Page 6 of Mr. January

Chapter Five

Robyn -15 years ago

The bright lights of the casino flicker in the background as I navigate through the chaos of slot machines and card tables. At 22, my dreams are simple—education, a stable job, and a better life. Working in the casino offers me that chance, but it's not without its challenges.

I've taken on a job as a cocktail waitress that allows me access to the heart of the casino—a place where money flows freely. It's a means to an end, a way to secure a future for my family. Coming from a middle-income background, I've always been determined to finish my education and land a well-paying job. Little did I know that my story was about to weave into Knox's, creating a narrative filled with ambition, secrecy, and unexpected connections.

But amidst the glamour of the casino, I carry a weight that not many see. I am the backbone of my family and the caregiver to my four younger siblings—Aradhya (16), Rohan (14), Diya (10), and little Anika (5). When my older brother, Arjun (25), was incarcerated, life took an unexpected turn, and I had to step into the role of caretaker.

Three years ago, tragedy struck mercilessly. A fatal accident claimed the lives of my parents, thrusting me into the responsibility of a surrogate mother. Determined to keep my family together, I put my college education on hold to provide for my siblings. The job at the casino, with its decent pay and generous tips, seemed like a blessing—a lifeline in the storm of responsibilities.

Yet, as life would have it, another blow struck. Anika, the youngest and most fragile among us, was diagnosed with cancer. The financial strain grew unbearable, and the casino, once a refuge, became a reminder of the struggles we faced.

Last month, the sterile atmosphere of the minimum-security facility created a stark backdrop as I sat across from my older brother, Arjun, during visitation. His incarceration has added another layer of complexity to our already challenging lives. I take a deep breath before delving into the harsh reality of our circumstances.

"Arjun, I don't want to resort to stealing, but I feel trapped. The bills keep piling up, and Anika's medical expenses are draining us. I can't follow the same path that led you here,"I express with a mix of frustration and desperation.

Arjun, confined by the constraints of the facility, listens intently."Robyn, I know it's tough. But you can't go down that road. I don't want you ending up here too,"he advises, his concern evident in his eyes.

"I'm trying, Arjun. I really am. But with you in here and our parents gone, it feels like the weight of the world is on my shoulders. I can't see a way out,"I confess, grappling with the harsh reality of our situation.

Arjun leans forward, a gesture of comfort despite the circumstances."Look, sis, we'll figure this out together. There has to be another way. Maybe there are support programs or assistance we haven't explored yet. We'll find a solution that doesn't compromise your future."

Sitting in the cold, bleak visitation room, the harsh reality of our struggles permeates the air. I nod, my determination unwavering as I lock eyes with my brother. "We have to find another way," I assert, voice resolute. The challenge ahead is to discover a path that won't lead us down the same destructive road that consumed him.

I'm leaving no stone unturned, desperately seeking answers for the financial help we need. "Just a bit of money, for now, to tide us over until assistance comes through," I explain, my gaze unwavering on my brother.

In the midst of the cacophony of slot machines and the intense atmosphere of high-stakes games, I find myself balancing responsibilities, dreams, and the harsh realities of life. My job as a server in the casino is a necessary means to make ends meet, and it offers me a glimpse into a world of opulence and wealth. Little do the patrons know, behind the scenes, I'm battling demons that remain hidden from view.

My thoughts are interrupted as I nervously navigate the maze of tables, carrying a tray laden with drinks for the upscale clientele. Among the sea of faces, one particular high roller catches my eye. He exudes wealth and charisma, and he's always ordering the most exclusive drinks, generously tipping the staff. I keep an eye out for him in the crowd.

Summoning my courage, I approach him, but my nerves threaten to betray me. A minor accident unfolds, causing a drink to spill, and I shoot him an apologetic glance, feeling my cheeks flush with embarrassment. Those hazel eyes of his meet mine, and I'm momentarily tongue-tied.

Trying to regain my composure, I apologize quickly, my gaze lingering on his handsome face and the charming grin that forms on his lips. "I'm so sorry," I stammer. He rises from the table where he is engaged in a game and offers his assistance with the spilled drinks. "It's okay," he assures me, his voice soothing, and I can't help but steal another glance at those captivating hazel eyes.

"No, you don't have to,"I insist, but he shakes his head and helps me anyway as we place the drinks back on the tray. He reaches into his pocket and pulls out a note and a hundred-dollar bill."If you don't mind, I'll still take that drink,"he winks at me and sits back at the table.

The dim lights of the underground casino cast a mysterious glow as I weave through the crowd, trays of drinks in hand. Working as a server in this secret haven of high-stakes gambling has its perks, but tonight, I stumble upon an unexpected opportunity that could change my family's fortune.

It all begins with an invitation, discreetly slipped into my hands after serving a particularly high-rolling table. The message is cryptic, hinting at a private party reserved for the elite players. Intrigued, I follow the instructions and find myself standing before an unmarked door.

Behind it lies a world I never knew existed—the exclusive realm of underground games. The stakes are high, the players are seasoned, and the atmosphere buzzes with anticipation. My role as a server seems inconspicuous, but the game's allure pulls me in.

The wealthy, handsome, and sophisticated man I've served countless times is sitting right in the middle of this clandestine event. His invitation extends not just to work the party but as his personal server all night.

A bold idea forms in my mind—I want to play, not just serve. Perhaps I can win the money I need for my siblings.

However, I bide my time, my eyes tracing the room, as I continue serving drinks throughout the night. His gaze lingers on me, and as I approach him, our fingers brush against each other. A jolt of electricity shoots up my arm, and I can tell he feels it too. It's as if an unspoken connection crackles between us, igniting an enticing dance that plays out over the next few nights. By day, he's a regular casino player, but at night, he extends a special invitation for me to join him in the underground world where the money flows like a river. One evening, following a particularly successful hand for him, he leans in and whispers those tantalizing words, "Can I talk to you privately?"

He gracefully excuses himself from the underground game, leaving the table in suspense. As he guides me to a more secluded corner, his intense gaze remains fixed on me, and I struggle to keep my composure.

"What's your name?" he inquires, his voice hinting at intrigue and desire.

I nearly forget my own name, utterly captivated by his presence. "Robyn Ayyagari," I murmur, my voice a mere whisper in the charged atmosphere.

Leaning closer, he maintains eye contact with his piercing gaze. "How long have you been working here, Robyn?" he inquires, his words tinged with a hint of curiosity.

"Just a few months," I confess, the truth rolling off my lips like a confession.

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