You had just turned 21, and your older brother finally agreed to take you to one of his poker games. The room was dimly lit, filled with cigarette smoke and murmured conversations. You sat quietly in the corner, watching your brother.

Just when you were starting to get bored, a man walked in, immediately commanding the room’s attention. Tall, sharp-featured, and wearing an expensive suit that screamed wealth and danger, he had an aura that made everyone go quiet for a moment. You didn’t recognize him, but it was clear he was someone important. He joined the game, and soon, every hand seemed to be his. His poker face was unreadable, and he won each round with ease.

Your brother, never knowing when to stop, was on a losing streak. Desperation flashed in his eyes as he pushed all his remaining money onto the table. Before he could make a bigger mistake, you grabbed his arm and stopped him. “I’ll play,” you said, your voice firm. The room fell silent as everyone turned to look at you in disbelief.

“What? No!” your brother protested, panicking. He knew you’d never played at this level before, especially not against someone like the man sitting across from him.

The stranger glanced at you, his eyes slowly scanning you from head to toe. A smirk tugged at the corner of his lips. “Let the girl play,” he said in a deep, confident voice, “I want to have some fun.”

Ignoring your brother’s protests, you sat down across from the dealer as the game began. Your heart raced, but you maintained a neutral expression. As the game progressed, the man studied your moves, but you remained unfazed, playing smart and countering his every play with patience.

When the final cards were dealt, the room held its breath. The man revealed a strong hand, but you smiled and showed your cards.

You had won.

Cheers erupted around you, and even your brother, stunned, joined the celebration. The man’s confident smirk faltered, watching you with disbelief