Tis the night before Christmas, the house dark except for the soft glow of the router light,
Children upstairs dreaming of morning surprises, unaware their dad was still awake downstairs.
I’d told myself “just one more wager to finish the requirement,” but one more had turned into dozens.
The screen showed a small win — enough to break even for the night — and something in me decided that was enough.
I cashed out the few dollars left, shut the laptop, and stood for a long time looking at the Christmas tree in the living room.
Its gentle lights felt warmer than any jackpot notification ever could.
Tomorrow I’d be present for the chaos of wrapping paper and laughter.
Tonight, I was grateful for the small mercy of simply stopping.
Stake: LBQ
