#texas hold’em poker

[adda52poker]

Best Starting Poker Hands In Texas Hold’em

If you want to improve your online poker skills and win more money. You need to know which hands to play and which ones to fold. In this article, we will cover the best starting poker hands in Texas Hold’em and explain why they are strong.

The Basics of Starting Hands

In Texas Hold’em, each player is dealt two cards face down, called hole cards. These are the cards that only you can see and use to make the best five-card poker hand possible. The other cards are dealt face up on the board and are shared by all players.

The strength of your starting hand depends on several factors, such as:

- The rank of your cards. Higher cards are better than lower ones.

- Suit of your cards. Suited cards are better than offsuit ones, because they have more potential to make flushes.

- The gap between your cards. Connected cards are better than gapped ones. Because they have more potential to make straights.

- Your position at the table. Later positions are better than earlier ones. Because you have more information and can act accordingly.

Based on these factors, some starting hands are better than others and should be played more often. Let’s look at the top starting hands in Texas Hold’em cash games and why they are powerful.

Top Starting Hands

In real money poker, the starting hand you receive sets the foundation for your gameplay strategy. Having a strong starting hand gives you an advantage right from the beginning. This section explores the top starting hands in Texas Hold'em.

Pocket Pairs

A pocket pair is when you have two cards of the same rank, such as 9♠9♣ or Q ♥ Q ♦. Pocket pairs are strong because they can make three of a kind, full house or four of a kind with the help of the board.

The best pocket pair is A♠A ♥, also known as pocket rockets or American Airlines. This is the strongest starting hand in Texas Hold’em. Because it dominates any other hand and has a high chance of winning the pot.

The second best pocket pair is K♠K ♥, also known as cowboys or King Kong. This is a very strong hand that can win big pots. But it is vulnerable to ace.

The third best pocket pair is Q♠Q ♥, also known as ladies or two queens. This is a strong hand that can beat most other hands. But it is also vulnerable to an ace or a king on the board.

Other pocket pairs, such as J♠J ♥ (jacks), 10♠10 ♥ (tens) or 9♠9 ♥ (nines), are also good hands that can win pots. But they are less likely to be the best hand at showdown.

Suited Connectors

Suited connectors are two cards of the same suit that are close in rank, such as 8♠7♠ or J ♥ T ♥. These are good because they can make flushes, straights or two pairs with the help of the board.

The best suited connector is A♠K♠, also known as big slick or ace-king suited. This is a very strong hand that can make a royal flush, the highest possible hand in poker. It can also make a straight or a high pair.

The second best suited connector is K♠Q♠, also known as king-queen suited or royal couple. This is a strong hand that can make a straight flush, a flush or a high pair.

The third best suited connector is Q♠J♠, also known as queen-jack suited or maverick. This is a good hand that can make a straight flush, a flush or a high pair.

Other suited connectors, such as J♠T♠ (jack-ten suited), 9♠8♠ (nine-eight suited), or 7♠6♠ (seven-six suited), are also playable hands that can win pots. But they are less likely to be the best hand at showdown.

Suited Aces

Suited aces are hands that consist of an ace and another card of the same suit. For example, A-Q suited or A-5 suited. Suited aces are strong because they have two advantages. They can make the best flush and they can make top pair with a strong kicker. A kicker is the second card that determines who wins when two players have the same pair.

Suited aces have different strengths depending on the rank of the second card. The higher the second card, the better the suited ace. For example, A-Q suited is better than A-5 suited because it can make higher pairs and straights.

The best suited aces are:

- A-K suited: This is the second best non-paired hand in Texas Hold’em after A-K offsuit. It has a 20% chance of winning against any other hand. And a 71% chance of winning against a random hand. You should always raise with A-K suited and try to get as much money in the pot as possible.

- A-Q suited: This is the third best non-paired hand in Texas Hold’em after A-K offsuit and A-K suited. It has a 18% chance of winning against any other hand. And a 69% chance of winning against a random hand. You should also always raise with A-Q suited and try to get as much money in the pot as possible.

Big Broadway Hands

Big Broadway hands refer to strong starting hands that contain high-ranking cards. This includes Ace-King (AK), Ace-Queen (AQ), and King-Queen (KQ). These hands have the potential to make powerful pairs, top pairs with strong kickers, and even strong suited connectors. Here's a closer look at each of these hands:

Ace-King (AK):

Ace-King is considered one of the strongest starting hands in Texas Hold'em.

It is commonly referred to as "Big Slick" and offers great versatility.

With AK, you have the potential to make top pair with a strong kicker, a broadway straight, or a nut flush.

It is crucial to play this hand aggressively and raise pre-flop to narrow the field.

Ace-Queen (AQ):

Ace-Queen is another strong starting hand that offers a lot of potential.

It can make top pair with a strong kicker and is especially powerful when suited.

However, be cautious when facing significant aggression from opponents, as AQ can be dominated by stronger hands.

King-Queen (KQ):

King-Queen is a solid starting hand, often referred to as "Big Slick Lite."

It has good potential for making top pair, as well as straight and flush draws.

While not as strong as AK or AQ, KQ can still be profitable if played strategically.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When it comes to starting hands in Texas Hold'em, avoiding certain common mistakes can greatly improve your chances of success. Here are some key mistakes to watch out for in poker and teen patti game:

Playing Too Many Hands: One of the most common mistakes is playing too many hands, especially weak ones. It's important to be selective and only play strong starting hands that have a good chance of winning.

Ignoring Position: Failing to consider your position at the table is another mistake. Your position determines the order in which you act. And it can greatly impact the strength of your starting hand. Play more aggressively with strong hands in late position and be more cautious in early position.

Overvaluing Suited Connectors: While suited connectors can be powerful in the right situations, overvaluing them is a mistake. They can easily become tricky and costly if not played correctly. Assess the table dynamics and use caution when playing suited connectors.

