I knock.
“Come in,” Gene oozes in his velvety baritone. The oak door creaks as I cross the threshold. I’m trembling.
“GFA,” he croons. “Finally.” He’s smiling. He’s wearing a velvet robe. There’s smoke in the air. It smells like a mixture of tobacco and North Dakotan grass. There’s a soft clink of glass and ice as he puts down his scotch on a nearby table. “You’ve seen the news?” I whimper.
“I... I did. I saw. It’s Venzy.” He’s triumphant.
“Yes. Yes, it was always Venzy, I’m afraid. I saw your post.” He’s crossing the room.
I would give myself to gene
“My secretary faxed it to me.”
I’m filled with a mixture of regret but also... yes, yes it was excitement. Deep down, I wanted this. Gene approaches me, closer and closer. I’m shaking now, but I’m ready.
“A bold promise, I have to say. I admire your dedication to your alma mater.”
“T-thank you, sir.” He’s inches away now. I can smell a hint of the Iowa on him. He’s never really washed it off.
“So. Tonight is my night. You will give yourself to me. I am going to enter you...”
Oh god.
“...into my weekly spades group.”
“...come again?”
“Spades,” he says harmlessly. “The card game. We play once a week. I’m very skilled, so I’ll be having my way with you all night, I have to say. As you know, Sean and Dr. Wefald were both tragically killed, so my partner and I need two new guys.”
He’s opening a second door. There’s smoke here too, thicker, and it’s dim. I squint through the haze. I see a frail looking man in a windbreaker and a headset. It’s Bill. Of course. And behind him... my god, that jaw... those piercing eyes... it could only be...
“That’s right,” murmurs Gene. “It’s Venzy. Let’s play cards.”
