Secluded and private, the lakeside cabin had offered the four bosses exactly what they needed to get a deal struck on guns, narcotics and some side-businesses. It had been a long but productive two hours with very little friction. He usually found himself playing the role of diplomat in these conversations, but Hector, Luka and Romero had all come to the table ready to strengthen ties and expand their businesses while building better alliances. Movement in the trees drew his attention. He spotted Danny along the perimeter and then one of Hector’s men about twenty yards away. They had the area locked down tight, but Nikolai didn’t expect any trouble. “It’s beautiful out here.” Luka emerged from the house and joined him at the rail. The young boss pulled a pack of smokes from a pocket and offered him one. Nikolai shook his head. “I don’t smoke.” Luka smiled knowingly before lighting up and taking that first long drag. “How is your wife?” “She’s very well.” Nikolai watched him enjoy the cigarette without envy.
