Synopsis：I went into business with my childhood friend, Ian Ziegler. The company made a profit of 1.2 million dollars, yet he tossed me a measly five grand as my “share.” Seeing my displeasure, Ian wrapped his arm around my girlfriend, Nina Foster, and flicked the keys to his Bentley onto the table. “What, five thousand not enough for you? Fine. Tonight there’s a soccer match. We’re both going to bet on it. If you win, you get the entire 1.2 million and my car. But if you lose, your girlfriend is mine, and you’re going to kneel down and lick my shoes in front of everyone.” Laughter erupted around us, everyone eager to watch me get humiliated. I simply nodded. “Sure. I’ll take that bet.” None of them know that five years ago, I single‑handedly took down the Northwest Aravian illegal soccer betting ring, trapping a match‑fixing syndicate and beating them at their own game. I walked away from that world—until Ian was foolish enough to challenge me with a soccer bet.