"Hey there, look who finally decided to join us!" came a playful voice from downstairs.

Four people were huddled around a poker table, deeply engrossed in their game. Sophie had just managed to pull Timothy into the fray. Upon seeing Colby come down the stairs, Adler threw down a card, grinning, "What were you two big shots talking about that's so hush-hush? Not even Sophie gets to know?"

"Private business," Colby replied, descending the last few steps. He noticed the trio exchanging sneaky signals under the table, clearly planning to gang up on Timothy. He looked away, pretending to be oblivious.

Sophie caught Colby's eye and gave him a subtle nod. Colby moved behind Timothy, took a quick peek at his hand, then signaled back to Sophie.

"Queen of Hearts," Timothy said, discarding his card.

"Gotcha!" Sophie declared, spreading her cards out with a triumphant smile.

Timothy stared at the table, bewildered. Who bets everything on a Queen of Hearts?

Adler chuckled, "Ah, young man, you're still too green. Ms. Sophie just outfoxed you. Time to pay up."

Timothy sighed and handed over a crisp bill to Sophie. The stakes were high, and in just a few rounds, Timothy had lost thousands.

the next big power player." "With Sophie in our corner, who cares if

*Snap*

an East Wind tile, and Sophie won yet again. "Sorry,

the East

Timothy stood up. "Ms. Sophie, I'm going to clean up," he said, walking

It's just a

at their haul, while Sophie exchanged a knowing glance with Colby. Colby nodded and followed

standing up. Adler and Jenna quickly

the restroom,

his earrings, necklace, and

wristband, quickly assembling a

He

message about Sophie's surprise visit to Burke

aback.

for Colby, who had him pinned to the

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