Power

 
Here's a visual representation of where your money is going. (Source)

The bookie's power is a lot more passive than active. After all, you're not the one picking the winners and losers here—the outcome of the bet takes care of that. That's what makes gambling so fun, thrilling, and incredibly addictive. 

No matter the odds, there's always the chance the bettor will win and get some money for bills or debts or even a new car. Of course, odds are better that they won't, but that's beside the point.

However, if you aren't the decider, you're most certainly the facilitator. Bets don't get placed and winnings don't get paid without your say so, which means you take on the primary role on the gaming floor. In the eyes of the casino managers and Vegas odds makers (the ones who actually figure out the odds), you may be low rung on the ladder. But to the struggling masses begging you to take their money, you're almost a superhero.