The Philosopher’s Table

In this novelette a computer programmer, Roland Farber, enjoys having an espresso and discussing philosophy with his friends until a gangster shows up one day and stirs things up a little. Roland is a bit gullible and when he agrees to give the newcomer a ride. He finds a large sum of money but it comes with a cost. Once the money is in his hand he doesn't want to give it up but keeping it completely changes his life.