Robert Burns might like this one.

“Vocal Minority”

By Joseph Manno

Sam watched as Gabi puzzled over her move, small tongue perched at the side of her mouth.

Finally, she brightened, and moved her knight—“kuh-night” as she often forgetfully called them—in a delighted little hop that would have impressed an equestrian… and with it, knocked one of Mantovanni’s bishops clear off the board.

He arched a brow… and replied with his queen.

“Checkmate.”

Gabi glared at him for a moment then folded her little arms.

“I didn’t see that! It’s not fair!”

The captain’s eyes flicked to Sam…

…and she suddenly knew why that particular phrase got her nowhere.