Later that day…
Augustine had to leave for the branch office of the Sphere Group. Before leaving, he had instructed Anne to go home after work and wait for him.
After the meeting, Gustave came over and said something in a hushed tone.
Augustine's expression hardened. "Let's go there. I want to talk to him."
He strode into the elevator, Gustave following him.
It was already dusk when they arrived at an underground casino. Reckless energy buzzed in the whole place. Cigarette smoke curled in the air, thick and suffocating, mixing with the sharp scent of liquor and sweat. Flashing neon lights painted the room in violent shades of red and green.
At the crowded poker tables, men with hardened faces and sharp suits barked out bets, laughter erupting as chips clattered into growing piles. In the corners, scantily clad dancers swayed to the pounding bass, their movements wild and hypnotic.
The air was electric, thick with desperation, greed, and the feverish thrill of risk.
