As tension etched Jordan’s features.
Jagoan, who had maintained a quiet vigil, instantly discerned the growing rumble of a motorcycle engine drawing nearer. It was heading their way.
In that charged moment, Hogan grasped the gravity of Jordan’s potential entanglement.
His voice turned stern as he demanded, “Jordan, lay it bare. Who have you crossed?”
Conceding that the truth could no longer be masked, Jordan, resigned, began, “Uncle Hogan, these folks here belong to a fresh gang making waves in New York…”
Hogan interjected, “Debt collectors, are they?”
claim to Chinatown two days past. Now they’re squeezing folks for protection money, three grand a month. If you don’t pay
been run by Chinese syndicates? The fee’s been a
ceded it to them last week after a fierce showdown and heavy losses. Big Vigo has thrown in the
caught
with this new gang? It’s only been a month since they’ve started yapping about three grand.
dawn till dusk in these stores, paying rent and working under the table since we lack legal status to foot the bills. You’re overseeing it all and
“Who’s behind this new
of Latinos from Brooklyn and downtown. Word is, they’re backed by Italians. The Italians are slowly fading into the background, pulling the strings but keeping out of the fray.
wounds on your face?” Hogan
sum, so they
the police?” Hogan’s tone carried a mix of anger and
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