Chapter 42

Felix POV

I walked into the modern, silver-grey meeting room, the smell of freshly brewed coffee and polished leather wafting through the air. The cityscape sparkled seen from the tall windows, a clear indication of the competitive environment I lived in.

As I sat down at the shiny mahogany table, I was met with a series of hellos and confident handshakes. The investors, made up of experienced professionals and eager beginners, looked at me with a calculating focus that caused my stomach to tense.

"Felix, nice to finally meet you face to face," the main investor Marcus said, with his smile just as sleek as his custom suit. "We've been told wonderful things about your... entrepreneurial mindset."

I grinned, my thoughts quickly evolving with the significance of this encounter. They desired a portion of my empire, a stake in the profitable transactions and high-risk dealings that had established my reputation in the business realm.

While the conversation continued, the atmosphere in the room became more intense than the fog that frequently enveloped the city. Numbers were being tossed, with projections and forecasts, but I was aware the true game was happening beneath the surface.

These men desired a part of my essence, a portion of the relentless determination that had guided me to success. I was caught between the excitement of the task and the overwhelming anxiety of not being in charge.

"We are prepared to give you a large amount of money, Felix," Marcus said, his eyes shining like a shark's. "We have to make sure that you are ready to participate."

My heart was pounding, my thoughts racing with endless possibilities. I reclined in my chair, a grin slowly appearing on my face.

"I am prepared to play at any time," I stated, speaking in a calm and steady voice. "However, it is important to understand that I do not share my toys. Never before has this happened."

During the intense negotiations, my assistant Rachel suddenly appeared by my side, her eyes fixed on mine with a sense of urgency. "Felix, can we talk in private?" she murmured softly, keeping her voice hushed and confidential.

I raised one eyebrow and gave a quick nod. "Apologies, sirs," I stated, as I moved my chair away. "I will return shortly."

Walking behind Rachel as we left the conference room, the door softly clicked shut, and I began to feel increasingly uneasy. Rachel had a serious expression, her eyes giving off a warning signal.

"What is happening, Rachel?" I insisted with a soft voice.

"It's regarding the investors, Felix," she murmured, barely audible. "I have conducted some research.

"They're not as they appear."

I was filled with anxiety as my thoughts raced, feeling my heart sink. "What are you trying to say?"

Rachel fixed her eyes on mine, her stare unwavering.

"They are criminals involved in the drug trade, Felix. They are using their companies as a cover to clean money and market their product. And they desire a portion of your kingdom to grow their business.

Everything in my life suddenly stopped. I felt as if someone had struck me in the stomach, leaving me breathless. I thought I had experienced everything, but this... this was a completely new level of filth, and I am enjoying it.

I really appreciate the concept of collaborating with drug lords.

Rachel's eyes grew wide with astonishment.
"Felix, do not!" Are you kidding me? These individuals are lawbreakers. They are causing harm to people, continuing the cycle of addiction and pain. Are you prepared to collaborate with them to make money?

I gave a shrug, my decision clear. "Rachel, business is just business. I must not allow emotions to interfere with a great opportunity. This is a profitable chance. We are discussing millions, perhaps even billions."

Rachel's disappointment and disgust were evident as her face dropped. I believed you were superior, Felix. I believed you had morals.

I chuckled, a harsh, icy sound. "Rachel, principles don't cover the expenses." And they definitely do not help you reach the top. I plan to make this agreement and I plan to do it on a large scale. With or without your consent.

Rachel's anger was evident in her eyes, yet she refrained from arguing with me knowing my decision was final. She spun on her heel and strode off, leaving me to face the devil himself.

***

Tristan POV

Looking at the picture of Natalie and Elvis, I felt a deep pain of yearning in my heart. I hadn't seen or held them in my arms for months. The absence of them felt like a heavy burden on my chest.

Right as I was on the verge of giving in to the darkness, a sudden knock on the door shattered the quiet. My head suddenly lifted, my eyes becoming narrower. I didn't anticipate anyone's arrival.

I stood up from the sofa with deliberate, unhurried movements. I unlocked the door and saw Rachel in the hallway, her expression filled with worry.

"Tristan, I have something important to discuss with you," she mentioned, speaking in a hushed and pressing tone.

My intuition took over, my thoughts quickly running through potential options. Rachel, what is this thing/issue? "What is happening?"

Rachel paused, her eyes scanning the hallway before settling on my face. "It has to do with Felix ," she whispered quietly. "He is collaborating with drug lords, Tristan. "He's getting involved with criminals, and I'm worried about the safety of your family."

Everything fell apart in my world. Felix's act of betrayal felt like a deep wound to the heart, serving as a harsh reminder of the hidden dangers within the business world. I experienced a rush of rage, of dread, of powerlessness. What was my plan of action? What would I do to safeguard my loved ones?

Rachel looked at me with pleading eyes, her voice filled with desperation. Tristan, you must take action. You cannot simply watch idly as Felix ruins all that you have created. "He will destroy everything you've built up, your reputation, your legacy."

I let out a sigh, sensing the pressure of my duties pressing down on me. I believed I could avoid the shadows of the corporate world, but it appeared impossible to completely rid myself of them.

"I have to confess Rachel, I am not sure what actions I can take," I said, overwhelmed by a feeling of being unable to help. Felix possesses an excessive amount of power and influence. I am just a single individual facing off against a vast empire.

Rachel's expression showed strong determination. "That's precisely the reason we require a plan; A solid strategy, implemented with careful thought and precise execution. We have the ability to bring him down, but we must approach it strategically."

I arched my eyebrow, intrigued against my own will. "What type of plan?"

Rachel's gaze gleamed with resolve. "I've been collecting information, Tristan. I am aware of a few of Felix 's vulnerabilities, his secrets. Those can be used to his disadvantage.

I paused, considering the choices available to me. Taking action to protect my family and legacy from Felix 's destruction felt risky, but an inner voice urged me to do so.

"I said okay, finally, coming to a decision." "Let's make it happen. "Let's bring down Felix and bring back my legacy to its former greatness."