Ago

Annie carried a large black tote bag, stepping into Night Bar to be engulfed by the blaring music and vibrant lights. With a cool demeanor, she peered at the final message on her phone: [Private Room 666, be there in ten or face the music.]

“Annoying! Why’s he gotta make everything so complicated? Repaying the money could’ve been handled with a simple transfer, but Jackson insisted on cash, plus demanded my personal delivery, all at a particular time and place. Annie’s delicate brows furrowed unconsciously, her face darkening.

Whispers floated around her. “Check out that fierce expression. Is she on the lookout for a cheater?”

“Better steer clear. Don’t wanna get caught in the crossfire.”

Annie paused, an impulse nudging her to retreat. Yet, she braved on, seeking directions from the bartender and making her way toward Private Room 666.

Strolling past a card table, she caught a familiar voice.

“Oh, Mr. Sanders, I’ve had enough to drink.”

“Had your fill? How ‘bout this–swap the drink for a kiss, and I’ll take it off your hands.”

“Come on, you’re incorrigible.”

“Ever heard that? Men aren’t bad; they’re just unloved.”

Annie turned over instinctively and spotted a ladies‘ man with arms draped around two heavily made–up women, flashing a flirtatious grin.

It was Annie’s old acquaintance, Tom Sanders, Jessica’s older brother. Despite being John’s son, Tom was much like Zachary–frolicking outside, seldom gracing home with his

presence. Annie nearly forgot he also played a part in her family’s downfall. Her eyes narrowed, fixating on him like prey.

Just then, a buzz emanated from her bag, a fresh message: [Two minutes to go.]

‘Geez, I owe him big time? I’ll handle this mess first, then deal with the Sanders family!‘ Annie clenched her teeth, seized the bag, and dashed towards the private room. Shoving the door ajar, she began with a brusque tone, “Jacks…”

Before she could finish the word, she locked eyes with Jackson leaning against the door. He propped a leg against the wall lazily. Being a head taller, his eyes peered down at

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Annic, radiating a natural charm that caught one off guard.

Despite her reservations about Jackson, Annie had to admit–he was good–looking. Pausing for a beat, she snapped back to reality. “What are you doing by the door?”

Jackson’s lips curled into a charming smile as he leaned in abruptly. “Since you’re here, do me a favor.”

“Not interested. By the way, back off.” Annie wasted no time pushing Jackson away, giving off an air of distaste. Their current positioning against the wall seemed too intimate for comfort.

‘Despite her deep resentment towards Jeremy, she could act all cool around him. But when it comes to me, she doesn’t even try to hide how she feels. Am I really that repulsive to her?‘ Bending a bit, Jackson inched closer, his deep voice right by her ear. “Help me out, and I’ll owe you a favor.”

That intrigued Annie. “What sort of favor?

Jackson’s gaze lingered on her beautiful red lips briefly. “A kiss.”

༢། ཤ ཇ ཚ་

‘A kiss?‘ Annie’s eyes glanced from Jackson to the crowd of people in the spacious private room, and suddenly it clicked–he lost a bet. She shut her eyes, lifted her chin, and without hesitation, said, “Let’s do it.”

‘She’s so practical, flipping her attitude dramatically at the hint of perks. Jackson chuckled softly, his slender fingers gently lifting Annie’s chin as he leaned in. His cool lips brushed hers delicately.

Their brief kiss felt as light as a feather, skimming Annie’s heart, making her breath quicken slightly.

The once serene private room erupted into chatter.

“Wow, Jackson really lay one on her?”

“Ain’t Jackson known for keepin‘ his distance from women? Who’s this new gal?”

“Did they really kiss? It happened so fast that I missed it!”

Amidst the noise, Annie calmly retrieved a tissue from her bag and dabbed her lips, muttering. “Just like getting bitten by a pet”

Jackson heard it, and his eyes turned frosty, narrowing dangerously. He gripped Annie’s arm, pulling her into the room. “Since you’re here, how ‘bout a round before you head out?”

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Annick eyes lit up. A second favor?”

“Dream on Jackson shot her a cold look, ineering. “If you dare to leave, we’ll settle the debt some other time”

Darn it! Annie nearly cursed. Ain’t I supposed to be the one calling the shots as the debtor? I came here to settle my debts, and now he’s acting even more arrogant?” She fought the urge to speak her mind and storm out, realizing she’d have to confront him again if she did. Taking a deep breath, Annie spoke up. “Alright then. Bring it on!”

Jackson flashed a satisfied grin and shot Donald on the sofa a glance. Donald swiftly gestured, “Hey Annie, have a seat over here.

As Annie settled in, all eyes turned towards her.

“Mr. Hudson, who’s this lady?” asked Melinda Smith, an actress whose fame soared from starring in several hit TV series, making her a household name across the nation.

Annie recognized Melinda and noticed rivalry in her gaze, jumping in before Jackson could speak. “Creditor!”

“What?” Confusion rippled through the crowd.

Annie clarified, “I owe Mr. Hudson money. Watching Melinda’s expression, Annie could tell she was here for Jackson. Annie was just returning some money and wasn’t looking to make enemies over a guy.

“She’s right.” Jackson slouched on the sofa nonchalantly.

*

Someone laughed. Creditor? Is it a debt of the heart?”

The realization dawned on everyone. “Oh, what an impressive game!”

Melinda expressed her discontent, “Are we still playing games?”

“Of course! Come on!” replied a man.

The game continued, and as poker cards were dealt to Annie, she picked a card carelessly.

Jackson glimpsed at her card with a mischievous smile.

Following a round, Melinda revealed a king card, grinning, “Apologies, folks, another win for me.”

“Wow, Melinda, you’re on fire! Two wins in a row!”

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“Come on, spill it! Who’s up next and what’s the dare?”

Melinda’s eyes darted around until she locked gaze with Annie, smiling, “I choose the King of Spades to strut out into the hall and ask the first guy you meet for a night.”

“Melinda sure knows how to play!”

“It would be hilarious if a guy draws that.”

“Who drew the King of Spades?”

Annie looked at her card and couldn’t help but chuckle at her rotten luck. Her gaze met Jackson’s, who wasn’t surprised by her draw. Arching her brow, she quizzed, “Is that how you were punished just now?”

In the midst of the room’s clamor, Jackson leaned in close. “Wanna know it?”