Old Mike had been part of the Newark police force for over 30 years, and during that time, he had witnessed the rise of the Salamanca family. It was hard to believe he didn't have some understanding of their operations.
From what I gather, the Salamanca family's products come from the Pan-drug Group in Mexico. Above them looms a drug lord known as 'Eladio', demanding that Salamanca pay him 30% of their profits. It's a strict rule: if you take down Salamanca, you disrupt this drug channel and significantly diminish their income. So, the threat is not just from Salamanca, but also from the Mexican drug cartel.
"Damn it!" Sean muttered, pursing his lips as he gazed up at the sky. After a moment, he added, "Isn't Salamanca Spanish?"
"Not exactly," Old Mike replied. "They identify as Hispanics or Latinos. Most of Mexico and South America—except Brazil, where Portuguese is the official language—speak Spanish. Their ancestors came from Spain during the Age of Discovery, so they refer to themselves as Hispanic or Latino rather than just Mexican."
Sean clenched his jaw, not out of fear of the Mexican drug lords, but because the situation was incredibly complicated.
He took a deep gulp of his coffee and sighed. "If the Salamanca family shows up in Newark, you'll let me know, right?"
Old Mike considered for a moment. "I'll do my best, but it'll cost money."
"I'll ask Bill to handle it," Sean nodded. "Now, let's go greet Chief Wells."
After standing up, Sean turned and left.
Tuesday, October 4th, Golf Course
Sean had Bill drive around the parking lot until they spotted Wells' car, then directed him to park beside it.
Once inside the golf course, Sean applied for a membership and paid a $50,000 fee. Golfing was a favored pastime among politicians and the wealthy in the U.S., and an empty golf course provided an ideal setting for private discussions.
Arriving a bit early, Sean, who didn't know how to play golf, arranged for a coach to help him since he planned to play more often.
When he saw a stunning coach with chestnut hair and a sleek black-and-white sports outfit, he immediately rated the course service much higher. She was tall, with legs that seemed to go on forever.
As she approached, Sean couldn't help but smile wryly. "I don't think I'll be able to learn golf."
"Why not?" she asked, bending slightly in front of him. Her sparkling blue eyes were captivating.
"It's your charm," Sean replied, his voice low and magnetic. "You've filled my mind, making it hard to focus on anything else."
She laughed softly, her eyes brightening. "Don't say that; I might take you seriously."
"Of course it's true. If you don't believe me, why don't you try?" He gently took her hand and pulled her onto his lap.
Leaning close, he whispered in her ear, "Can you feel it? This is all because of you."
As she felt his strong chest, a blush crept onto her face, and she seemed momentarily entranced.
Bill, standing nearby, watched the scene with a mix of admiration and envy. "Is this line really that effective?"
With a playful smirk, he thought about how he needed to return to the bar to practice his own skills at flirting.
After a brief, passionate kiss, the moment was interrupted when Bill cleared his throat. "As much as I hate to interrupt, we should keep an eye on the time," he said, glancing at his watch.
"Damn it, Bill, you're such a buzzkill," Sean grumbled. It had been over a month since he arrived in this era, and he was still single, occasionally catching up with Jennifer Lopez for casual outings but nothing serious.
It wasn't that he was celibate; he simply hadn't met anyone he truly wanted to pursue. Unlike Bill and others who seemed ready to chase any woman, he sought something deeper.
"Okay, Catherine," he said, his gaze lingering on her figure. "May I have the honor of taking you to dinner tonight?"
"Of course," she replied, puffing out her chest with a smile as she stood up.
As she walked ahead, Sean couldn't help but admire her confident stride.
"Sean," Bill said, nudging him as they walked. "You're not much better than the rest of us when it comes to checking out women."
"We're different," Sean retorted. "I'm just trying to remember my coach's name."
Bill rolled his eyes, bemused at Sean's serious tone.
The two men spent some time on the golf course until Chief Wells finally arrived. When the coast was clear they approached him.
Sean took a swing and then walked over with a smile, extending his hand. "Director Wells, it's a pleasure to meet you. I'm Sean, Sean K. Rockefeller."
"Sean K. Rockefeller," Wells repeated, shaking his hand firmly. "You're quite young, Mr. Sean."
Sean grinned. "I suppose that might work to my advantage."
Wells chuckled. "Perhaps it will. Now, what brings you here today?"
Sean gestured towards a nearby bench, suggesting they sit. "I wanted to discuss a matter of mutual interest, something that could benefit both of us."
Wells nodded, intrigued. "Go on."
Sean leaned forward, lowering his voice. "I'm aware of certain activities within Newark that need... careful handling. I believe with your support; we can address these issues effectively."
Wells raised an eyebrow. "And what exactly are you proposing?"
"Collaboration," Sean replied smoothly. "I have resources and connections that could complement your efforts. Together, we can bring about significant change."
Wells considered this for a moment before speaking. "It sounds like you're suggesting a partnership."
"Exactly," Sean confirmed. "A partnership that ensures both of us come out on top."
Wells nodded slowly, a smile spreading across his face. "I think we can work something out."
As they shook hands, sealing their tentative agreement, Sean felt a surge of satisfaction. This was just the beginning of a new chapter in Newark's intricate power game.
Later that evening, Sean met Catherine for dinner at an upscale restaurant. The atmosphere was intimate, with dim lighting and soft music playing in the background.
"You look stunning," Sean complimented as Catherine joined him at the table.
"Thank you," she replied with a smile. "This place is beautiful."
"I thought you'd like it," Sean said, pouring them both a glass of wine. "To new beginnings."
"To new beginnings," Catherine echoed, clinking her glass against his.
Throughout the meal, they shared stories and laughter, the connection between them growing stronger with each passing moment. By the time dessert arrived, Sean knew he had found someone special.
As they left the restaurant, Catherine linked her arm through Sean's. "I had a wonderful time tonight."
"Me too," Sean agreed, his eyes twinkling. "Let's do this again soon."
"I'd like that," Catherine said warmly.
As they parted ways, Sean felt a sense of anticipation for what the future held. With allies like Wells and blossoming relationships like the one with Catherine, he was ready to take on whatever challenges came his way.
The next day, Sean was back in his office, reflecting on the events of the previous day. He knew that navigating the complexities of Newark's underworld required both strategic alliances and personal strength. With Old Mike providing information, Bill handling logistics, and the support of influential figures like Wells, he felt more prepared than ever.
As he sipped his coffee, Sean's phone buzzed with a new message. It was from Catherine, thanking him for the wonderful evening and expressing her excitement for their next date. Sean smiled, texting back a quick reply before turning his attention to the day's tasks.
There was much to be done, but with determination and a growing network of allies, Sean was confident in his ability to make a lasting impact. The game was on, and he was ready to play.