Relying Solely on Big Broadway Hands: Although big Broadway hands like Ace-King and Ace-Queen are strong, relying solely on them can be a mistake. It's crucial to consider other factors, such as position and the playing styles of your opponents. When deciding how to play these hands.

Neglecting Table Dynamics: Failing to adapt to the table dynamics in poker and call break game is a common mistake. Each table is different, and the playing styles of your opponents can vary. Pay attention to how others are playing and adjust your starting hand selection accordingly.

Chasing Weak Draws: Chasing weak draws, such as small flush or straight draws, can lead to costly mistakes. Make sure you have the correct pot odds and a strong hand potential before committing chips to draw hands.

Failing to Fold Weak Hands: Holding onto weak hands for too long is a mistake that can cost you chips. If your starting hand does not improve on the flop or subsequent streets, be willing to fold and save your chips for stronger hands.

Conclusion

Understanding and playing the best starting hands in Texas Hold'em is a crucial aspect of poker strategy. The selection of strong starting hands sets the stage for successful gameplay and increases your chances of winning pots. However, it's important to remember that starting hand selection is just the beginning in poker app. You can maximize your potential in Texas Hold'em with the right strategy! So, what are you waiting for download the app and avail poker offers today!

[severeavenuefestival]

Galley in Los Angeles

Inspiration for a mid-sized contemporary galley limestone floor seated home bar remodel with solid surface countertops

[chicavegan]

Contemporary Home Bar - Home Bar Seated home bar - large contemporary galley ceramic tile and beige floor seated home bar idea with stainless steel countertops and beige backsplash

[jazzypaophotography]

Family Room in Los Angeles Inspiration for a large, contemporary, enclosed game room remodel with beige walls, no fireplace, and no television.

[undohersad]

Galley in Los Angeles Inspiration for a mid-sized contemporary galley limestone floor seated home bar remodel with solid surface countertops

[tongue-like-a-razor]

Brother's Best Friend - Part 5

Jake Seresin x F!Reader

A/N: Thanks for all the ideas you guys have been sending in! They're all so wonderful it's hard to choose what to write next haha Hope you guys like this chapter, inspired by some of the ideas sent in

Summary: The trials and tribulations of falling for your brother's best friend.

CW: Excessive drinking, swearing, slow burn, fluff

WC: 2000+

Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 | Masterlist

“What are you wearing?”

You look up from your spot on the couch to see Jake standing at the entrance to the living room with a slightly bewildered expression. You grimace at him and then look down at your shirt. “Oh,” you respond with a laugh, remembering that you’d changed a few hours ago after spilling tomato sauce on your tank top. “It’s one of Bradley’s band tees.”

“No,” Jake corrects you, taking a single step forward. “It’s one of my band tees.”

You watch him steadily. “Okay,” you say slowly, not really sure what his problem is. “Do you want it back?” You rise from the couch and start pulling the shirt upward when you realize that you aren’t wearing bra. “Oh shit!” You clap a hand to your mouth. “You almost got a show,” you say with a laugh.

Jake’s eyes, which had drifted down to your bare abdomen as you were lifting the shirt, slide back up to your face. He doesn’t appear nearly as amused as you. On the contrary, he looks like he might pass out. “You – you’re wearing just my shirt?” he asks, his voice uncharacteristically brittle.

“Look, what was it doing crumpled up on one of our kitchen chairs, anyway?” you say defensively.

Jake licks his lips uncomfortably. He’s still holding your gaze but he isn’t responding.

You roll your eyes. “Oh god, don’t tell me there was another encounter in my house.”

Jake releases an unsteady sigh. “Would you call strip poker an encounter?”

“Jake!” you exclaim. “You have your own place!”

“It was a double date,” Jake responds sheepishly.

You shake your head. “Well, I hope you enjoyed seeing my brother’s ass.”

“Actually, your brother is surprisingly good at Texas hold’em.”

“Regardless!” You groan in frustration. “How do you walk out without wearing a shirt, Jake?”

Jake purses his lips. “I’m a little hazy on that part, to be honest.”

“You’re ridiculous,” you say.

“Well, you look ridiculous,” he counters.

You scoff. “I do not. I can totally pull off” – you drop your chin to examine the front of the shirt – “Pantera,” you finish with a slight cringe.

“Don’t make that face,” Jake says, pointing a cautioning finger at you.

You shrug. “You’re the one who said I look ridiculous.”

“Only because you’re drowning in in.”

“It’s not my fault you’re twice my size,” you retort, noticing that the hem of the t-shirt hangs so low that it hides the shorts you’re wearing underneath.

Jake takes another few steps forward, chuckling. “It’s actually pretty fucking cute that it goes all the way down to your knees,” he says, placing his hand over your head to ruffle your hair. “Keep it,” adds, and then drops onto your couch with a tired sigh.

“I can’t keep it,” you say. “People are going to ask me if I know any of their music –”

Jake waves a hand. “I’ll show you,” he says. “You’re gonna love it, trust me.”

You plop down onto the couch beside him and cross your legs. “Seems a little backwards.”

Jake looks over at you with a grin. “Suits your vibe.”

You smack him on the shoulder and he laughs. Then, there’s a knock on the door and you gasp. “Oh my god, I completely forgot to change for my date!”

Jake’s smile falters instantly. “You have a date?”

You give him a flat look. “Like you don’t.”

He shakes his head.

“Well, give it a minute, I guess,” you respond sarcastically, getting up.

Jake smirks and rises after you. “Maybe he’ll like your new look.”

You let out a nervous whimper and head for the door with Jake right on your heels. You pull open the door and nearly hit Jake with it because he’s so close behind you. You shake your head at him and then greet your boyfriend.

“Hey,” he responds hesitantly, his eyes darting between yours and Jake’s faces. “What’s going on?”

“Not much, come on in,” you say.

Jake remains silent, waiting to be introduced.

“Wow,” your boyfriend says. “What are you wearing?” He tilts his head to examine the shirt. “Pantera? Is that Spanish for panther? That's a lot of skulls.”

