A group of people piled into a car and followed a sleek black vehicle. One of them confidently asserted that he had chosen an excellent hiding spot and guaranteed that they would not be discovered.
Ten minutes later, three cars arrived at an abandoned textile factory, built 30 to 40 years ago—the very industry that had laid the foundation for Newark's growth.
After parking in a concealed location, the group rushed into the factory, excitement bubbling over as they opened a package and spilled out stacks of cash onto the floor.
Dollar bills littered the ground, and several members of the group leaped onto the money, rolling around in exhilaration.
Meanwhile, across town, Wells was in a frenzy.
How long had it been? A month? Maybe more? Newark had seen two robberies in quick succession, and both had dealt significant blows to the police department. This was no longer just about pride; it threatened his career!
In Newark, the chief of police was appointed by the mayor, and Wells had just received a scathing call from the mayor. The first robbery at the jewelry store had been manageable, but this time—a bank was robbed.
The bank was a major political benefactor, and with multiple casualties, the stakes were high. The financial loss was more than just monetary; it affected campaign funds and the mayor's re-election prospects. It would be outrageous if the mayor's supporters didn't express their anger.
Wells was under fire, facing scrutiny about his ability to maintain safety and order. The statistics on local crime, shootings, and fatalities would certainly impact re-election efforts.
Sean, aware of the situation, asked Wells directly, "What happened?"
Wells explained, "It's obvious this was an outside job. The police are really struggling."
"How bad is it?" Sean inquired, his tone sympathetic.
"It's serious! We need to find these guys!" Wells replied urgently.
Sean chuckled lightly, "Look, I'm just a businessman. I have no responsibility or obligation to assist."
"Please, just help me out!" Wells implored, taking a deep breath.
"I'm happy to help maintain order, but I need to clarify my position. Last time, when X Security assisted the police, there was a lot of backlash questioning our authority. I can't have that happen again," Sean replied calmly.
Wells fell silent for a moment. Sean had previously expressed a desire for some law enforcement power, but Wells had always brushed him off. Now, it was clear that Sean was negotiating.
"Wells, you know that enforcement power is strictly for the police," he said, his tone growing frustrated.
"Then what's the name of your security company? We need to clarify that!" Sean continued.
"What do you want from me?" Wells shouted, clearly agitated.
"It's not about wanting something, Wells. We're friends, and I want to help, but legality matters. I can't face lawsuits over this. That would be absurd!" Sean retorted, glaring at Bill, who was trying to suppress laughter. He sighed, "I have to be cautious."
"Okay, I get it. So, what do you propose to avoid issues?" Wells grumbled, shaking his head at Sean's antics.
"My lawyers tell me that in jurisdictions with maritime law, it's legitimate for citizens to form auxiliary police to assist regular law enforcement. As a responsible Newark native, I'm willing to help uphold public safety," Sean declared seriously. "We'd even be willing to serve without pay, risking our lives if necessary!"
Wells paused, knowing that Newark already had auxiliary police due to limited government funding. The shortage of officers was a nationwide issue. While these auxiliary forces theoretically operated independently of the police, their power ultimately remained under police control.
"But auxiliary police can't use lethal weapons!" Wells protested.
"Not unless the police are involved in the situation," Sean emphasized. "You can trust me; we're on the same side. If you run for mayor, I'll fully support you. You know I mean that."
"That's true," Wells conceded, realizing Sean's ambitions extended beyond Newark.
"Alright, remember what you've said. I'll recruit more auxiliary officers, and I'll be waiting for your news," Wells said before hanging up. He sat in silence for a while, pondering his future aspirations.
On the other end, Sean pumped his fist in triumph. The deal was sealed!
Did anyone really think this was just about boosting his security company's profile?
The robbers were on the first floor, the veterinarian was on the second, Bill and his team occupied the fifth, while Wells was on the eighth floor—each playing their part in the unfolding drama.
"Did the guy agree?" Bill and Jonas leaned in, eager for news.
Sean smiled and nodded.
"Haha! I'm going to be an auxiliary police officer! Just wait until I confront Dart's crew with a gun!" Jonas shouted excitedly.
Sean shot him a look of disdain. "You? A cop? With your background? Not a chance!"
"Hey, auxiliary police require no criminal record and no history with drugs, and I'm clean!" Jonas protested.
"Everyone knows you're the head of the Jonas family. There's no way Wells would approve your application," Bill chimed in, smirking.
Frustrated, Jonas shot Bill a glare and raised his middle finger. "So my dream of being a 'black cop' is shattered, huh? Great!"
Sean chuckled at the banter but remained focused on the bigger picture. They were all stepping into a world that blurred the lines between legality and chaos, where ambition could lead to unexpected alliances and dangerous outcomes.
As they continued to joke and strategize, Sean couldn't shake the feeling that this was just the beginning. The dynamics of power in Newark were shifting, and he intended to be at the center of it all. With Wells' support, he could carve out a new role for himself—one that combined business with a semblance of authority in the city's unfolding drama.
The stakes were high, but so were the rewards. And as they planned their next moves, Sean felt a rush of excitement. In this game, he was not just a player; he was aiming to be a leader. The balance of power was about to change, and he was ready to seize the opportunity.