Florence didn’t care for being afraid. She lived her life boldly, outside the lines of what society considered normal female behavior. Tea parties and sewing circles were not for her. She had more exciting plans in her future. Dice and roulette wheels. Cards and craps games. Fear was some other woman’s problem.

She lifted her chin. “I presume you are Mr. Madden.”

“Have a seat.” Now behind his desk, he indicated one of the armchairs.

“Not until you answer my question.”

He paused and stared at her just long enough to make her uncomfortable. His eyes were dark and unfathomable, no hint to his thoughts whatsoever. “Was there a question, Miss Greene? Because I didn’t hear one.”

“Are you Mr. Madden?”

“I am, which means this is my casino. And you are trespassing.” He lowered himself into his large leather chair without waiting for her to be seated.

“No one has asked me to leave.”

“You are aware that women are forbidden from crossing our threshold. Yet, you’ve flouted that rule. Many times. Care to tell me why?”

“I assumed your policies had changed.” A lie. Her first visit she’d entered through the kitchens, sneaking into the main casino. On subsequent visits, she’d flashed a smile and pressed a large bill into the hand of the man at the door. The staff recognized her now, though she knew Madden’s benevolence was the reason for her continued admittance.

“Let’s do away with the pretense. My curiosity is the only reason you’ve gained access to the Bronze House. I’m requesting you satisfy that curiosity now.”

Though he spoke politely, it somehow sounded like a threat. “Or?”

“Most people are smart enough not to refuse my requests.”

“You won’t hurt me.” It came out with more confidence than she felt. Inside, doubt twisted her stomach into knots.

One dark brow shot up. “Won’t I?”

“I don’t intimidate easily, Mr. Madden.”

A flash of something passed over his face, a glimpse of appreciation, perhaps. Had her answer pleased him?

“I’m beginning to see that. After all, someone nearly drugged your sister here and yet you return.”

Florence waved her hand. Mamie hadn’t been fooled. The man’s clumsy attempt at pouring an unknown liquid into her champagne had been as obvious as the heat in Hades. Besides, Florence felt eyes on her every time she visited the Bronze House—a protective presence that wouldn’t dare allow anything terrible to befall her within these walls.

Had it been Madden looking out for her? Watching her?

She wasn’t certain if the idea excited or frightened her.

“I’m perfectly safe inside your casino.”

He didn’t bother to confirm or deny it. Instead, he said, “You show a remarkable skill at the tables. How did an uptown debutante learn such things?”

She lifted a shoulder. “Practice.”