I have always been told
that the Ace of hearts
is a bad card to use
for a strategic move.
But the early days
of a tournament, everyone
deep-stacked on the endless
sea of felt, invites that sense
of immortality, recklessness.
Suited with its king,
the Ace of hearts invites
consideration of balance,
aggression, the eyes
locked on an opponent
as chips shuffle, shuffle,
shuffle against the fingers
of the left hand. Kiss
the tattooed crosses
on the backs of her thighs
and announce, in a clear
steady voice, “All in.”