Never Trust a Pretty Face

Anthony Pagan has been talkative throughout the night, his gregarious nature no doubt influenced by a growing chip stack. Seemingly on every pass through the tournament floor, we've heard the young player making casual banter with anyone willing to listen.

Pagan's latest conversation, however, might not be what it seems. Seated to the right of Amanda Musumeci - she of nearly $1 million in live tourney earnings, including a runner-up performance here last night for $17,214 - Pagan was overheard asking about the professional's experience with poker.

"My dad bought me into this, so..." answered Musumeci, obviously amused at the chance to go incognito for a change. "I mean, he taught me how to play, so I know what I'm doing."

"Very cool, that's what's up..." said Pagan, blissfully unaware that he was playing out of position against one of the best players in the room. "This is fun, huh?"

Musumeci continued her effort at concealment, flashing a knowing wink as we passed by and stringing Pagan along the whole time.

Should the friendly banter between Pagan and the neighbor he doesn't recognize eventually end, there's no need to worry, as he can always turn the other way and strike up a conversation with Andy Hwang.

After all, the man with his name already etched in the World Poker Tour Champions Cup shining down from a nearby podium doesn't stand out too much in a crowd.

Maybe he'll tell Pagan he's in town for a convention, and just thought a poker tournament looked like a fun thing to try out.