You notice Jake making a face at the back of his head and you give him a warning look. “I was just about to change,” you say with a tight smile.

Your boyfriend nods. “Good.”

Jake narrows his eyes and steps around your date to face him. “Hey there,” he says in a loud, exaggerated baritone. He holds out his hand in a gesture that seems more aggressive than polite.

You roll your eyes and rub your forehead irritably. “I’ll be right back,” you promise, eyeing your boyfriend apologetically as Jake throws you a massive grin.

You run up the stairs, taking them two at a time, as Jake begins grilling your boyfriend about the last time his vehicle was serviced.

You pull Jake’s t-shirt off and toss it in the hamper, and then you find a cute, backless top that looks great with your jean shorts. You glance at yourself in the full-length mirror before heading back down and smile. You’re a catch. Even if Jake Seresin will never see it that way.

You rush down the stairs just as Jake finishes instructing your boyfriend on how to check the pressure in his tires. The latter is watching him with a dubious expression.

“Alright, let’s roll!” you say, bouncing off the final step and charging the space between them.

Jake steps back as you crash into him, forcefully shoving him aside. “What time will you kids be back?” he asks as you hook your arm through your boyfriend’s and lead him out onto the porch.

You glance over your shoulder crossly. “No clue,” you say curtly, in response to which Jake gives you a once-over, as if he’s just noticed your attire.

When his eyes meet yours again, he’s wearing a more genuine expression. “Be careful,” he calls.

You wave a dismissive hand in his direction and turn to face your date, who is repeatedly checking to see if Jake has retreated into the house. “Is that your brother?” he asks.

…

Several hours and seven tequila shots later, you’re suddenly feeling extremely unwell. You stagger down the hallway, zigzagging between the walls toward the bathroom and, once you’re inside, you lock the door behind you and slide down the wall onto the floor.

You pull your phone out of your pocket, and it flies right out of your hand. With a groan, you crawl forward to pick it back up. You blink to focus your eyes on the screen, your thumb hovering over your brother’s name. You would call him, except that Bradley has been at the Hard Deck every night this past week, trying to woo the bartender. So, he probably isn’t in any condition to come and pick you up.

You sigh, squinting at Jake’s name in your contacts list. If you call him, he will never let you live this down. But the longer you wait, the faster the room spins around you and, by the time you tap on his number, you feel like you are on death’s doorstep, laying your back down on the cold, tiled floor.

“Hello?” Jake answers. “Y/N?” You can hear the edge in his tone despite the sounds of the bar in the background.

“Jake,” you say weakly.

“What’s going on?” he asks urgently as the background noises fade away. You hear the ring of the door as he steps outside. “Are you okay?”

“Mm-hm,” you lie. “I’m just very, very drunk. And I think I’m dying. The two are probably related.”

“Where are you?” he asks sternly and you hear the beep of his car as he unlocks the door.

“I’m at a house party,” you croak. “On the first floor. In the bathroom down the hall.”

You hear Jake sigh and then his car door slam when he pulls it shut. Next, you hear the engine. “The address, genius.”

“Oh,” you say. “Fuck if I know.”

“Drop a pin.”

“’Kay, hang on.” You lift the phone away from your ear and hold it up to send Jake your location. Only, your grip falters and your phone comes crashing down onto your face. “Ow!” you moan.

“Y/N?” Jake’s distressed voice is muffled by the fluffy bathroom mat on which your phone has landed.

You whimper and pick it back up. “Can you hurry?” you say, bringing the phone to your ear again.

“Y/N, I need you to concentrate, okay?” he says, steadily. “I still don’t know where you are.”

You let out a soft sob. “I’m in the bathroom!”

“For fuck’s sake, Bradshaw! Pay attention!” he yells and you flinch, nearly dropping your phone all over again. “I need the address!”

“Oh, right!” you exclaim. “Hang on.” You sit up and try again. “Did you get it?”

There’s a pause on the other end while Jake checks his phone. “Yeah, I got it. I’m ten minutes out.”

“Okay,” you respond with a slight whine. “That’s a very long time.”

“Don’t worry,” he says. “I’ll be there in five.”

“’Kay, don’t speed,” you mutter, closing your eyes as you lay back down onto the floor.

You hear Jake chuckle. “Did you forget who you’re talkin’ to?”

You sigh softly, too tired to actually laugh. “Jake,” you say. “I feel like I’m on a carousel in the middle of the ocean.”

“Hang in there, shorty,” he says. “Where’s your boyfriend, anyway?”

“No idea. Last time I saw him was when he lost at beer pong. Such a sore loser.”

“Classy,” Jake remarks. Then, after a few moments of silence, he says. “Keep talkin’, darlin’, I’m almost there.”

“I’m just going to take a little nap,” you say sleepily.

“I’d rather you keep talkin’, so I know you’re okay.”

“I’m okay,” you reply. “What do you want me to talk about?”

“What’s your favorite color?” he asks.

“You know what my favorite color is,” you say with amusement.

Jake chuckles. “Fine. Tell me about your plans for the weekend.”

“A nice, quiet funeral,” you say, willing the ceiling to stop rotating above you. “You’re invited.”

Jake snorts. “You any good at poker?”

“I’m not playing strip poker with my brother, Jake.”

“We can keep it PG for you, kiddo. Besides, Bradley might be too busy for us, anyhow.”

“Aww, did he get a date with the barmaid?”

“He got a date with the barmaid.” You can hear the smile in Jake's voice.

“But he’ll miss my funeral.”

Jake laughs. “Sorry to burst your bubble, cupcake, but I’m here. So, we’ll have to postpone that funeral, if you don't mind.”

The knowledge that he’s close by is a such relief that you let the phone slip out from your hand. In less than a minute, he’s knocking on the bathroom door.

“Y/N?” he says cautiously.

“Yeah,” you respond, rising unsteadily to your feet and unlocking it for him.

