I don’t feel up to another of Bruno’s gambling sessions after a full day of work, but it is too dicey to decline the invitation. So after our evening meal in the crew canteen, I leave Mizti to enjoy her favourite television program in one of the crew lounges, and join Bruno’s poker buddies in their private little den. A bar assistant is waiting, and little Nero, my cat buddy from our shift looking after kittens a few days ago, is bustling around, shifting chairs and waiting to take orders. He shouldn’t be up as late as this, and certainly not in a gaming room.
Bruno smiles when he sees me. ‘Glad you decided to join us, Sasha,’ he said. ‘I can count on your sharp wits to keep our play interesting.’
Nero pulls out a chair for me near Candy, who always comes to these sessions. She is older and obviously wealthy. She plays well and carefully, unlike some of the other regulars.
Nero brings a tray of the usual cat whisky shots for the players and puts a milky drink in front of Candy.
‘I’ve ordered something special for you, Sasha,’ says Bruno. ‘I know you prefer non-alcoholic stuff, but wait till you try our bartender’s fermented catnip nectar.’
I mutter under my breath my dislike of catnip, not wanting to object. Candy looks at me and then beckons Nero, whispering in his ear. He trots off to the bar and speaks to the bartender, who glances our way. When Nero brings my drink, Bruno insists I try it straight away, even before the game starts. Everyone is staring at me. I must attempt not to show a disgusted expression when I take the first sip.
To my surprise, the drink tastes fine. It even tastes natural, and it isn’t alcoholic. Nero must have told the bartender I don’t want my wits muddled. I don’t tolerate lactose well, and this milk must be a special one for cats.
‘Delicious,’ I say, taking another swallow and nodding my head. So the game begins.
Tabby Thunderbolt is in good form, and Candy, too. I am relieved to come away ahead for the evening. As we break up, Candy meows quietly to me. I have to lean close to hear.
‘Watch yourself,’ she says. ‘Bruno is determined to come out on top, no matter what it takes. Be careful what he tries to serve you. I stick to milk or bottled water.’
I thank her for the hint, and she taps me gently with her paw.
A note: these are all fantasy images, not real scenes, and they were created with AI.
