We placed our trays—still mostly laden with food—on the large metal table in the kitchen area and exchanged uneasy glances. Was our work finished? The question lingered in the air as casino employees closed in around us.

“Is the event over? Is there anything else you need us to do?” Amara asked, directing her question to a man who appeared to be in charge. Her voice was steady, but her clenched fists betrayed her nerves. Standing beside her, I tried to project calm, though my ...