Chapter 11 - The Takedown of the Old Guard
By noon, the news had shattered every media outlet in the state.
Headlines screamed across television screens and newspapers: STATE SENATOR
MARCUS STERLING ARRESTED IN MASSIVE CARTEL CORRUPTION STING FALCONE SHIPPING
EMPIRE CLEARED OF ALL CONTRABAND CHARGES ISABELLA STERLING AND VINCENT MORETTI
INDICTED FOR CONSPIRACY AND TREASON
In the grand ballroom of the Coral Gables estate, Lorenzo held a mandatory
meeting of every captain, soldier, and associate in the Falcone organization.
Over one hundred hardened men stood in disciplined rows beneath the crystal
chandeliers.
Lorenzo stood on the raised dais at the front of the room, dressed in a sharp,
three-piece midnight-blue custom suit.
"Last night, treason tried to take root in this house," Lorenzo declared, his
voice cutting through the hall with absolute authority. "Vincent Moretti forgot
his oath. Senator Sterling forgot his place. Both are currently sitting in
federal holding cells, where they will spend the remainder of their lives."
The men nodded in silent, respectful agreement.
"From this day forward, the Falcone family changes," Lorenzo continued. "We are
fully transitioning our operations into legitimate international logistics, port
security, and real estate development. The old ways of street extortion and
cartel alliances are dead. Anyone who disagrees is free to walk out that door
right now—with a severance check and zero territory."
Not a single man moved.
"Good," Lorenzo said. "Now, there is one more matter of business."
He turned toward the grand side entrance of the ballroom.
"For two years, certain members of this organization believed they could treat
the staff of this estate with disrespect. That ends today."
Lorenzo signaled to Marco.
The double doors opened.
May you like
Beatrice stepped into the ballroom.
A collective gasp rippled through the room.
