The Unshackled Queen: Never Say Never by Gilbert Soysal

Hannah’s subtle gesture halted him in his tracks, prompting Atticus to withdraw quietly, settling into a seat across from the assembled crowd.

The entrance of the enigmatic figure, adorned in a rabbit mask, sent ripples of curiosity through the room, momentarily hushing the murmurs that had filled the halt.

“What’s with the costume? Are we in some kind of cosplay convention?”

“Why hide behind a mask? Can’t the boss show his face like a normal person?” another chimed in.

“Is this all just a grand entrance, or is there a point to it?” questioned a third.

“When will the game begin? Let’s cut to the chase already,” another impatient participant demanded.

As the rabbit-masked man settled at a sleek black table, the eager anticipation in the air was palpable.

His tone sounded raspy and distorted as he began to address the gathered crowd.

“Since you’re all itching to get started, allow me to explain the rules.

”

voice was muffled, likely altered by some device concealed within the depths

remained fixed on the masked

of his gaze, the man locked eyes with her before addressing

is simple, a familiar one to

We’ll be playing blackjack.

player receives two cards, one face-up and one face-

additional cards, aiming to get as close to

”

of familiarity; after all, blackjack was a staple in casinos, a game Hannah

hinged on a delicate balance of psychology

skill, too,

reading opponents and blessed with a stroke of luck

demanded nerves of steel to navigate the game’s twists

fellow players, Hannah pondered their chances against such a

man pressed on, his

simple, so I

share in the five

I’ve made myself