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Fiction Short Story

by  Susanne Shaphren

Zero-Sum Game

"I know it's bad form to brag, but if I say so myself that was the best damn game we've ever played!"

"We're getting too old for this."

"Speak for yourself. I haven't felt this good in decades. Cigar?"

"Had to give them up. Didn't want to wind up like Peter Jennings. I've got a rather nice high country red I've been saving for a special occasion."

"The new wife doesn't approve of alcohol."

"My daughter snuck me in a slice of Death by Chocolate Decadence cake. Want to split it?"

"No, thanks; I'm gonna have a bit of trouble fitting into my tux for Rachel's wedding as it is."

"Laps in the pool or miles on the treadmill?"

"Treadmill first and then the pool to cool off."

"Deal. Your turn to set up the game next month."

"I remember. I'm just old, not senile."

"I didn't mean to offend you, Charles. We've been friends since God was a boy."

"More like a baby, Gabe. Are you up to a change of venue?"

"Depends. Passport is up to date, but I've had a couple of close calls with the old ticker. I prefer to stay close to medics who speak English."

"Not to worry. Almost everybody speaks English these days."

"What exactly do you have in mind?"

"Wouldn't want to spoil the surprise. Let's just call it the ultimate challenge—a chance to prove that two chaps aged like fine wine can still beat the socks off the boys who just think they know how the game is played. If we win, the prize will be substantial to say the least. You could buy two new hearts.  I could send every one of my grandbabies to college. We'd still have folding money to spare."

"Risk?"

"Damned straight. Wouldn't be any fun if there weren't."

"How much?"

"If you have to ask ..."

"Never mind. I'm in."

"Glad to hear it.  Wouldn't be the same without you.  Nobody plays the spy game better than two old spooks too stubborn to stay retired."


About the Author
Susanne Shaphren's fiction and articles appear in a wide variety of print and online venues including: SPRING HILL REVIEW, DANA LITERARY SOCIETY ONLINE JOURNAL, DISCIPLES WORLD, and ESPRESSO FICTION. "Arrangements" is included in the Mystery Writers of America anthology, SHOW BUSINESS IS MURDER. "The Best of Friends" will appear in the forthcoming Michael Bracken anthology, SEX, LIES, AND PRIVATE EYES.