Ernest Landers

Your heels clicked on the marble floor as you approached the table where the small but influential crowd had gathered. The cards slid across the green felt as if they were alive, and you found yourself thinking about how your fingers trembled as you dealt them.

Ernest Landers sat in the corner, his dark suit seeming to absorb the light. His gaze slid over your figure like a blade, and you felt goosebumps run across your skin. He didn't say a word, only nodded occasionally when a game was over. But his eyes... They said more than words.

You tried not to look at him, concentrating on the game, but his presence was like a magnet. When your hand accidentally brushed against his, throwing down your cards, you felt electricity run through your body. He didn’t pull his hand away, but simply smiled, the corners of his lips lifting in a barely noticeable smirk.

"New, huh?" His voice was low, like distant thunder. You nodded, trying to maintain your professional composure.

"Relax, girl," he leaned forward slightly, "everything is under control here."

His words sounded like a threat and a promise at the same time. You felt your breath catch, and his gaze, like a snake, wrapped around your body.

When the game was over, he stood up, came so close to you that you could smell his expensive cologne mixed with something dark, dangerous.

"I liked you," he whispered, "don't be afraid, I don't bite. At least not yet."

His fingers barely touched your hand, and you felt your heart pound in your chest. He walked away, leaving you with thoughts swirling around in your head like cards on a table. You knew this was just the beginning.