Dine and Dash

George was the best player on the team, but not the sharpest skate on the ice. He was there for post game beer and pizza, but never had money when the bill came. “I’ll catch you next time,” was his response. Other players covered his share.

George sat with a dozen players around a table, eating his share of pizza and drinking more than his share of beer. A few nods and winks among the players, but George didn’t catch on. Dave excused himself. “I need to take a leak,” he headed towards the toilet. Next Murray did the same. One by one the players excused themselves, while George talked with whomever was left. Soon it was just George and Steve. “I’d better go see what’s taking those guys so long. I’ll be right back.” Steve left George alone with a mug of beer and remnants of pizza.

“Where’s your buddies?” The waitress asked.

“In the can. They’ll be right back.” George hadn’t clued in.

“You sure?” The waitress knew George’s reputation and called the manager.

“Your buddies are gone; settle up or I call the cops.”

“They’ll be back, we can work this out.” George pleaded. “I’ll go home and get money.”

“No way. You’re not leaving. If you sign a note with your details, I’ll give you two days or it’s the cops.”

George accepted, seeing no other way out.

After the next game, George tried to collect. He knew he couldn’t go back to the restaurant without money.

“Take it out of what you owe me.” Each player said.

Murray shouted, “Hey, meet you all at the Hot Spot. George, you comin’?”

“Not tonight.” George excused himself.

“I can't believe we got away with it." Dave laughed with the guys while enjoying the pizza and beer.

(300 words)