rules. He watched the ease with which the other men made their bets, their expressions inscrutable. He kept dropping his chips. He couldn't keep his eyes focused. He felt a burning in his ears as Leo started to lose, his bravado crumbling.

He had to get out of there. He excused himself, feigning a sudden illness. As he walked home, he wondered if he had ever truly known his friend.