He bursts in and you stagger backward, so he grabs your hand and pulls you forward, and you sway right into his arms. Jake holds you tightly as you try to regain your footing. He lowers his face to get a good look at you. “Having a good night?” he asks with a cheeky grin.

You strike his chest with your palm half-heartedly. “Don’t be mean,” you murmur, resting your head on his solid pecs.

He smells fresh and warm and you detect a trace of cologne still infused into the cotton of his shirt; smooth and velvety with a hint of citrus and a hefty dose of ‘I’m about to rip your clothes off’ sandalwood.

“I think I’m going to vomit,” you say, bringing a hand over your mouth.

“It’ll probably make you feel better,” he says, gesturing to the toilet in the corner of the bathroom.

You shake your head, refusing to throw up in Jake Seresin’s presence. “Let’s just get out of here,” you whimper.

Jake leads you carefully through the house, making sure you aren’t bumping into any people or walls. Your boyfriend, of course, is nowhere to be found. Jake brings you outside and steers you toward his car. Without letting go of you, he opens the passenger door and helps you into the seat slowly. You drop your head back and close your eyes as he brings the seatbelt over your chest and buckles you in.

“Thank you,” you whisper.

“Wow, you smell like a distillery,” he notes with a laugh.

You smile and open your eyes. “I thought you were going to be mad.”

He furrows his eyebrows. “Why would I be mad?” he asks, still leaning into the passenger side of the car.

You shrug. “Because I’m irresponsible,” you try to say, however the words come out very slurred.

Jake chuckles. “You’re probably the most responsible person I know,” he says. He reaches up to tuck back a strand of your hair, his fingers drifting down the side of your face and lingering for a moment at your cheek. “You deserve a night off.”

You stare into his eyes, all the feelings you’ve been trying to suppress bubbling up in your gut, together with your nausea. What’s worse, your head is spinning even harder, if that’s possible. If only Jake knew how much you longed for him. If only he know how much you wanted him to kiss you.

“Cheer up, buttercup,” he says with a wink, pinching your chin affectionately. “You’re going to feel so much worse tomorrow. In fact, we should probably save your introduction to heavy metal until after your hangover.”

Read Part 6

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[cal-daisies-and-briars]

🦷🦷🦷🦷🦷🦷🦷🦷🦷🦷🦷🦷🦷🦷🦷🦷🦷🦷🦷🦷🦷🦷🦷🦷🦷🦷🦷🦷🦷🦷🦷🦷🦷🦷🦷🦷🦷🦷🦷🦷🦷🦷🦷🦷

Yeah! 129 for Eddie and Chris:

---

Of course. He was there during June. 

Eddie nods. “Your mom and grandmother got into a fight about it once.”

Christopher’s eyebrows shoot up. “Really?”

“Oh yeah,” Eddie smiles a little, remembering. “Before… Uh, not long after I got back from Afghanistan. Adriana wanted to go to support her friend. Your grandma was pretty against it. But Shannon? Boy, did she have something to say about that.”

Chris smiles. “So, she was cool?”

“She was really cool, buddy.”

Christopher thinks about this for a moment.

“So… She would have been really happy for you, then.”

That just about does Eddie in. 

His throat tightens. His eyes sting. He can barely hold it together. He steps forward to hug Chris again. Less to comfort him than to be comforted by the existence of him.

“I really hope so,” he mumbles. “Thank you, Chris.”

🦷🦷🦷🦷

Chris is quiet for a while after their conversation near the ice cream freezer. He doesn’t say much more until they’re about halfway through the drive home. And what he does say… Well, he sort of has Eddie’s number. 

“So, is this why you and Buck are always so weird all the time?” 

And honestly? Eddie doesn’t quite know what he means. But the answer is probably yes.

“Weird?” Eddie asks.

“Yeah, like, how you act like an old married couple and touch each other all the time and like each other better than any of your girlfriends you’ve ever had,” Chris explains. Like it’s right there. Simple.

“Oh,” Eddie replies. “I mean… Yeah, I guess.”

“You guess?” Christopher repeats.

“Yeah, I guess.”

“Does that mean you love him?” Chris asks.

“Chris…”

“Well, come on! Tell me!”

Damn it.

“Uh… Well, listen… You just got home.”

Christopher offers him a dubious look. “What does me being home have to do with it?”

Well, nothing… But also, everything? Sort of?

“I don’t want to shake anything else up in your life right now,” Eddie says. “Right now, it’s just about you and I working through things, right?”

“I still don’t get what that has to do with whether or not you love Buck,” Chris says. “It’s a yes or no question.”

God, he’s really like Shannon sometimes.

“Yes,” Eddie answers. “Fine. Yes. If you must know. I’m in love with Buck.”

Christopher smirks. 

Oh… That doesn’t seem like an expression Eddie should trust. 

“Does Buck love you?” Chris asks.

“Uh, I don’t know.  I haven’t asked.”

Chris rolls his eyes. 

“You know.”

“Okay, I mean… I think so. I’m pretty sure.”

“That’s good,” Chris replies. “I think so, too.”

Eddie chuckles. “Do you now?”

“Yep,” Chris replies. “In fact, I’d bet money on it.”

“What? Chris, you don’t gamble.”

“I can play poker now. Texas Hold’em. Tia Adriana taught me.”

“Did she?” Eddie asks tightly. “How thoughtful of her.”

“That’s what Grandma said.”

Fuck. Eddie hates that. He never ever wants to be accused of saying the same thing as his mother ever again. 

“We can get you into poker,” Eddie overcorrects. “Responsibly.”

“Dad,” Chris scolds. “That’s not what we’re talking about.”

“What are we talking about?”

“You telling Buck you love him.” Chris says, like that was meant to be obvious. Was it obvious?

“Oh…” Eddie replies pathetically. “No…”

Though, he’s not sure why.

“Yes,” Chris answers. “You should.”

“Christopher, it’s not a great time and…”

“And what?”

