Payment Expected

There’s a sign right on the wall,
In case you’re feeling nervous,
That payment is expected at
The time you’re getting service.

You’re possibly distracted
‘Cause they’re x-raying your head.
They want your money right up front
In case you end up dead.

The sign is a reminder
Lest you maybe will forget.
This test is just a gamble
And they’re counting on your bet.

So whether you’re a winner
Or, unluckily, you lose,
The house accumulates the chips
And you cannot refuse.

And so you cough the payment up
By cash or card or check,
And sit around and wait
As they are shuffling the deck.

You’ve anted up, you’re in the game;
You’re in the dealer’s pull.
No matter if you win or lose,
You’ve paid your debt in full.