BEYOND THE LOVE

CHAPTER 16:

The ambient hum of the Neon Nectar gradually filled my ears as I looked around, searching for any sign of Zaerim. The lights dimmed a shade, casting a mysterious glow around the bar. While my focus was on finding Zaerim, I couldn’t help but feel a steady gaze fixed on me.

From the corner of my eye, I could tell it was Rein. He sat there, a glass of whiskey in his hand, eyes intent upon me. What is he thinking? - I pondered. But before I could delve further into that thought, Suha's laughter resonated through the bar.

I saw her gesturing animatedly to Juan, Ji Woon, and Kyoto about something.

"You know, for someone who claims he's just concerned about Nara's well-being, Rein seems pretty...focused on her," Suha remarked with a mischievous grin, giving a quick glance in Rein’s direction.

Kyoto smirked, "Well, the heart wants what it wants."

Juan chuckled, "Oh, come on. It's past"

Kyoto, ever the observer, raised a brow, "Perhaps. But somethings evolve."

Suha, clearly enjoying the gossip, leaned in closer, her voice dropping to a playful whisper, "So, what's the verdict? Old flames? Or just two comrades?"

Ji woon shrugged, "Who knows? But it's evident that their dynamic isn't as simple as it seems."

I pretended not to hear their chatter, but their words certainly fanned the embers of thoughts I had been suppressing. Why was Rein looking at me so intently? And where is Zaerim?
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As if on cue, a familiar voice called out, "Nara."

I turned to find Zaerim approaching, a calm expression on his face. "Sorry I'm late," he began.

I sighed, relieved, "It's about time, Zaerim. We have a lot to discuss."

Rein's intense gaze lingered a moment longer on me before returning to his drink, while the murmurs and speculations of our team continued in hushed whispers.

As Zaerim approached, I immediately sensed the gravity in his demeanor. "Let's find somewhere quiet," he whispered.
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Leading me to a secluded booth, the heir of the Zae Group slid into the seat across from me, his fingers drumming lightly on the table. "Nara, I have some concerning information about the Eviscerators."

I leaned in, my senses on high alert. "Go on."

His eyes darted around before meeting mine. "From what my sources tell me, the Eviscerators are not operating alone. They're working under the command of a much larger and powerful one."

I frowned, digesting the revelation. "And they're trying to cut down the Phoenix Syndicate?"

"For unknown reasons. The Phoenix Syndicate has been deeply embedded within the underworld for years, providing illicit services to business magnates and politicians. They're essentially the bridge between the underworld and the corporate world, making sure deals go smoothly and secrets remain buried. However, they're more ruthless."

Zaerim continued, "Their reputation is precisely why they're in high demand among powerful business circles. You'd be surprised at how many well-respected entrepreneurs and politicians have ties to the Phoenix Syndicate. They're seen as a necessary evil, and many of the dealings that take place in the shadows are made possible by them."

I raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "So, the Phoenix Syndicate operates in the shadows, aiding businesses and politicians in their dirty dealings. That doesn’t surprise me. But why are the Eviscerators targeting them?"

Zaerim took a deep breath. "That's the million-dollar question. The Eviscerators are relatively new to the scene, but their rise to power has been swift. They don't seem to have the same ethics as the Phoenix Syndicate and are a lot more aggressive. From the little I've managed to gather, it's possible they're trying to usurp the Phoenix Syndicate's position and take over their client base."

I frowned, deep in thought. "That would mean a complete restructuring of power in the underworld. It could lead to a massive power struggle, impacting not only the criminal world but also the corporate one."

Zaerim nodded, "Exactly. It's more than just a turf war. This could have repercussions on a global scale, affecting businesses, stock markets, and even political alliances."

I sighed, the weight of the situation bearing down on me. "What's our move then?"

"We need to figure out who's backing the Eviscerators and why. If we can uncover their endgame, we might have a chance to thwart their plans."
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Zaerim leaned closer. "We need to tread carefully, Nara. "

"I understand," I replied. "Let's keep this between us for now. We'll figure out the best way to handle it."
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We sat in contemplative silence for a moment, the weight of the situation pressing down on both of us. Finally, I broke the silence. I stretched a bit "Thank you for the information, Zaerim. I'll be in touch."

Zaerim nodded, his expression earnest. "Just be careful, Nara. These are dangerous times."

I gave him a small smile, appreciating his concern. "Always am." I then turned and made my way towards the group.

From a distance, I could see the group deeply engrossed in conversation with Rein. The air seemed thick with tension. As I drew closer, the dynamics became clearer; there was an undeniable undercurrent between Rein and me. The unresolved matters all hung between us like a heavy curtain.

Suha, caught on to it first. "Oh, look who finally decided to join us," she teased, her eyes darting between Rein and me, clearly enjoying the tension-filled moment.

I rolled my eyes, ignoring the bait. "It was a long conversation," I explained dismissively, avoiding Rein's gaze.

"Guess we better head out," Kyoto remarked, trying to defuse the situation.

I nodded in agreement. "I'm leaving. See you all later."