And Eddie doesn’t want to fuck it up. Like everything else. 

“And I don’t know if it’s the right choice, buddy.” Eddie says. “I want to focus on us.”

Christopher groans. “Dad, please don’t make it about me. I don’t… That makes me feel bad.”

Eddie blinks, caught off guard. 

“I… I’m sorry, Chris.”

[ilguna]

Supply Run: Can I get #24 from prompt list 2 with Joel Miller?

☼ stepping stones (Joel Miller) ☼

warnings; swearing, undisclosed age gap, death mention, murder mention.

wc; 2.4k

prompt; 24. "Don't let your fears dictate your life."

notes; i'm picturing game joel in my head. and this is set in boston but before he smuggles ellie.

--

A couple months ago you made the mistake of telling Joel a little secret about yourself when it comes to him. It happened during a game of Texas Hold’em with Tess and a few of your other friends in the quarantine zone. It came so casually, mostly because you weren’t entirely sober, and you knew that Tess was talking over you, anyway.

You didn’t expect him to hear, much less remember what you had to say, but it must’ve been one of those facts about you that he knew he should save for later. Which you can’t hold against him, because you would’ve done the same thing if you were in his position.

When you told Joel that he can pressure you into succumbing to any request with just his gaze, you were halfway kidding. You were referring to the game you were playing, because while you’re normally good at keeping a poker face, he always manages to crack you without doing it on purpose.

You knew the moment it came out of your mouth that it sounded stupidly flirtatious, but you meant it earnestly. Joel is one of those people where you feel safe enough to open up to him, trusting him with practically everything. Even though it’s difficult for him to do the same.

You’d like to say that Joel liked you from the beginning, but the truth is that he kept a fair distance and a sharp eye on what you did. He could tell just by looking at you that you were trouble. Or, at the very least, you came from it. When you joined the Boston quarantine zone almost five years ago, it was done out of desperation.

And you weren’t exactly the friendliest face around, something that you couldn’t help. Tess later told you that you had this specific look on your face, as if you were always waiting for someone to jump out at you. Which probably wasn’t far from the reality you were living at the time. 

Joel had a feeling that you came from a group of hunters, judging by the way you seemed to be prepared to defend your belongings at every turn. Since there was a period of time where he’d done the same, he couldn’t come down on you too hard, but everyone knows that the next generation of hunters are more brutal than the last. It’s because supplies are scarce to come by out there with every passing week.

Still, you preferred to be outside of the walls and not under the rule of FEDRA for the longest time. The only reason why you ended up changing your mind was because a group of travelers came through your hunting group and wiped absolutely everyone out. 

You managed to escape by yourself. If there were any other survivors, you never got to find out, because you were trying to put space between you and your camp that they were taking out. And when they found out that you were still alive, they didn’t let you escape so easily. You think they were afraid that you’d come back for them.

So, they ambushed you repeatedly. The first time they did it, they had too much confidence in themselves. They came in daylight with just two people, thinking that it’d be more than enough to bring you down. Once they were dead, you moved a few miles further out, toward Albany.

Well, they tried it again, coming in the daylight with almost eight people to bring you down. Fortunately, you’d scavenged in the area frequently, mostly because no one else liked going toward the big cities. You only had to bring down one person in order to secure your way out, but they followed you.

You basically drove them straight through the heart of the city, the infected did a bulk of the work for you. It didn’t deter them, especially since a few of them had survived the attack. The final time they came was during the night, and you’re still not sure how they managed to find you in that office building. You covered your tracks.

Regardless, they were so set on revenge that they abandoned the camp they killed your group for, and settled into chasing you across Massachusetts. You went straight to the Boston quarantine zone, knowing that they’d have a hard time trying to get you, then. 

The initial plan was to stay long enough to get your shit together, before going back out again. The longer you stayed, the more you decided that you liked the relative normalcy. You didn’t mind working, having a place to call home, food on your table almost every night. As soon as you started making friends, the nail on the coffin was sealed. You haven’t been able to bring yourself to leave since.

That’s why you can’t bring yourself to agree to what Tess and Joel are asking of you. It started out as a choice, but with Tess not feeling any better from the cold she caught earlier this week, they’re both telling you to help them. Which brings you right back to what you were saying ago with Joel making that face.

His steely eyes are piercing your soul right now, trying to get you to cave. You stare back at him, trying to replicate the intensity, but he’s so much better at it than you are. So, you resort to your words instead.

“I already told the both of you I’m not interested.” You raise your eyebrows, tearing your eyes from Joels, to Tess, who might as well be glued to her bed. “I don’t want to leave the quarantine zone.”

“You’ll hardly be going that far.” Tess holds her hand out in the direction of the window. “It’s just a few miles out. That’s where you’ll meet Wayne, he’ll give you the pills, and then you’ll come right back. Joel and I will do the work of bringing it to a different part of the zone.”

“The mileage doesn’t bother me, it’s being out there.”

“What are you so afraid of?” Tess scoffs. “You used to live out there.”

“Used to.” You emphasize. “It’s been five years, Tess. It’s not going to be a quick adjustment.” You turn your attention to Joel, shaking your head. “I’m sorry, but you’ll have to find someone else, or do it alone.”

“We don’t have anyone else.” Joel says. “I can’t take the trip alone, I need a partner.”

You shrug, “I guess you’re going to miss the trade, then.”

“(Y/n).” Tess sighs from her bed. “Don’t make me get up to kick your ass.”

“Try.” You roll your eyes.

She ignores your comment, sitting up a little. “You have to miss it out there a little, don’t you want to experience it again?”

“I do.” You have no issue admitting this. “But I don’t want to get hurt.”

“You’ll be with me.” Joel stands up from where he’s leaning against the wall. “I’ll have your back.”

Your mouth opens, going to tell him no again, when you hesitate. You know that he’s not lying, Joel is the best person you can ask for while being outside of the walls. You can’t remember the last time he came back with a scratch on him after navigating the streets for days at a time. 

