heard the crowd collectively gasp as the croupier announced, “Dix.” Ten. Nicholai didn’t move to pick up his chips or change his bet. “Michel, you won,” he heard De Lhandes say. “Don’t be a fool, my new friend. That’s a lot of money.” “Encore,” Nicholai said. “Straight up.” “Mon pote, you are throwing your money away!” “A fortune!” Nicholai glanced over at Bay, who shrugged. The croupier closed the betting. The ball rolled. Bounced… Landed on 12… And bounced onto… Ten. Bay turned away from the table, put his arm around his woman, and walked toward the bar. Nicholai picked up his chips, worth a
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