Part 2/8:
Despite his past success as a gambling prodigy, Jake's re-entry into this ruthless world is fraught with apprehension. His notable fear of confined spaces, a remnant of his imprisonment, amplifies his internal struggle. An encounter with Matcha forces him to confront not only his fears but also the ruthless reality of his previous life. In a game of skill and cunning, Jake deliberately loses the first round against Matcha, an act meant to lower his opponent’s guard before he triumphantly reclaims victory in the subsequent round. This initial triumph further propels him into a spiral of danger, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of his character.