MEETING THE DARKNESS

16

The next day arrived faster than Dia had anticipated. She spent the morning preparing, mentally going over everything she knew about OCTI, the looming threat it posed, and what she would need to say. As the evening approached, a sense of dread crept in—not because she was afraid of Rhys Dexter, but because of the enormity of the conversation that awaited her.

Elle joined her at her apartment before they left, lending moral support. "You're ready for this, Dia. You've got everything you need to confront this."

"I hope so," Dia replied, her voice betraying her nerves despite the confidence she tried to project.

They arrived at the Dexter family estate just before dinner. The place was grand, almost overwhelming in its size and opulence. Dia knew the Dexter family was wealthy, but seeing their estate in person added a whole new layer to the power they wielded.

As they approached the entrance, Elle turned to Dia and squeezed her hand. "I'll wait here," she said softly. "This is your battle tonight."

Dia nodded, grateful for her friend's understanding. "Thank you, Elle."

Kai was waiting for her at the entrance, dressed casually but with his usual effortless style. He offered a comforting smile as Dia stepped out of the car. "You made it."

"I wouldn't miss it," Dia replied, taking a deep breath to steady herself.

Kai led her into the mansion, where his mother, Maya Dexter, greeted them. Maya was a striking woman, composed and warm. She hugged Kai and gave Dia a welcoming smile.

"It's lovely to finally meet you, Dia," Maya said, her voice gentle yet strong. "Kai has mentioned you several times."

"Thank you for having me," Dia replied, returning the smile, though her mind was already focused on the conversation that was to come.

After some polite conversation, Kai led Dia to the dining room. It was a large, elegantly designed space, where the weight of family tradition and power seemed to hang in the air. Dia couldn't help but wonder what tonight would bring. Soon after they sat, the doors opened, and Rhys Dexter made his entrance.

Rhys had a commanding presence, even before he spoke. His silver hair and sharp eyes immediately drew Dia's attention. Dressed in a tailored suit, he was every bit the former mafia king he was reputed to be.

Kai introduced her. "Dad, this is Dia Yadav. She's the CEO of K Group of Enterprises, and there's something she needs to talk to you about."

Rhys studied Dia carefully for a moment before extending his hand. "Miss Yadav, I've heard a lot about you. It's a pleasure."

Dia took his hand, feeling the weight of his gaze. "Thank you, Mr. Dexter. The pleasure is mine."

Once the formalities were over, everyone sat around the table. Dinner was served, but the meal was secondary to the tension in the room. Dia could feel the intensity of Rhys's scrutiny as they began to talk, but she knew this was the moment to bring everything out in the open.

Finally, Dia cleared her throat and began. "The reason I'm here tonight is because of something that's threatening not only my business but also the stability of the underworld. OCTI. I'm sure you've heard of them."

Rhys's expression darkened at the mention of OCTI. "I'm very familiar with OCTI. They've been growing in influence, and not in a way that sits well with those of us who value order."

Dia nodded, her heart pounding. "They've been targeting me for months. They want to take over my business, my connections. I know they won't stop until they've either destroyed me or bent me to their will. I came here because... I need help. I can't fight them alone."