Chapter 200

"Show your cards."

"Mr. Peterson wins," Michael said, revealing his hand with a smile despite losing. "You've got some luck, Mr. Peterson."

The dealer pushed all the chips to Parker.

Parker grinned. "Thanks to Michael."

Michael replied, "No need for formalities. We're all friends, and Richard gave the go-ahead."

Michael glanced at Nancy beside Parker, teasing, "Mr. Peterson, you've got good luck and a good eye."

"Not at all. Nancy, say hi to Michael."

Nancy stood up and sweetly said, "Michael."

"Nancy?" Michael said with a hint of playfulness, "Nice name"

In the room, all the men wore long sleeves and pants, except Nancy, who wore very little. Her outfit barely covered her, drawing a lot of attention.

As she stood, all eyes were on her.

Nancy seemed shy, lowering her head but sneaking glances at Jack to see his reaction.

Jack showed no reaction.

Michael smiled, stood up, and said, "I have to go."

With that, Michael left.

Kelsey and Jack followed.

As they exited, Kelsey saw Nancy's angry eyes fixed on Jack.

Kelsey looked at Jack. "Didn't you recognize her?"

"What?" Jack asked.

"That Nancy inside, isn't she your fiancée?" Kelsey bluntly said, "You used to protect her so much, but now you see her with another man and stay indifferent?"

Jack pressed his lips tightly, saying nothing.

Kelsey couldn't resist. "I thought you were deeply in love, but you're just like those men, heartless and cold."

Jack stayed silent.

He felt a lump in his chest, unable to swallow it down.

Why did Kelsey's words sting so much?

"Ms. Jose, it's unethical to kick someone when they're down."

Kelsey sneered. "Haven't you lectured me as well?"

Rolling her eyes, Kelsey quickened her pace, leaving Jack behind.

Jack was speechless.

They moved to another private room.

Michael had someone bring tea and snacks. He sat, lighting a cigarette.

"Go ahead! What do you need from Richard?"

Kelsey stepped forward. "When will Mr. Cole be back?"

Michael eyed her through the smoke. "He didn't specify. What's so urgent?"

"It's Nina," Kelsey said.

"Nina?" Michael paused.

Remembering Richard's instructions, he asked, "What's wrong with her?"

"Nina's depressed, not eating, barely alive. I want Mr. Cole to visit her." Kelsey looked anxious and worried, her eyes moistening.

Michael was silent for a moment, then said, "Depression is a mental illness. Richard isn't a doctor. Even if he goes, Nina might not listen."

"She will!" Kelsey insisted. "Last time, no one could get through to her, but Mr. Cole did."

Michael took a long drag on his cigarette and exhaled. "Nina's not young anymore, yet she still acts so dramatic. She hits a minor bump and goes on a hunger strike. What's the point? Richard cares deeply for her, but she doesn't seem to care about his feelings."

Kelsey was taken aback. "What do you mean?"

"Nothing," Michael said, waving his hand and putting out the cigarette. "Richard isn't in Lakina right now. I don't know when he'll be back, and I can't contact him during his trips. I'll let him know as soon as I can reach him or when he returns. But..."

Michael paused, then continued, "Ms. Jose, tell Nina that if she wants Richard to care for her, she should care for him too. Relationships go both ways."

Kelsey was puzzled. "What's wrong with Mr. Cole? He's so strong. Does he need others to care for him?"

Michael laughed. "Just because someone is strong doesn't mean they don't need care."

Michael looked away. "Take care! The casino is busy, so I won't see you off."

With that, Kelsey and Jack were shown out.

Kelsey was a bit skeptical. "Jack, do you think Mr. Cole is really not in Lakina?"

Jack shrugged. "Richard's identity is special. He does go out periodically. I don't think Michael would lie."

Kelsey had nothing more to say.

As they walked out, they saw Nancy, draped in fur, standing in the cold wind.

Nancy was alone; Parker was nowhere to be seen.

"Jack," Nancy called, blocking their path.

Kelsey raised an eyebrow and instinctively stepped aside to leave.

But Jack suddenly grabbed her hand.

Kelsey was stunned.

Nancy also paused, looking at him holding Kelsey's hand, her lips pressed tightly.

Nancy looked at Jack expectantly. "Jack, I have something important to tell you."

Jack looked at Nancy, conflicted.

After a moment, he let go of Kelsey's hand. "Ms. Jose, please wait for me outside."

Kelsey stared into his eyes, then smirked and walked away.

That smile felt like a brand, searing into Jack's heart.

Jack felt a bit uncomfortable.

"Jack, are you still mad at me?" Nancy reached out to grab his hand.

But as soon as her fingers touched him, Jack pulled away.

"What's the matter?" Jack asked directly.

Nancy looked hurt. "Jack, why didn't you return my calls or messages? Do you hate me that much?"

Jack's voice was calm. "Didn't you say it yourself? From now on, we have no relationship. If that's the case, there's no need to stay in touch."

Nancy shook her head. "That's not what I meant."

"Then what do you mean?"

"Jack, please don't be mad at me, okay? We've grown up together, and I've always seen you as a brother. It was my parents who insisted you take care of me for life to repay their kindness. It's my fault; I should have made it clear to you earlier."