Backgammoned

first roll . . .

sleet ticking

at the bay window Michael

hit my blot, eh?

you will live to regret it Neal

the blanket tightened

on this shortest night—

another 6 and 5 Michael

in the fireplace

a pine log splits in two

double accepted Neal

the click of a piece

bearing off Michael

hot toddy in hand

while risking a back game

backgammoned Neal