Stars Waited Above Empty Streets by Lorin Wren 38

Chapter 38 Engrossed in the Game 

In her past life, Ava had occasionally played a few rounds with her family during the holidays, losing small amounts just to liven up the atmosphere and make everyone happy. 

Jane quickly explained the rules to her, “This little pastime actually came from the Clark family’s heiress I’ve got to say, she’s a genius. In just a few years, it has spread across the entire galaxy. It’s practically a national activity.” 

Ava let out a quiet sigh in her heart. Should she say it? Tylissa, this time–traveler, truly lived a life that made people envious. 

Ava took Louis‘ seat, while Jane sat in Cassius‘ spot, so they ended up sitting together. 

Claire smiled. “For you two pretty ladies, my husband and I won’t go easy on you.” 

Claire enjoyed playing cards and was quite skilled. Meanwhile, her husband had learned a lot from her over the years. 

Jane laughed. “Go ahead, Aunt Claire. I don’t mind losing small change. And if I can’t pay, with a few of us here, we can always pull someone out to cover it.” 

Claire grinned. “That’s what you said. No backing out if you lose.” 

Cassius and Louis stood behind Jane. She smiled. “Even though you’re an expert, I’ve got two strategists behind me. I’m not going to lose that easily.” 

Keith quietly stood behind Ava without her noticing. Jane teased, “Look, Aunt Claire. We haven’t even started yet, and Keith is already guarding her. Let’s see what you do about that.” 

Claire laughed, her face lighting up instantly. “Doesn’t matter who it is, everyone’s the same at the table.” 

Jane turned to Keith. “Hear that, Keith? Aunt Claire won’t be going 

Keith’s gaze stayed on Ava. “Just have fun. If you lose, it’s on me.” 

easy on us. If Ava loses, it’s your fault.” 

A spark of competitiveness lit in Ava. “I haven’t even started, and you’re already jinxing me? No way. Should I ask Lila to swap places with you?” 

Her voice was clear and carried a little girl’s playful pride. Keith thought her expressions were so lively and 

natural. 

“My bad. You’ll definitely win!” 

Jane watched their interaction, laughing so hard that tears threatened to come. 

Ava hadn’t played card games in years. In the first few rounds, she lost badly. 

Claire had won the most and her smile grew even brighter. She glanced at Keith with mock reproach. “Are you just going to watch her lose without even guiding her?” 

Keith shrugged helplessly. “She doesn’t want me as her strategist anyway.” 

1/3 

Wed, Jan / 

Chapter 38 Engrossed in the Game 

She’s kind of stubborn, he thought to himself. 

+ Pearis 

Jane, guided by her two husbands, played fairly decently. But her temper was quick, and when she got excited, she ignored their advice and played randomly. 

She’d usually lose most games, but since Ava was doin 

than her, she actually won a few rounds. 

Jane laughed. “If you don’t step it up, you’ll lose everything, Ava.” 

Ava’s chips were almost gone. In another round or two, she’d be penniless. 

“No worries. I’ll be fine as long as you keep winning, “Ava said, picking up her cards. 

Keith moved a chair over and sat beside her, holding a small plate of melon chunks. He picked up a piece with a fork and fed it to her. 

Ava, focused on the game, didn’t think much. When the melon was offered, she just opened her mouth and ate it. 

Jane kept glancing at her, then at Keith. Though quiet and unassuming, Keith wasn’t oblivious. 

Everyone noticed it but chose not to comment. They simply watched as Keith fed Ava like a little hamster, while she remained wholly absorbed in her cards, her expression deadly serious. 

Lila had already been sent off to play, so the only one who might have commented wasn’t in the room. 

“Your turn.” 

“Bet.” 

“Raise.” 

“Fold.” 

Ava picked a card, her eyes lighting up. She pushed her hand forward. “Winner takes all!” 

After losing six rounds in a row, she finally won one. A wide smile spread across her face. 

Once the round ended, Jane, who had been holding back, couldn’t help herself. Looking at Ava’s beaming face, she burst out laughing. “Ava, you’re going to kill me! Don’t you notice something weird?” 

“What?“. 

“Gosh, let me catch my breath!” Jane laughed until her stomach hurt. “He’s feeding you the whole time, and you’ve been nibbling on it like a little hamster. It looks hilarious!” 

Keith handed Ava a tissue. “For your mouth.” 

Only then did she realize, her gaze dropping to the empty plate on the table. Ugh, how embarrassing! 

The Five Powerhouses Who Match the Unwilling Bude