He recognizes your hesitation, pushing it. “Don’t let your fears dictate your life.”

When you look at Tess, she has this knowing smile on her face. She’s won, and she knows it. You close your eyes, shaking your head slightly, and then you let out a sigh.

“Fine.”

There’s a moment of silence as Joel looks at Tess. “I told you she’d come around.”

She tilts her head, face impressed. “I guess you were right when you said she had a soft spot for you.”

Your eyes narrow at Joel. “Don’t talk about me like I’m not standing right here.” You tell them, crossing your arms over your chest. “What’s the plan, then?”

“Joel will take you to the apartment we regularly sneak out of before midnight. You’ll meet Wayne a few miles out, Joel will trade him, and then you’ll come right back.”

“Easier said than done.” You look at Joel to see that he’s giving you a halfway smile. “I still need gear.”

“One step ahead of you.” Tess waves her hand. “You’ll just use my bag, everything you could ask for is in there.”

You press your lips together, but give her a nod, agreeing. You wish that you still had your old backpack—FEDRA confiscated it as soon as they could. The only things you were allowed to keep from it was an old family picture and your knife. Everything else got thrown away or cycled into their own weapon supply. 

You had a really nice gun, too.

“Tonight it is.”

—

For someone that didn’t want to do this a few short hours ago, you find yourself glad that you caved and agreed. It was anxiety inducing for the first hour or so, as you jumped at every sound and searched every shadow. But it’s like riding a bike after a while—you get the hang of it.

Besides, there’s not many infected surrounding the quarantine zone due to the consistent FEDRA patrol. By the time you realized they were there, Joel had already taken them down and was moving onto the next house. This eased your mind considerably, allowing you to relax and mindlessly follow hi,.

A part of you is disappointed that this had to be done during the night, and not during the day. Not only would it be easier for you to see, you like inspecting the area around to see how it’s changed over time. 

When you brought this up to Joel, he wasn’t very impressed, remarking that had you listened to them earlier in the week, he could’ve arranged that. Since it’s so late and they’re going to miss their window, there’s not much of a choice left in the matter.

You couldn’t help but to roll your eyes at him. You weren’t looking to complain, you were actually going to skate directly into a conversation about what he likes best of the great outdoors. You decided that it would be best to leave it, despite knowing that he would likely realize as soon as you asked.

There are times where you can’t tell if Joel wants to have a quiet day or if he’s willing to let you chat his ear off. He seemed pretty fine earlier this afternoon when you were visiting Tess, but when you regrouped with him in the apartment complex, he was gruff and slightly irritated. 

It makes you wonder if it was something that Tess said after you left. He did tell you that he was going to stay back with her for a little while longer to talk about the deal with Wayne. That way he’d be able to catch you up to speed on the way to the fire station, which is just outside of Brookline.

Why you’re traveling so far for a bag of pills is beyond you. And you would be mad about the distance, because Tess blatantly lied to you, but it’s not the first time she’s successfully deceived you. It’s your own fault for believing her.

The pills must be pretty important if you’re going out of your way like this. You know they make a pretty good income with smuggling. They’ll be so well-off sometimes that they’ll slide extra ration cards your way, as if they aren’t practically made out of gold.

Either way, Joel hasn’t let you in on what’s happening. You’d say he’s forgotten, but he’s got a pretty good memory. He’s choosing to keep the reasoning from you. Which could be for a number of reasons—like he’s afraid you’re going to freak out. You’d like to think you’re level-headed enough to hear him out first.

A sigh escapes you, pace slowing. Joel glances over his shoulder at you, seeing that you’re not walking as quickly as before. He matches your speed, even turning his body to look at you better.

So he is open to conversation.

“Curiosity’s going to kill me.” You start, Joel raises his eyebrows. “You said that you were going to fill me in, and I’m all empty.”

He looks away from you. “Tess told you all there is.”

“Did she? ‘Cause all she said was that we’re picking up pills from Wayne.” 

“That about sums it up.” He says.

You squint at the back of Joel’s head, not liking the answer. Maybe you read the situation right earlier. “Okay, sure.” You murmur, looking away from him, to the houses off to your left.

It’s quiet between the two of you for a few minutes. This must be burn for Joel, because he ends up clearing his throat. “We’re supposed to work out an agreement with him.”

Your eyebrows twitch. “What?”

“Tess and Wayne got into a fight last month, he said he’d settle it the next time we met.”

You come to a stop in the middle of the road. “Are you telling me that we’re walking straight into an ambush right now?”

“No.”

“What was the fight over?”

Joel hesitates, “Tess cut his payout.”

You stare at him for a long second before looking away, around at the neighborhood you’re walking through. There could be dozens of people in these houses, and you won’t know until it’s too late. You’re not sure what was going through their heads with leaving a detail this large out, but Joel was right to try to keep this from you as long as he could. 

Sometimes you wonder why you even consider yourself a friend of theirs.

“Do we have enough to make it up?” You ask, he shakes his head.

“Honey, I won’t let anything happen to you.”

“You were going to let me walk into a fight blindly.” You raise your eyebrows. “How do you even know Wayne?”

“He’s a friend of Bill’s.”

Your face drops completely, as you reach up with one hand to grab your temples, turning away from him with another sigh. You met Bill once, and it was before you’d joined the quarantine zone, but it was while you were on your way there. You ran across him by accident, and got the full force of his insanity and violence. 

“If he’s anything like Bill, then we need to go back to Boston.” You point down the road you’ve been walking. “I’m not prepared to deal with something like that.”

Joel reaches up, hand grabbing your shoulder to squeeze it. “I’ve got you.”

--

this was part of my 3k celebration!!

