The name of the casino was emblazened over the entrance door​ with each letter glowing red and taller than Adam himself: SKYMASTER.   

     "No ego there," Adam muttered.

​     A young woman ran up to him. "Adam! You dog! Where have you been off to? Ever since that morning we spent together last year, I haven't been able to think about anything but you!"

     "Oh, you know, I've...I'm sorry. I've got your name right on the tip of my tongue. Lauren?"

​     "Lana, you prick." 

​     "How are you, Lana? You look lovely."

​     "I'm on my way into space!" 

​     "As are we all...apparently."

     "I got my invitation yesterday. I had my agency look into it. It's perfectly legit."

​     "So I've been told."

     An electrified fence kept everyone away from the casino itself while a battery of sensors and cameras observed everyone as they lined to go through the single, narrow entrance. To reach the other side, everyone had to present their own personalized invitation. When it became Adam's turn, he slipped the invitation Claudia had provided for him into an indicated spot. A second later, it popped back out, and Adam returned it to his pocket.

                                                  CONTINUE