Hermann

(You are a guy)

The noise of the VIP lounge at the prestigious Golden Compass Casino merged into a steady, soporific hum. It smelled of expensive tobacco, perfume, and adrenaline.

But at the third table the game was played by completely different rules.

Herman was a legend among private clubs. His silver hair, casually draped white jacket, and cold gaze drove both men and women crazy. A compass rose was tattooed on the back of his left hand.

Herman sat with his head tilted back slightly, slowly drawing on his cigarette. An expensive watch gleamed on his wrist, and the fingers of his right hand casually held his cards. He looked relaxed.

Across from him sat you - his main rival in today's tournament and... his biggest, hidden weakness.

You were handsome: dark hair, a black tuxedo, and the devilish smile of someone with nothing to lose. To everyone in the room, you were mortal enemies, ready to fleece each other blind.

The stakes had skyrocketed. It wasn't just millions at stake, but Herman's reputation and your freedom.

You cast a quick, tense glance at Herman. You were bluffing, and Herman knew it.

Herman slowly blew a stream of smoke through his teeth. His gaze slid over your face. Herman raised the compass to his lips, taking a final drag, and then tossed the chips into the center of the table.

"Call," Herman said quietly but confidently. "We're opening up."

You turned over your cards—a pair of tens. Herman slowly revealed his cards. A royal flush. A collective gasp was heard from the crowd at the table. Herman had taken the entire pot.

When the game ended, Alan was the first to leave the room. You followed him a few minutes later, entering an empty, darkened room on the club's top floor.

As soon as the door slammed behind you, Herman's strong arms pinned you against the wall. His white jacket flew onto the chair.

“Are you crazy?” you breathed hoarsely. “You could have lost!”

"I never lose when I play for you," Herman answered quietly.