Julian Valentine stood at the center of the gambling table, his gaze sweeping over the two opponents.
"As the impartial adjudicator, I'll ensure this game remains fair." His voice was steady. "If there are no objections, we'll begin now."
Amy's red lips curved upward. "I'm ready."
But Sophia Sullivan looked up at Julian. "If I win this round, may I challenge the Guild Master to a game?"
The entire casino fell silent.
Julian was universally acknowledged as the King of Gamblers—no one had ever defeated him.
The man chuckled low in his throat. "The Crimson Serpent truly is extraordinary."
Jessica couldn't suppress a derisive laugh. "Delusional."
She was nearly speechless at the woman's audacity.
"Having the Guild Master oversee this game is already an honor! You're not even worthy of being in his presence!"
Whispers rippled through the crowd.
Everyone thought Sophia was just seeking attention.
Wesley's eyes flashed with scorn. "Know your place, Crimson Serpent."
He hadn't expected her to dare provoke the Guild Master.
Sophia replied calmly, "Are you authorized to speak for him?"
Wesley immediately fell silent.
Sophia turned back to Julian, awaiting his response.
When Julian met her dark eyes, he felt an inexplicable sense of familiarity.
Like recognizing a kindred spirit.
"Very well." He interlaced his fingers. "Provided you survive this game."
"Agreed."
Sophia turned and walked toward the gambling table.
Wesley quickly revived the atmosphere. "Tonight's death match features Crimson Serpent versus Amy, with an eight-million-dollar pot! Place your bets!"
Gamblers swarmed forward.
"I'm betting on Amy! She's undefeated in Southeast Asia!"
"Two hundred thousand on Amy—this is a sure win."
"I'll take the underdog—thirty thousand on Crimson Serpent."
"Only thirty? I'm putting three hundred thousand on Amy!"
Almost no one favored Sophia.
The odds quickly reached one to a hundred.
Sophia sat quietly at the table, tuning out the surrounding noise.
Two more figures entered the casino.
"What's all the commotion about?" Chloe Evans clung to Liam Winston's arm, looking around curiously.
Liam answered distractedly.
He'd come seeking medical clues but found nothing.
Then his gaze fixed on a figure in the distance.
Chloe stiffened. "Why is she here...?"
The memory of being locked in the warehouse still haunted her.
Liam stared at the familiar silhouette.
The silver sequined dress hugged every curve. Even seated, Sophia commanded the room's attention.
He couldn't look away.
This woman had once been his wife—now they were strangers.
"Big Sister must be doing well." Chloe murmured sweetly. "Mr. Sullivan certainly spoils her."
Liam's expression darkened.
"She's nothing to us."
A server approached. "Care to place a bet? Tonight's death match is overseen by Guild Master Valentine himself!"