THE WIDE MARBLE LOBBY of Dreams Inc gleamed under soft recessed lighting.

Two men in tailored corporate suits clutched leather briefcases as they perched on opposite ends of the waiting area, stealing furtive glances at one another over steaming porcelain teacups, their bodies angled deliberately away from each other.

The first man's teacup clattered against its saucer as he abruptly stood, his jaw clenched. He strode toward the reception desk, his Italian leather shoes clicking against the ...