This is a terrific story, @sunnyag. Were you telling the truth when you said you hadn't written fiction before coming to The Ink Well? :-)
This story brings us right into Johnny's world, his longing and despair, and his misguided attempt to achieve his goal. It has the all the key elements of a good story - a character we care about who has a burning desire, and obstacles that prevent him from achieving it, which forms a very nice story arc. The end is not surprising, as it would have been a miracle if he magically won the money he needed to get to New York. But in the end I wanted to pat him on the back for trying and give him some encouragement to never give up hope.
Johnny thought if Spain has bullfights, and Rome has gladiators, Las Vegas was proud of Casino Royale.
I love that line so much!
Thanks, @jayna for asking if I had ever written fiction? The answer is simple, "Never". I am basically a travel and fitness writer. I have done some motivational writing which was part of my job, encouraging fresh and junior marketing professionals to stay focused. And travel writing is all about what you experience so that's not a problem.
I am in the beginning stage of learning about the thrilling world of fiction but I hope I will learn it. I am in good company. I visited your blog yesterday and was tempted to fill out the form but stopped. I think I need a lot more practice before joining in. Thank you for everything once again.
You will know when you are ready, grasshopper! 😁