#Chapter 41: Royal Flush

Agnes The casino lights pulsed around me, an endless blur of color and sound, but all I could focus on was the knot of tension coiled in my chest. My encounter with Olivia and Noah left me feeling trapped, an unwilling player caught in the crossfire of their games. I glanced at Elijah, leaning confidently against the poker table, his gaze steady as he scanned the room. He looked unshakeable, like he had everything under control. I envied that confidence. Sensing my hesitation, Elijah’s hand brushed mine. “How about a game?” he asked, gesturing to the poker table. “Something to lighten the mood?” I blushed. “Elijah, I don’t know anything about poker,” I said, surprised by his suggestion. “Who cares?” he said. “You’ll pick it up. Who knows? Maybe you’ll be the next card shark.” A smile tugged at my lips despite myself. But then my gaze shifted to Olivia, lounging nearby with a smug, knowing look. Her presence sparked something in me—somethi