[demonsdealings]

don’t mind me just coming with entire fic ideas from the shower —

the mental image of Husk vs Val’s poker tournament for Angel’s soul. They are playing Texas Hold’em and Husk is all in on the royal flush with spades in hand. He only needs the Jack of Spades to win. The card flips and it’s the Jack of Clubs. As soon as Husk sees it, his expression sinks with shock, “Fu—”

Angel’s hand covers his mouth, “Fuuuck yeeah!” Angel chimes, signaling for Husk to play along. Val’s seething because he only sees a blurry black shape on the card. He thinks he’s lost, but in reality it’s because he can’t fucking see that he didn’t 😭

[floridaboiler]

HAPPY NATIONAL CARD PLAYING DAY!!! National Card Playing Day is observed annually across the United States on December 28. A standard pack of cards may be used for playing a variety of card games including Spades, Poker, Solitaire, Spite and Malice, Hearts, Spoons, Gin Rummy, Ridge, Black Jack and Texas Hold’em. Of course, there are thousands of card games, some of which are regional favorites.

Source - https://mewe.com/p/bikinisummer

[livelaughlovesubs]

Js realised whenever I write about people playing in the casino or whatever I’ll only write about Texas Hold’em, cuz it’s the only thing I’ve played

While I know how some other things work, I feel most confident describing Hold’em haha, I need to play more poker variants-

[satoshi-mochida]

Alliance Arts, ACQUIRE, and WSS playground announce poker-themed adventure RPG All in Abyss: Judge the Fake for PC - Gematsu

From Gematsu

Publisher Alliance Arts and developers ACQUIRE and WSS playground have announced poker-themed adventure RPG All in Abyss: Judge the Fake for PC (Steam). It will launch in 2024.

Here is an overview of the game, via its Steam page:

About

…for every victor who gains it all …there is a loser, left with nothing. In this game, you adventure to become a successful gambler by challenging others at the game of Texas Hold’em Poker. —poker battles.

Texas Hold’em

In this game you will challenge others in a one-versus-one battle of a variant of poker called Texas Hold’em. Texas Hold’em is a popular variation of poker where players are dealt two cards each and use a combination of those cards and five community cards to make the best possible five-card hand.

Activate Skills

The “gambling prodigy” Asuha is capable of turning the tides of battle using various skills, sourcing from her aptitude in gambling. Limit the opponent’s play, gain insight beyond their hand, and much more… stay victorious with skills that expand the pool of decision-making.

All-In

“All-In” is a command that puts all chips on the table and your life as a gambler on the line. Use various means to put yourself in a favorable position, and use this command to slam the final nail in the coffin.

Showdown vs. The Witches

A “Witch” is a Boss Character present in each chapter of the game. All Witches excel at poker, but with enough preparation, the player can expose the Witches’ fraudulent acts and sink them to the depths of hell with a deadly All-In.

The City

The scene is set in The City, where various information can be gathered. Find sources to help unveil the secrets behind the Witches’ cheats and frauds to achieve sweet vengeance. Out of cash? The City abounds with gamblers, challenge them in poker to earn some buck. Be careful though, as losses may lead you into the depths …

Expose the Witches’ Hand

Your finesse in poker may earn you some cash in The City, but the Witches—who rule the districts, will not allow for a fair victory. Their methods of cheating seems to be fool-proof, but the evidence you uncover will say otherwise. Explore every inch of the city and expose the cheaters of their tricks.

Story

Asuha Senahara, a self-proclaimed genius gambler, is a wanderer. Amidst the tables of cards and dice, it is she alone who snatches the chips at stake. One day, she learns of the “gambling district,” a special ward where gambling holds influence above all else. The “Witches”—a group of the most extraordinary gamblers rule over the place—treat Asuha to the taste of defeat; something she was unfamiliar with. They exercised not luck, not skill, but dirty tricks, such that felled Asuha to the depths of the abyss. As a self-proclaimed genius gambler, Asuha becomes determined to take down the Witches. The Coliseum is the battlefield. The challenger is Asuha Senahara. The chips are on the table, and the Witches are ready to be exposed.

Characters

Asuha Senahara – Self-proclaimed genius gambler. A failure of a human being, but has a strong resolve and is determined when it comes to gambling. A pretty young lady on the cover, a middle-aged old man on the inside.

Mina – Savior of the freshly-defeated Asuha. Has good eye sight.

Uru – The First Witch. Uses her mysterious powers to easily defeat Asuha. Loves snacks and sweets.

Staff

Planning and Development: ACQUIRE (developers of Octopath Traveler)

Scenario: Shusei Sakagami (scenario of Heaven Burns Red)

Character Design: SKYn

Production: WSS Playground (planning and production of NEEDY STREAMER OVERLOAD)

Watch the announcement trailer below. View the first screenshots at the gallery.

Announce Trailer

English

Japanese

[boredwritergirl]

Day 20 - Jackpot

Jackpot

‘Gotta win big, gotta win big, gotta win big.’ Jasmine thought to herself as the wheel on the roulette table spun.

Her forehead was sweating profusely, creating a noticeable sheen that reflected off her caramel skin and leaving stains on her cheap, checkerboard leisure suit. The gold finish on her cheap, fake jewelry was smudging against her wrists and phalanges. Jasmine pulled on her collar, her heart racing as her eyes refused to leave the rapid spin of the roulette ball.

She had spent all day gambling at every joint in vegas. She played blackjack, Texas hold’em, slot machines, darts, anything it took to get all that money. She needed the money badly. She wasn’t in debt, but the woman she loved was. Jasmine had a big crush on this Mormon girl, she had come into town and lost all of her savings. Vegas is a city of sink or swim and she sank.

When the mob got a hold of Jane, the Mormon girl, they weren't too pleased that she didn’t have the money. So, they gave her two options; either go on a permanent scuba trip to lake mead, or get all dolled up and escort some “esteemed guests” to their hotel rooms. Jane chose the latter.

Jasmine had seen Jane the previous week, all naive and wide eyed and ready to take on the world. Just one glance at how Jane looked this morning was all Jasmine needed to get the full story. She saw Jane’s thousand eye stare and immediately realized what had happened and knew she just had to save her.

