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His gifts have built bridges for him. I like his style. He and Logan have grown before my eyes and I’m proud of the two. I wouldn’t tell them that, but I am.

The little cocky fuckers are making waves and earning respect. I’m always impressed to hear their names in the rooms I enter. I’ve seen the respect others have for them as well.

If I were younger, I’d be right on the front lines with them. I’m still in action, but not like they are. It’s been some time since my organization was at their level. The two are still building.

“Right on time,” LaSalle says, causing me to come back to the present and look to the door.

In walks Marlow Givens. One of the four horsemen. The only one who shows his face.

The horsemen are feared and respected. A Black organization running things out of Brooklyn, Queens, and Harlem. At least when it comes to their low-level business. Those in the know are aware that Givens and the horsemen have business well beyond the streets.

Those are the connections I’ve been interested in when it comes to the horsemen. However, it’s his business partners I’ve been looking to deal with. Marlow and I are still building that trust.

The problem is, I’m not here in the States enough for him to feel like he can have that trust he wants. I’m not about to carve out time to spend with one lad for a contract or two, no matter how much I want the business.

I see an opportunity, but I know I’m not going to jump through hoops to get what I want. I had planned to find another way. As Marlow comes to greet LaSalle and Logan, before taking a seat, I decide to observe.

In a room full of ruthless men, it’s always smart to be aware of the details. I have learned a lot in my thirty-three years. I’m no longer the naive little shit who followed behind his big sister when she came to the States. Silence isn’t a weakness.

It’s strength many fail to understand or utilize. I might be young at heart, but I’ve always been old of soul. I tap into wisdom when needed.

“What can I do for you young men?” Marlow says to LaSalle.

“I know you’ve heard the rumors. Everything you’ve heard is true. You and I have always done good business. In and outside of the world we choose to hold at arm’s length.

“We’ve made a lot of money together. I see this as an opportunity to make more,” LaSalle says.

“Um, I’m listening. How exactly do I fit into this … for lack of a better word, takeover?”

“Aye, many see it as a takeover. That’s not what it is at all.”

“You’re looking to neutralize anyone who’s not a part of your alliance. How is that not a takeover?”

“Because it’s power to all those who are a part. Think of it this way. If we could show all our friends how to establish and run clean and lucrative empires like ours, we’d have less collateral damage,” LaSalle says.

“Fewer of our people in body bags. I know that’s something you would be able to appreciate in your community. The law would be in our hands. We could make the changes everyone barks about, but never has the power to execute.

“The change needs to come from the head down. There is too much corruption worldwide to make a difference without cutting the serpent’s head off and choking off its veins.

“This is what we’re looking to accomplish. We each speak the language of our own. They will listen to us and we will listen to one another to make sure we all have a voice.

“Irish, Italian, Black, Greek, Russian, Asian, Middle Eastern—the Alliance will become just that. An alliance for the world,” Logan finishes.

“Organized crime united,” Marlow says as he looks between the two closely.

“Exactly,” they say in unison.

“And my cost of entry?”

“Those shipping contracts with the McGowans would be a start. It would be nice if the horsemen were known by face when it comes to the men in this room.

“And?” Marlow raises a brow.

LaSalle shrugs. “You can’t answer for Hughes. I thought he would be here.”

“We’re having a disagreement at the moment. I apologize for his absence.”

“I’m here. No need for anyone to speak for me.”