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I look to the door to find another African American lad. He’s a few shades lighter than Marlow. He’s a fit lad and dressed sharp. His expensive shoes shine and his clothing looks to be tailor-made.

Marlow sighs, rolls his eyes, and folds his arms across his chest. “You wanted to know the other horsemen by face. Now you know two,” Marlow mumbles.

“You motherfucker,” the guy bites out.

“Sit down, Dayton,” Marlow replies.

“Please, Mr. Hughes, do have a seat,” LaSalle says.

Hughes takes off his long coat and tosses it over his forearm before he ambles closer to the table. He looks Marlow over then glances at me. I remain expressionless.

“Before the main point is lost, why should I offer the McGowans anything? What does that do for me?”

“We’re taking a page out of yer books,” Logan replies.

“We’re aware that you require your business partners to become liable by association in one way or another. This will serve the same purpose,” LaSalle adds.

“The shipping contracts are of mutual interest. LaSalle and I know Ronan is the man for the job when it comes to a reliable business partner.”

Marlow looks to me with a hard glare as if I set this all up. I had no idea this is what the lads were up to. I guess it’s no secret I’ve wanted those contracts.

“Unfortunately, those contracts aren’t mine to give. Philips owns the fleet. He hasn’t brought that venture into the fold yet.”

“Yes, Philips. He hasn’t been easy to get a sit-down with. Not even through Mairettie Industries,” LaSalle says.

“We have talked about this alliance agreement in the past. I’m assuming this is what you two are talking about,” Hughes says. “The cost of entry.”

“It is.”

“I’m also assuming I’m here because you have a request of me. What is it?”

“I need you to keep doing what you’re doing. Your political involvement will benefit us all when the time comes. I will help to continue to make sure doors open for you,” LaSalle replies.

Hughes snorts. “That wouldn’t be a problem if it weren’t the source of contention between me and my business associates.”

“We don’t have a problem with you moving deeper into the political arena. The problem is with the individuals you’re choosing to align with to do so.”

LaSalle tilts his head to the side as he looks at Hughes. “I have to agree. You will need to be more selective in the connections you permit. I have a list of individuals who will benefit your goals and ours.”

“If I didn’t believe in the cause, I would get up and leave. What do I look like, allowing your young ass to tell me who I should engage with?”

“You need to listen to someone. You complain about your boy not listening to you when you’re only trying to do what’s best for him. I wonder where he gets that from.”

“Marlow, you and I will have words when we leave here. This is not the time,” Hughes bites out.

Marlow snorts. “As I said, I can’t hand over the contracts. However, I will place you and Philips in the same room for the conversation to be had. The Alliance has piqued my interest. We’ll talk again.”

“I need some time to think things over,” Hughes says. “I’ll get back to you.”

“In that case, we’ll be in touch,” LaSalle says and stands.

CHAPTER1

You’re Needed

Ronan

Ten years later …