That’s why she spent all day doing this, why she’s taking a big bet at the roulette table to double-or-nothing her earnings.That’s why she needs to win big.

As the ever spinning ball of the roulette table finally came to a close, it landed on red 23, Jasmine’s number. 

Jasmine screeched in celebration at her win, practically jumping in the air as she dramatically swung her fist in the air. “OH HELL YEAH!” she roared, the jitters of watching the ball all this time finally leaving her system.

She cashed in all of her chips, her high stakes winnings coming in a silver briefcase as courtesy of the casino.

She saw the mob boss, Don Dom Gallo, over by the poker table. Jasmine fiercely gripped the silver handle, her legs stomping across the busy room of waiters, dealers and either excited or stressed gamblers. 

Don Dom Gallo was a highly respected man in the Las Vegas strip. Perhaps more feared than respected, but he wasn’t the kind of guy that people felt safe getting near. Yet Jasmine stormed right up to him and shoved the briefcase into his chest.

Jasmine let out a big huff and puff as she stared daggers at the mobster. “I got the money. You better let her go, now!”

“Hey Hey, what’s the big idea over here?” Gallo asked, his sarcastic tone and beady eyes made it clear, he wanted to know who this woman thought she was to do that to him. He wore a tight black suit and slicked back hair, looking like a real jackass, but it never mattered what he looked like, because he had the money to do something about it if someone said something he didn’t like.

“You know what the big idea is. We spoke about this this morning. I want to buy Jane’s contract.” She said with a stern tone.

“Forget it, she’s not for sale.” He said, trying to brush her off.

“Fucking excuse me!” Jasmine barked. 

“I said, she’s not for sale.” Gallo repeated. “I changed my mind. It happens sometimes.”

“I am not leaving here without her.”

Gallo rolled his eyes and shrugged, “Fine…” He then snapped his fingers and Jane quickly arrived. The girl who looked rather plain last week was now in a sparkly black dress with a thick coat of makeup plastered all over her face. 

“Yes?” Jane asked.

Gallo pointed over to Jasmine, “She’s your boss now. Go with her and make sure she gets home safe.”

Jane looked at Jasmine and then looked back to the Dom, before finally grabbing Jasmine’s hand, running out the casino doors and jumping into her convertible together.

As Jasmine drove and drove outside the city limits, she had a big smile on her face, happy to have beaten the mob.

But Jane looked uncomfortable, telling her, “Hey, park the car. My kidneys feel like they’re about to explode.”

Jasmine noded, parking her car at the side of the road, surrounded by miles and miles of dirt in all directions. 

As Jane walked behind a rock and kneeled to do her business, she took out a tiny pistol that was hidden between her breasts and shot Jasmine right in the throat.

Unable to speak, Jasmine held her hand against her neck, trying to keep the blood from pouring out of her.

Jane walked closer, pointing the gun at the gambler. “I don’t know what sort of perverted sex fantasies you had in that twisted mind of yours, but there’s no way I’d go over to be your slave or lover or whatever the hell you expected. You’re a stranger, a nobody! At least with The Don, I have somebody looking out for me. I get to move up in the world, not live in lord knows what hell hole with a loser like you.”

The ungrateful brat kicked sand into Jasmine’s eyes as she watched the gamble slowly die from internal bleeding.

[an-internet-rando]

Hello! I'm Kazzie and I run the BumbleKast account. Guess what? You won the giveaway HURRAH! What's your question and We will add it to our priority list :)

Hi Kazzie,

Awsome! Here's the question: We’ve heard whose smarter. We’ve heard who would win in a fight, but how about a poker game? Breezie Vs. Mogul vs. Clutch. Texas hold’em. Who wins, who gets caught cheating (because c’mon), and who as a 4th player from across the various sonic continuities would completely clean them out?

[dr-shortsighted-owl]

Asking my bear of a boyfriend to teach me ‘Texas Hold’em’ just so the terms and plays for a single game of poker in my 6x13 buddie smut fic are factually correct...

[satashiiwrites]

Messy draft monday

playing with an evil plot bunny centered on that poker date night.

Title: All Time High

Fandom: 911

Pairing: Buddie, likely mention of canon pairings through 6B

Working summary:

After being struck by lightning on the job, Evan ‘Buck’ Buckley takes his newly acquired math skills to Vegas for the weekend. He’s also in search of the meaning of why he survived given that all his lovers leave him sooner or later and his found family is all happily settled down but he isn’t.

He’s not running away to Vegas, but it might look that way from the outside.

Las Vegas, Nevada is where Eddie Diaz has been spinning his wheels for the last few years after his discharge from the Army. He’s finally in a bit of a good spot emotionally but is starting to feel at loose ends as his son starts wanting more independence.

A different first meeting under alternative circumstances.

Tags/warnings: rough draft. Half-formed idea that has somehow gotten a title, a vague plot and a theme song. I have other priorities but just jotting a few things down tonight. Alternative universe. Alternative first meetings. Not-currently-a-firefighter Eddie.

Without further ado….

All I wanted was a sweet distraction for an hour or two

Had no intention to do the things we've done

“Boss—I got a suspected counter at table four in Mavericks.”

Eddie isn’t supposed to be here at work, but it’s a Friday night and he was just miserably staring at the tv in his apartment with Chris at a sleepover. He’d thrown on his work clothes and wandered down to the monitoring hub so he’d at least be around other people instead of miserably alone and abandoned by his newly teenaged son.

Lena had already moved to hover over Lucy’s shoulder, examining the security footage. Eddie’s not supposed to officially know but Lena and Lucy are sweet on each other and in the blushing-every-time-their-eyes-meet phase of courting.

It’s tooth rotting cute and he’s getting cavities just from being around them.

Joining them, Eddie can see the poker tables in the medium-high limit, texas hold’em section. The table is full with four players shown from multiple angles as well as the dealer, Cooper.