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“Nobody,” scoffed Charlie. “The boys got their nose out of joint about it. I think they were just big dogs from somewhere wanting to have a meal. It’s all good now. They’re out of the city.”
“Paulie said the three bodyguards that showed up were built like tanks,” said Al.
“Paulie should keep his mouth shut,” said Charlie. “They’re gone now. They didn’t see anything, they didn’t hear anything, they didn’t do anything.”
“Look, Charlie, I get that you’re saying that, but Gunter, Grant, and Carey said they were in the police station talking to folks. I don’t see that as nothing. What if they were asking questions about us?”
“I said it was nothing. It’s done, and you don’t need to worry about it.” The two men just nodded at their boss and set their glasses down on the table.
“We’ll get out of your hair. We got a long day tomorrow. I think everyone arrives around four. Our new guy and his wife will be here for dinner for you to meet and give approval. I think he’ll be a good addition,” said Mike.
“Sounds good,” said Charlie. He stood and walked toward the bedroom, waving behind him. He was dismissing them. As the two men left the condo, they got far enough away for Mike to grab Al’s arm and pull him back.
“What the fuck are you trying to do? We’ve got a good thing going on here, Al. Don’t screw it up.”
“He pisses me off,” said Al, looking back at the condo. “You ever think he’s doing all of this for him, not us, Mike? He’s the one that will become the congressman and eventually POTUS. He’s the one that will be seen as the hero. If we get caught, he’s not going to come to our rescue.”
“What are you saying?” frowned Mike.
“I’m saying watch your back. Because I’m damn sure watching mine.”
CHAPTER TWENTY-FOUR
When Miller and Addie arrived for dinner, two men were guarding the clubhouse, not allowing any of the residents inside. He gave them their names, and they were welcomed inside. Mike immediately walked toward them.
“Pierre! I’m glad you came. This must be your wife. Damn,” he grinned.
Addie did her best to smile and give a little laugh, but inside, she wanted to beat the shit out of the man.
“This is my Addie,” smirked Pierre. “Helps to have a young, energetic wife.”
“I guess it does,” smirked Mike. “Come on over to our table. Charlie Gates, our leader, is here. He’ll want to speak with you.”
Pierre took Addie’s hand, leading her to the table. She was wearing a simple black dress and heels. Nothing too expensive, nothing flashy. She wore small pearl earrings and a simple gold wedding band. Pierre was dressed in khakis, a button-down shirt, and a jacket. They needed to look serious without being pretentious or appearing as if they had money.
“Charlie? This is Pierre and his wife, Addie. They’re the ex-cops I spoke with you about,” said Mike.
“Nice to meet you,” said Charlie. “Have a seat. Maybe your wife wants to wander around.”
“His wife wants to stay,” said Addie. “In case Mike didn’t mention it, we’re both ex-cops.”
“He mentioned it,” said Charlie. “Listen, I’m about to share an unusual business model with you. If you like it, great. If you don’t, we’ve got a problem because then I’m not sure that I can trust you.”
“We’re brothers,” said Pierre. “Don’t insult me.”
“That’s what I like to hear. We all know that our retirement plans suck. We’re working our assess off, risking our lives, and we don’t get shit for retirement pay. I’m changing that for those willing to do a little extra.”
“We’re listening,” said Addie, leaning forward. He grinned at her, nodding.
“We own a number of places like this one here. We accept only wealthy residents. Residents willing to pay a premium price for a place to live and get care. Sometimes, our men are lucky enough and happy to catch their eyes. When that happens, we let nature take its course.
“Occasionally, there is a wedding that leads to the relationship becoming even more profitable. Sometimes, it’s just elaborate gifts and favors, a few luxury trips, watches, or even homes and cars. Everything we get, we reinvest into the business. Each man earns ten percent of what we take in every month.”
“Feels like sooner or later that would dry up,” said Miller, frowning at the man.
“Oh, no doubt it will. We’re investing the money for something bigger. See, I’m running for Congress in Georgia. I’m twenty points ahead of the other guy. I’ve got this,” he grinned. “In five days, I’ll be delivering a ground-breaking speech in Atlanta. Twenty thousand people will protest and riot, not because of me, just because they feel in the mood. It’s going to be a horrible scene.”
“How does that help you?” asked Addie.
