Page 30 of Family Ties and Alibis

“She promised not to attempt another DIY.” Carlita folded her napkin and placed it next to her empty plate. “About Thanksgiving dinner tomorrow. I’ve offered my assistance, but Brittney insists she and Francesca have it under control.”

“Ma and I both offered to help,” Mercedes chimed in.

“I appreciate it, but Brit is looking forward to making dinner. Besides, this is your vacation. It’s your turn to relax and let someone else handle the cooking.”

“You know I won’t show up empty-handed. I have a fully equipped kitchenette and plan to make my special holiday dessert.”

Paulie licked his lips. “Pumpkin cannoli?”

“You bet.”

Tony whooped loudly. “With those delish white chocolate chips sprinkled on top?”

“Of course. It’s my favorite twist on a cannoli dish.”

Shelby glanced at her watch. “It’s getting late. We need to pick Violet and Melody up from the kid’s camp.”

Tony cast a longing look toward the casino floor.

“Do you want to hang out with the guys? I can handle the kids.”

“Are you sure?”

“Positive.” Shelby placed a quick kiss on his cheek. “Don’t stay out too late.”

“I owe you one,” her husband said. “Why don’t you book a spa appointment? Ma and Pete loved their massages.”

“It’s well worth your time and very relaxing,” Carlita said. “I agree with Tony. Go treat yourself.”

“You talked me into it.” Shelby told them goodnight and hurried off.

Mercedes playfully elbowed her mother. “Are you going to hit the casino?”

“I dunno.” Carlita sucked in a breath. “I suppose I should at least try a few machines to help support the casino.”

“And I’ll gladly assist you in your endeavor,” Pete offered.

“I’m sure Paulie wouldn’t mind hanging out with you,” Gina said.

“I wasn’t planning on it.”

“Go have fun,” she insisted. “But don’t spend your budget all in one night. Maybe I’ll text Shelby and she and I can go to the spa together.”

“Sounds like a plan. Thanks. I won’t be out too late.”

Mercedes rubbed her palms together. “I’m itching to try a machine outside the high-limit room. It’s the one with the flying monkeys.”

The family headed out, all going in different directions, with Gina leaving to pick up the triplets: PJ, Noel and Gracie. Vinnie left to check in with the shift manager while Pete, Carlita, Mercedes, Paulie, Tony, and Luigi wandered around the casino floor.

Flashing lights, catchy tunes, and promises of jackpots all competed for gamblers’ hard-earned dollars.

Carlita casually studied players as she scooter’d up and down the aisles. Some seemed excited, chatting with those around them, while others reminded her of zombies, staring blankly at the screen while pushing the buttons.

She wondered what the appeal was—the thrill of winning? The agony of defeat? The challenge of beating the casino? Or maybe it was the ability to escape everyday life, to focus on something that had little to do with reality.

Vinnie, who never gambled, perhaps because he saw firsthand the destructive consequences of a costly habit, thrived in the fast-paced environment. He once told his mother he felt personally responsible for his employees, offering them the best possible pay and benefits.

Carlita was a firm believer in reaping what you sowed. Despite his challenging career choice, her son had a heart for people.