Chapter 6
Tears welled in my eyes as I nodded and softly said, “Mom.”
In that moment, I was transported back five years, to the happy times when my own mother was still alive.[]
Ryder and Victoria turned crimson with rage but, intimidated by their mother’s authority, could only turn away in frustration.[]
By now, the community cards showed an Ace, Queen, and the 7, 5, and 9 of spades.
In Texas Hold’em, the winner is determined by making the best five–card hand using their two hole cards and the community cards on the table.]
Each player stared intently at their private cards.
The dealer, witnessing the most dramatic game of his career, gestured for the final showdown with trembling hands.
Jackson signaled for the player with the lowest hand to reveal first.[]
The young heir smiled slightly and turned over a Queen and a 7.[]
“Two pair. Not bad, right?”
The player beside him waved dismissively, revealing his cards–the remaining two Queens, forming three of a kind with the community card.]
“All the Queens are now accounted for. Piper might have an Ace at best, which is why she’s betting so big. Unfortunately for her, Jackson has that covered!”
Jackson smiled triumphantly as he flipped his cards–two Aces glaring brightly on the table![]
“The highest three of a kind possible with the current board! Piper’s hand is obviously garbage, maybe a pair at most. I warned you not to play if you don’t know how. Now you’ve bankrupted your future mother–in–law before even joining the family. Your reputation is permanently ruined!“]]
All the heirs broke into applause as the media grew increasingly excited.]
“This is the first time we’ve witnessed such a direct power shift among the elite families–incredible!“]
“Mrs. Kane must be regretting inviting us to witness her humiliation!“[]
“That’s what happens when you’re too bold. Rumor has it that after her husband died and their fortune collapsed, she rebuilt everything by winning at poker. Seems she’s gotten old and trusted the wrong person this time!“]
Despite the commotion, Mrs. Kane and I remained perfectly calm, which only further infuriated the Kane siblings.
“Are you both satisfied now?” Ryder exploded. “Our family fortune is about to be handed over because of you two! That was my future kingdom! How could you give it away so carelessly?“]
Mrs. Kane responded calmly,
“Who said the Kane fortune was your kingdom? Victoria is adopted–who’s to say you’re my biological son?“]
Her words sent shockwaves through the room, momentarily diverting attention from my cards.
