Carlo leaned in closer and whispered, “The truth is, the hardware store is just a front. We’re planning to import firearms and sell them. A friend mentioned that here at Romano Enterprise, you have connections that could help us source these firearms.”
Mr. Johnson raised an eyebrow, clearly skeptical of Carlo’s claim. “Is what you’re saying really true, Mr. Carlo?” he asked, seeking reassurance.
Carlo, sensing the need to build trust, replied confidently, “I understand your hesitation, Mr. Johnson. But rest assured, our intentions are genuine, and we have a solid plan in place. We’ve done our research and have the right contacts to ensure everything runs smoothly. Your expertise and network would be invaluable to us.”
Carlo continued, “I recognize that this may seem rather unforeseen; however, we have implemented every conceivable precaution to guarantee both discretion and success. We have already established a dependable logistics partner and assembled a legal team prepared to navigate any potential challenges. What are your thoughts on this?”
Mr. Johnson reclined, deeply contemplating Carlo’s assertions. “Yet, what about the inherent risks? How exactly do you intend to address them?”
Carlo acknowledged the gravity of the inquiry. “We have delineated a thorough risk management strategy. Our team possesses significant experience and we have consulted with various experts to alleviate any conceivable issues. Moreover, our operations will maintain strict confidentiality.”
Mr. Johnson deliberated for a moment before querying, “Why, then, select Romano Enterprise for this endeavor?”
Carlo responded, “Your esteemed reputation for discretion and efficiency remains unparalleled. We are confident that, because of your backing, we can seamlessly attain our objectives.”
After a brief pause, Mr. Johnson ultimately nodded-an indication of his growing trust. “Very well, let us delve deeper into this matter within a more private context,” he articulated, guiding them to a secluded room located on the upper floor of Romano Enterprise.
….
As they settled into the private room on the second floor, Mr. Johnson gestured for Carlo and Marco to take a seat. Shortly after, a server brought in tea, and the two sipped quietly, appreciating the moment.
Mr. Johnson then produced a set of documents, spreading them across the table. “These are the contact details of suppliers who can provide the items you’re interested in. I’ll vouch for you in advance, so they’ll be expecting your call,” he explained.
Carlo picked up the papers, recognizing that these were just the initial connections. However, he knew they could lead to the more significant players behind the scenes, the real sources of supply they were aiming to reach.
After wrapping up the formalities, Marco and Carlo thanked Mr. Johnson and took their leave. As they exited the building, a car pulled up in front of them. They quickly got in, ready to embark on the real mission ahead.
Carlo wasted no time in contacting the people listed in the documents. With swift and strategic moves, he and Marco quickly tracked down each location, uncovering the small fronts that eventually led them to the largest supplier of illegal arms.
The location was a secluded compound, surrounded by high walls and dense foliage, giving it an air of secrecy and exclusivity. As Marco and Carlo approached the gate, still dressed in their business attire, they walked with purpose. An armed guard stepped forward, blocking their path. “Who are you?” the guard asked, his tone alert and suspicious.
“We’re here to see Mr. Duran for a business matter,” Marco replied confidently. “We have some business to discuss with him.”
The guard scrutinized them, noting their professional appearance, which seemed to ease his vigilance slightly. “What kind of business do you have with Mr. Duran?” he inquired, still cautious.
“Hmmm…” Marco mused, reaching into his pocket. The guard’s eyes followed the movement, anticipating a bribe from the businessmen standing before him. He extended his hand, ready to accept the payment, glancing around to ensure no one else was watching, then looked back at Marco, who was smiling at him.
“Where is it?” the guard asked impatiently.
“Here it is,” Marco grinned, pulling his clenched fist from his pocket and delivering a solid punch to the guard’s face, knocking him out cold.
Carlo grinned as he watched the guard fall into a deep, unintended slumber, then proceeded through the gate with Marco. They walked confidently, spotting a luxurious villa standing prominently in the center of the compound. They knew their target was hiding there. The place seemed smaller compared to the sprawling estates they had raided with Lion and Tiger against foreign syndicates. This would be a straightforward operation for them.
As they strolled casually, nearing the main villa, a group of guards suddenly appeared, each holding an electric baton. The leader of the group stepped forward, his voice booming, “Who are you?”
Carlo, unfazed, replied smoothly, “We’re here for a transaction with Mr. Duran.”
The leader eyed them suspiciously. “Visitors are usually escorted by the gate guard. Where’s your escort?”
Marco shrugged, trying to appear nonchalant. “Oh, him? He seemed a bit tired, so we let him rest.”
The leader scanned the area and spotted the gate guard lying face down, fast asleep. His expression turned to one of suspicion and alertness. “What did you do to him?” he demanded, raising his baton as his men prepared for confrontation.
Carlo and Marco exchanged glances, then Carlo facepalmed. “Maybe we should have given the guard a blanket and pillow. These guys don’t seem too pleased,” he remarked, shaking his head.
Marco sighed, “Perhaps the mosquitoes are bothering him, and they’re upset we didn’t make him more comfortable?”
Carlo turned back to the leader with a mock apologetic smile. “We’re really sorry about your guard. We should have brought him a blanket and pillow,” he said, his tone dripping with playful sarcasm.
The leader’s face flushed with irritation, feeling mocked by their demeanor. “Are you making fun of us?” he snapped, his grip tightening on the baton.
Marco chimed in, feigning innocence. “Oh no, not at all! We just thought he looked a bit uncomfortable. You know, a good nap needs the right setup.”
Carlo nodded in agreement, adding, “Yeah, we wouldn’t want him to catch a cold out here. Maybe some mosquito repellent too?”
The leader’s frustration grew, sensing the teasing undertone in their voices. “Enough of this nonsense!” he barked, clearly agitated by their antics.
Marco smirked, leaning slightly toward Carlo. “I think we hit a nerve,” he whispered, loud enough for the leader to hear.
Carlo chuckled, “Seems like it. Maybe we should offer him a spa day next time?”
The leader’s patience was wearing thin. “You think this is a joke?” he growled, his eyes narrowing as he signaled his men to be ready.
Marco raised his hands in mock surrender. “Hey, we’re just trying to lighten the mood. No harm in a little humor, right?”
Carlo nodded, still grinning. “Exactly. We just wanted to make sure everyone was comfortable. It’s all about hospitality.”
The leader, now visibly irritated, took a step forward. “Enough! State your real business here, or you’ll regret it.”
Marco and Carlo exchanged a quick glance, their expressions still playful but with a hint of seriousness creeping in. “Alright, alright,” Marco said, “we’re here for Mr. Duran. Let’s not make this more complicated than it needs to be.”
Carlo added, “Yeah, we’re just here for a chat. No need for all the drama.”
“What kind of business? The boss is resting now. If you don’t have an appointment, you should leave,” the leader snapped, clearly irritated.
“Oh, we do have an appointment,” Carlo replied with a smile, his tone still light but carrying a hint of seriousness.
“About what?” the leader asked again, his irritation growing.
Marco gave a peculiar smile, one that hinted at their true intentions. “About his stay in prison,” he said smoothly.
Before the leader could fully process Marco’s words, Marco sprang into action, moving with precision and speed.