family tradition

i glance around the table, sneaking looks at the stony faces of those around me. my pointer finger lightly taps the back of my cards as i contemplate my next move. the aroma of my vanilla red tea tickles my nose as i inhale slowly. laying this one card would change the game to my favor and i would have control, but i couldnt decide if i wanted to take control just yet or continue playing mind games with those opposing me. i gazed into the eyes of my game partner, silently wishing he would tell me what i should do. slowly, i lay down my card, face down. as i flip it over a sly smile slithers onto my face. i hear the soft groans the opponents to my left and right and my partner smiles triumphantly as i flip over the black bird. the game is mine for the taking. i have already tallied the points in my head, i know the opposing team is set. i allow a victory sigh slip from my lips as i kick back, relax, and win