Run With The Devil

Preparation

Deon's pov

I stepped out of the shower, steam still curling around the bathroom, and began the process of getting ready for the evening. My routine was methodical and precise. First, I combed my damp hair back, ensuring every strand was in place. The black suit I had chosen for tonight's event was already laid out on the bed. It was a sleek, all-black ensemble, perfectly tailored to fit my frame.

As I walked into the bedroom, I reached for the cologne on the dresser. I applied a few spritzes, the scent a familiar and reassuring part of my pre-event ritual. The final touches were meticulous: slipping into the black loafers, adjusting the cuffs of my shirt, and checking the gleam of my Rolex. Everything had to be perfect.

With my attire complete, I grabbed the burner phone from the nightstand. It was a precautionary measure, one I kept for situations where discretion was paramount. Tonight was one of those nights.

I walked to Lyra's bedroom door, taking a moment to steady myself. My earlier interactions with her had been careful, trying to balance reassurance with maintaining a certain distance. But as we were about to enter a significant social event, I felt it was important to touch base one more time.

I knocked gently on the door, allowing a few moments of silence before speaking. "Lyra, it's Deon. Can I come in?"

I waited, listening for her response. The evening ahead would be challenging, and I needed to ensure she was comfortable and prepared for her role in this new phase of her life, even if it meant keeping her away from the main event.

The door creaked open slightly, and I saw her silhouette through the small gap. I gave a reassuring smile as the door opened wider.

"Deon," she said, her voice tentative. "What's up?"

I stepped inside, taking in the calm, yet slightly disheveled state of her room. It was clear she was still adjusting to her new surroundings. "I just wanted to check in on you before we head out. The ball is about to start, and I want to make sure you're settled and comfortable."

She nodded, her eyes scanning my attire. "You look sharp. I guess tonight's a big deal, huh?"

"It is," I replied. "It's an important event, and we'll need to be on top of our game. But for now, I want to make sure you're okay. Do you need anything?"

Lyra looked around, taking in the room's surroundings. "No, I'm good. Just trying to get used to everything."

I could sense the unease in her voice. "If you have any questions or need anything while we're gone, Harper will be around. She'll make sure you're taken care of."

She gave me a small smile, though it didn't quite reach her eyes. "Thanks, Deon. I appreciate it."

I nodded, feeling a pang of empathy. "I know this is a lot to take in, but we'll get through this. Just remember, if you need anything, don't hesitate to let Harper know."

Before leaving for the ball, I felt it was important to give Lyra a way to reach me directly if needed. I turned on the burner phone, making sure it was functional and ready for use. I programmed my number into it and then approached Lyra, who was still in her room.

"Lyra," I said, holding out the phone, "I want to show you how to use this. It's a burner phone, and it'll allow you to contact me directly if you need anything."

She took the phone from me, her eyes curious. I began explaining the basics. "To turn it on, just press this button here," I said, demonstrating. "When it's on, you can use the screen to text or call me. Just hit the call button or open the messages. If you need to reach me, you can either text or call."

As she listened, she nodded, absorbing the information. I showed her how to navigate the phone's simple interface and make a call or send a text. "It's straightforward. If Harper isn't available or if you feel uncomfortable for any reason, don't hesitate to reach out to me through this phone."

Lyra's eyes were focused as she practiced turning the phone on and off. "So, this device will let me contact you directly?"

"Yes," I confirmed. "It's important that you feel safe and have a way to reach me if something comes up. Just text or call if you need anything."

She looked at the phone with a thoughtful expression before giving me a reassuring smile. "Got it. Thanks, Deon."

I noticed her hand begin to vibrate, a phenomenon I had seen before but still found intriguing. Her fingers blurred slightly before the motion stopped. It was a reminder of the extraordinary circumstances she was dealing with.

"Alright," I said, giving her a final nod. "If anything comes up, you know how to reach me. I'm heading out now to meet with my team. Stay safe, and try to get comfortable."

With that, I turned and made my way toward the foyer where my men were gathered, ready to leave for the event. The anticipation of the ball was building, and I needed to stay focused on the task ahead.

As I stepped out into the night, the weight of the evening's significance pressed upon me. The ball was a key opportunity, and every detail mattered. But knowing Lyra had a way to contact me if she needed comforted me somewhat. Her adjustment to this new life was still fragile, and I had to balance my responsibilities carefully.

I joined my team, and we set off for the event. The city lights blurred past as we drove, and I mentally reviewed the plans for the evening. It was a high-stakes affair, and I was determined to navigate it with the precision and authority expected of me.

As we approached the venue, I took a deep breath, ready to face the challenges and opportunities that awaited. The night was just beginning, and the dance of power and influence was about to unfold.