THE CHALLENGE

Chloe wasn't going to wait for Milan's next move. If she let him dictate the game, she'd always be a step behind. So instead of sitting around for another one of his cryptic invitations, she decided to act.

After some careful digging, she uncovered something interesting—an exclusive, off-the-radar poker game held in a private club owned by one of Milan's associates. The kind of place where money, power, and secrets changed hands in equal measure. If Milan was there, she would be too.

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The club was nothing like the lavish venues Milan had taken her to before. This was a place for insiders, hidden behind an unmarked entrance in the heart of the city. The moment Chloe stepped in, she felt the shift—dim lighting, thick cigar smoke, and the quiet hum of dangerous men placing bets far bigger than money.

She kept her posture confident, scanning the room. Milan was seated at a private table near the back, his fingers lazily spinning a poker chip between them. Around him sat men who radiated wealth and violence. And then, there was Viktor—leaning back in his chair, watching her before she even had the chance to fully take in the scene.

Damn.

Chloe didn't flinch. Instead, she smiled, stepping forward like she belonged.

Milan's lips curled in amusement. "Crashing my evening, are we?"

She slid into the empty seat beside him, resting her chin on her hand. "You make it sound like I wasn't invited."

Milan chuckled, exchanging a glance with Viktor. "Bold. But you should know, detka, this isn't a place for spectators."

A man across the table, a grizzled figure with cold eyes, leaned forward. "She wants a seat at the table, she plays."

Chloe barely hesitated. "Deal me in."

A slow, approving smile spread across Milan's face. "Let's see if you can handle the stakes."

As the dealer shuffled, Chloe could feel the weight of every gaze on her. This wasn't just about cards—this was another test. And she had no choice but to win.