After a couple of hours of card playing, the final stakes come down to this rivalry between two players. Their card-playing skills have outlasted the rest of the field.
The final hand is ready to go with cards now being shuffled and dealt. The room’s atmosphere deals out its own stillness, filled with the sharpened concentration of these two savvy card sharks.
The old man’s mind strains to stay focused, and his eyes fill with intensity. The master has traveled down this path many times in the past. His experience is sure to overcome his younger opponent.
The young, upstart challenges for the master’s crown. His fearless, confident approach attempts to break through. Will his skills and luck be enough?
Looking over their cards again and again, both competitors try to gain one last advantage before this final, dramatic hand plays out.
The room’s activity grows quiet. The small gallery of onlookers silently waits for the night’s final outcome.
The young man understands that the next play will determine the winner. Victory is within his reach.
Grandpa boldly asks, “Got any four’s?”
His determined grandson replies back with a smile, “Go fish!”
Big Sky Buckeye 
How delightful, Richard… brought a smile to my face.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Carole, thanks for your affirmation for this tiny story with its big heart. My blended family of 11 grandchildren shares so many smiles.
LikeLike
Love this. Fond memories of my childhood!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you Kathy. These fond memories serve as a catalyst for some of my writing, especially stories like this. I can vividly remember playing an endless card game at my grandmother’s home. It is similar to rummy with a total of about seven hands.
LikeLiked by 1 person
My granddaughter loves to play cards too, but grandma usually falls asleep or talks too much.
LikeLiked by 1 person
You are a great storyteller! The way you built the suspense and ended with humor reminds me of Mark Twain.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Vickie, I appreciate your kind words. Creating a tiny story with a big heart is a delightful exercise. Blessings to you and your family.
LikeLiked by 1 person