Page 62 of Morally Corrupt

I know of their empire in Boston. Who lives there and doesn't find out, or mingles with their likes, even unknowingly? I'm also aware of their personal brand of illegality, which has been thriving in that area since the NYC mob busts in the 80s and 90s that made it outlawed here. And somehow, because of that, I have an inkling as to why I'm needed here.

The Agostis' presence, though? That's a mystery.

Not long after meeting Martin's guests, the butler ushers us all towards the dining room.

Again, I can tell Martin is up to something because he has made sure the seating arrangement puts me next to both Rocco Agosti and Matthew Gallagher, with Bianca next to Enzo Agosti and Quinn Gallagher.

I'm almost tempted to protest, but then I remember she may as well be the deadliest of the room and decide that she can take care of herself. The look she gives me, though, suggests she's not entirely pleased with the arrangement. Enzo's young wife is left to sit next to Martin.

We go through the first two courses making small talk until Martin turns towards me and steers the conversation towards my current career goals.

"It's quite impressive what you've achieved at such a young age, Mr. Hastings," Rocco comments.

"It hasn't been exactly easy," I reply carefully.

"I understand that there are certain topics you are very passionate about."

"Yes, that's correct," I agree, waiting to see where this is going.

"My husband is very involved with the community," Bianca interjects. "He's of the opinion that public servants should always work in tandem with their communities, not only for them." She gives me a smile that shows her pride in my work.

"That is a very commendable stance," Enzo adds, looking at my wife as if she were the dessert that is yet to come. "We, too, deeply believe in such collaborations with our public servants. In fact, over the years, we've developed close relationships that have benefited communities and neighborhoods immensely."

"What is it that you do again?" I ask, and Enzo gives Martin a long look.

"We dabble in everything. But mostly, we own a chain of restaurants and hotels downtown. We've been looking to expand, however."

"My son is correct. Ours is a family business, and we have long been involved in hospitality," Rocco says proudly.

"Where are you thinking of expanding?" This time, Bianca asks the question.

"Oh, here and there, but mostly, we were looking into Upper Manhattan."

"Gallagher here is also thinking of expanding his business, and New York has proven to be the perfect place, with Agosti's help, of course." Martin inclines his head at Rocco, and Matthew nods.

"I wish you luck. I know how hard it is to procure any type of space in Manhattan, least of all enough space for a hotel or restaurant." I'm trying to be friendly and yet distant. There must be a reason why Martin had us come here, and I'm willing to bet it has to do with the expansion plans.

"We're in the process of buying out another family-owned business, and Matthew has given us leave to use his resources."

"That's great," I say and then decide to just go for it. "On the off chance of sounding rude, I will be direct. What is it you want from me?"

"Oh," Martin laughs, almost nervously. "I told you he was smart."

"As mentioned earlier," Enzo starts, his accent thicker than before. "We, too, care about the well-being of the community and would like nothing more than to see it thrive. We've seen your track record when it comes to your policies against crime, especially against homelessness and prostitution."

"Yes, that's correct. I've been campaigning religiously to get the people off the streets. Studies have shown that places rife with homelessness and prostitution are most likely to provide a conducive environment for other crimes. My goal is for my constituents to feel safe in their homes and in their neighborhoods."

"Ahh, I knew you'd understand." Enzo claps. "It is hard, no, to get the people off the streets." I don't have to reply as he continues, "What you need is someone to do the groundwork for you."

"That's why we have NYPD," I add drily.

"And you've had NYPD for almost two hundred years. Tell me, has it helped all that much?"

"It's the way it is. I won't sit here and sing praises to the police. I know there's bureaucracy involved that simply weakens the system, but what else can be done?"

"Mr. Hastings, I trust you are familiar with the protection system in Sicily?"

"You mean mafia protection?" Oh, here we go to the root of the issue.

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