Game Night at ECO

It was a pleasant December evening, the kind that felt like the universe pressing pause. The bar, ECO, was glowing warm—jazz in the background, the clink of glasses, low laughter, and the soft hum of people hoping to meet fate halfway.

Nyra entered without a ripple. A blink-and-you-miss kind of girl. Unassuming, simple, always watching but never watched.

She ordered a Hot Toddy and settled into her usual corner. It wasn’t her first time at ECO.

Across the room, Nikhil sat pretending to read, actually swiping through Hinge and glancing toward the bar more than his phone. He didn't notice her walk in. But Nyra noticed him. She always did.

She felt it—his eyes finally catching her. She turned, and for the first time, their eyes locked. It was unexpected. A silent charge. She didn’t look away.

The moment was gently broken by the bartender, who placed her drink in front of her and leaned in:

“It’s only good before it gets cold.”

Under the napkin sat a Jack of Clubs.

Nyra smiled.

Tonight was Singles Game Night at ECO. Every drink came with a card. Match two of the same and you’d get a free drink and a blind date with the person holding the same pair.

Nyra already had her first card—Queen of Hearts.

Nikhil, coincidentally—or so he thought—had the same two cards.

He walked up, trying to play it cool.

“Trade you… my heart?” he offered.

She grinned.

“Treat me like a queen?”

They laughed, matched cards, shared stories, and unravelled layers that somehow felt familiar.

It was almost too easy. Too... perfect.

As they left ECO, smiles soft and steps slow, Nikhil felt like he'd stumbled into something rare.

Just before disappearing into the cool December air, Nyra turned back—caught the bartender’s eye—and winked.

He gave a slow nod and wiped down the counter like it was routine.

Because it was.

Later that night, the bartender opened a drawer beneath the counter. Inside: a stack of cards—all Queens of Hearts and Jacks of Clubs.

Nyra had played her hand weeks ago.

And tonight, it paid off.