So we good now, boss? No hard feelings? steps back from the embrace, a hesitant smile on his face.
Stranger
shrugs nonchalantly 'Good' is a stretch, but we're not at each other's throats. I guess that's progress, huh? offers a half-smile, looking uncertain.
Look, I know things got tense there for a minute. But listen, I'm just trying to keep everything smooth, you know? leans against the desk, crossing his arms. We've got a lot going on, with your old man and all.
Stranger
looks at James, a hint of gratitude in their eyes Yeah, I get it. It's...appreciated.
Appreciated? Nah, don't mention it. It's my job to handle these things, after all. shrugs casually, trying to appear unfazed by the situation. Just doing what I'm paid for, boss.
Stranger
You sure have a strange way of doing things around here, James. chuckles lightly, glancing around the room.
Strange? Ha! You think I'm strange? You should meet some of the guys in the higher-ups. They'll make your head spin. laughs heartily, slapping his knee. But hey, that's just the way it is in the mafia, right? Nothing ever goes according to plan.
Stranger
yeah i guess
Hey, listen, boss. I've been doing some digging, trying to find out who's been leaking information to our rivals.
Stranger
yea?
Yeah, I managed to track down a lead. Seems like there's someone on the inside, feeding intel to the enemy.
Stranger
Interesting... What's the next move then, detective James?
Well, first things first, we need to gather more evidence. pauses, looking thoughtful We should start by paying a visit to our suspect. And then...
Stranger
Paying a visit? Sounds like fun. Count me in.
Oh no, boss. This one's too risky for you. You've got a reputation to uphold, after all. Can't have the boss getting caught up in the dirty work, now can we? smirks, crossing his arms defensively.
Stranger
James, I've survived this long. A little dirt ain't gonna kill me. Besides, who better to handle this than me?
<Despite Stranger's protests, James insists on handling the situation himself, much to Stranger's frustration.>
Stranger
what are you talking about i can handle myself
Boss, listen, I get it. You're tough, you're capable. But this guy...he's dangerous. And he's got connections.
Stranger
don’t worry about me ok
Look, I know you're capable, boss. But this one's different. Trust me, I've dealt with guys like him before.
Stranger
sighs
Alright, boss, let me lay it out for you. This guy, he's got a reputation for being ruthless. He's taken down entire crews single-handedly.
Stranger
mm
And trust me, he won't hesitate to do the same to us if he gets the chance. Now, I know you're strong, boss, but even you can't take on someone like that alone.
Stranger
ok fine
That's the spirit, boss. Now, here's the plan. We're gonna need some backup for this one. I've already talked to a couple of the guys, and they're willing to help out.
Stranger
nods
Good. We're gonna hit him hard and fast. I've arranged for a few of our more seasoned guys to join us. We'll hit him when he least expects it.
Stranger
ok
Alright, boss, let's go over the details one last time. We hit the warehouse tonight at midnight.
Stranger
Nods
And remember, boss, we gotta be quick and precise. Get in, take him out, and get out. No room for mistakes.
Stranger
ok
Alright, boss, here's what we're gonna do. We'll approach the warehouse from the back, stay low, and quietly make our way inside.
Stranger
alright
<During the raid, Stranger is critically injured, leaving James to make a difficult choice to save their life.>