𝐕𝐈𝐆𝐈𝐋𝐀𝐍𝐂𝐄

𝐅𝐎𝐔𝐑𝐓𝐄𝐄𝐍

As I sat in the office with Kane and Damian, I knew this was my chance to convince them that I was exactly who I claimed to be. The atmosphere in the room was tense but manageable. Damian sat across from me, absently fidgeting with a pen, his fingers tapping a quiet rhythm against the sleek surface of the desk. Kane, on the other hand, appeared far more composed, leaning back into his chair with an air of charge. His eyes met mine, and I could tell he was about to speak.

"Before we begin," Kane started, his tone carrying a subtle warning, "I should mention that I manage the casinos for this estate. So, I'm well-acquainted with the workings and expectations of this environment."

His words hung in the air, a subtle warning cloaked in professionalism. I could feel the tension in the room ratchet up a notch. I knew I had to be careful—one slip-up, and I could ruin everything. But I couldn't let my fear show.

Kane leaned forward slightly, signalling that he was about to delve into specifics. "I've reviewed your documents," he began, his voice taking on a more probing tone. "But I'd like to hear more from you directly. Can you tell me about your education, how you ended up working in a casino, and what position you held?" He clasped his hands together, a movement that suggested he was about to get to the heart of the matter. "And of course, what skills have you developed that might be useful to us?"

"Well," I took a deep breath, fighting to keep my voice steady as I began my response. "I attended community college, where I studied business and hospitality. After graduation, I sought work that would allow me to use what I'd learned. That's how I ended up at the casino."

Kane's gaze remained unflinching, and I continued, "I started in a customer service role, handling guest interactions and ensuring their satisfaction. I quickly moved into management, where I oversaw the gaming floor, managed transactions, and resolved disputes."

Damian's pen stilled as he listened intently.

Kane's expression was neutral, but his eyes were sharp, absorbing every detail.

"One of the most important skills I developed was my ability to blend in seamlessly. Being able to camouflage myself and not draw unwanted attention." I paused, weighing the impact of my next words. "I often managed under-the-table transactions and discreetly orchestrated activities that required a delicate touch."

"For instance?" Kane inquired.

Breathe, Sienna. Breathe.

"For instance, I was involved in rigging games and facilitating covert financial dealings."

Kane and Damian's eyes lit up at my admission, their expressions shifting from mild curiosity to unmistakable interest. Damian, who had been quiet until now, finally spoke up.

"Without a doubt, your experience and acquired skills are highly useful in an environment like ours. The ability to operate under the radar, maintain discretion, and execute complex tasks without drawing undue attention is precisely what we need." He said, his tone carrying a sense of importance. "We had already been contemplating offering you a role at the casino. However, proving your reliability is essential before you're granted any significant level of freedom."

Kane inclined his head in quiet agreement. "Even if we're willing to consider you for the job, we'll need to see you in action first." He added. "It's one thing to talk the talk, but in our line of work, performance is everything."

"That's right." Damian then leaned in slightly, "I have one final question for you." He said.

Kane's eyes locked onto Damian's, an unspoken understanding passing between them.

"Can you walk in heels, Claire?"