Page 4 of Gamers' Omega

I glanced at the box again and nodded. “I think I played another version, but yeah. It gets long when you have to resource farm.”

“I don’t think we’ve met many other people who have played it,” Beck said.

I shrugged. “It’s fun, but it takes people who really like board games to be able to sit through it.”

“Luckily, that happens to be us,” Tony replied.

I laughed. “What drinks should I get started for you while you set up?”

The men ordered a round of sodas and were already in their opening campaigns by the time I dropped them at the table. They were squabbling over resources when their pizzas came out and were just finishing their game when my shift was over.

“See ya next week, new guy,” said Beck as they headed past me.

I grinned, already looking forward to seeing them again. “See ya.”

Then I saw the tip they’d left as I bussed their table, and I was really looking forward to seeing them again. They’d warned me they’d be camping, but their tip reflected not just what they’d ordered, but also the time spent at the table.

Polite, good-looking, and good tippers? Yes, I was already looking forward to seeing them again.

Chapter 3

~December~

“Hey Eric,” said Freddie as the four waited at the host station.

I waved as I rushed past. “Sorry guys, sudden rush.”

“No problem,” Ian replied.

I paused and glanced around. “You know what, you guys know where you like to go. Get seated and I’ll bring drinks as soon as I can.”

“You sure?” Tony asked.

I nodded as I heard the distinctive clink of ice on glass, a sign that somebody needed a refill. “I don’t think you’ll cause problems for me.”

Ian grinned. “We’re totally going to cause problems for you now.”

I waggled my eyebrows. “You sure about that?” I glanced at the box in Beck’s arms. “All it would take is a table bump to…”

Freddie reached out and acted as if he was going to cover my mouth with his hand. “Don’t finish that thought. We don’t need a half-hour discussion about whose pieces were where.”

I laughed. “Go on. I’ll have your drinks in a few minutes. Large pepperoni, mushroom, and green chile?”

“You know it!” Ian chuckled.

I shot them a thumbs-up, then rushed off to grab a tea pitcher. I made the rounds, and by the time I had grabbed drinks for the guys, they’d already set up their game.

“Is that one fun?” I asked as I placed glasses on the table. “I’ve heard good things, but haven’t had a chance to play.”

Beck shrugged. “That’s what we’re trying to figure out.”

“First time playing?” I guessed.

Tony nodded, eyes intent on the board. “Trying to decide if we want to introduce it during game nights.”

“Game nights?” I asked, perking up. “I need deets.”

Freddie grinned, his different-colored eyes glittering. “Yeah, we host game nights at…”