Playing Both Sides

"Two million dollars is on the table," Jude said, looking down at the leader. "On one condition: give me the name of the person who funded this."

The crew leader, Marcus "Razor" Hu, glanced back at his men. "If word gets around that I named a client, my business is finished. I'll give it to you in writing, privately."

Jude signaled Frank Miller, who brought over a clipboard and a pen.

Razor stepped over, wrote a name across the paper, folded it twice, and handed it to Jude.

Jude opened the sheet. Written in rough block letters was the name he expected:

SILAS VANGUARD.

Jude gave a nod, slipping the paper into his pocket. It aligned with Anna's sudden delay on 14th Street; Silas had coordinated the timing and instructed his inside asset to hold back.

"You have the name, Mr. Lawson," Razor said, stepping back. "Have your team wire the $2 million, and we'll clear off the waterfront."