Decline The Invite

“Nah,” answered Lou.

The winning chances were pretty low. Why put himself through all that headache to be short changed where it counted. Better off asking for a raise. Not much, but a step in the right direction. He would get the surgery. Just not today. Despite his internal reconciliation, Alex thought differently. He whined at the response, giving his best friend an incredulous look.

“Bro! Forty grand! At the cost of gas money, meals, and maybe souvenirs?”

Lou chuckled, shaking his head with levity before looking at Alex.

“We lived there, remember dude? What souvenirs?”

Alex waved his hands.

“Alright. We can stay here and continue to be broke.”

Lou shrugged, taking back his phone to renew his swiping.

“No guilt tripping. Sound like my mom.”

Alex laughed. He stood while he wagged his finger at Lou.

“Well son,” he retorted in a croaky tone, “Ma’s gonna take a leak. But remember honey, you only fail when you stop trying.”

Lou smirked, giving Alex the middle finger before resuming his mindless internet search. He would not change his mind for a fanciful goal. All the same, a sudden regret twinged at his inner voice. He wondered…

…did I make the right choice?