A modern man in 1930’s Americas

The Genesis of a School and the Shadows of Power

The community raised $2.68 million, though every family in District 22 seemed to be struggling. To ensure transparency, a school committee was formed to monitor the funds.

Yanyan, carrying a bamboo basket filled with checks and cash, felt the weight of responsibility. In District 22, where governance was lax, the area had become a small independent realm under the leadership of Charlie Lee. Security was paramount, with street patrol teams ensuring peace daily.

"It will take some time to finalize the college's location. Here's a check for 1 million yuan," Charlie said, handing it to the committee. "Since the school committee is established, you should manage the funds. Additionally, I own a 22,000-square-foot house. It can serve as a temporary classroom during the initial stages. The number of school buses can be discussed among yourselves."

Charlie's decision to empower the committee demonstrated his belief in collective effort. "If the committee performs well, there's no reason for the school board to dissolve it in the future," he added.

Yanyan, though inexperienced, was eager. "Uncle Li, do you have any plans for the teaching staff?" she asked.

Charlie smiled as he replied, "That will be decided soon."

Excited by the progress, Yanyan ran off with her bamboo basket to inform the committee. She believed every family had the right to know about each development, hoping that involvement would transform community participation into a sense of shared identity.

"She's got potential," Charlie remarked with a smile.

Just then, the phone in the room rang. Lao Huang answered it briefly before turning to Charlie. "Boss, Mr. Nuki's men are arriving tonight."

Charlie, tapping his fingers on the table, nodded. "Bring the Monk in," he instructed.

Lao Huang left, and shortly after, the Monk entered. Charlie gave him his orders. "Nuki's men will dock at Alfred Park tonight, then head to the Gold Coast. Take a few trusted men and make sure to inform Grant. We don't need any unnecessary trouble with the patrols."

The Monk nodded. "Understood, boss."

As darkness descended, two cars departed for the Gold Coast, stopping at Dearborn Street. "I mentioned this spot earlier today, and now I'm meeting someone here tonight," Charlie mused aloud. "It seems fate has a sense of humor."

"I've already informed Paul about Chicago," the Monk reported, referring to a rival who had overstepped. "He'll teach those guys a lesson they won't forget."

"And the kid who started this?" Charlie asked.

"Grant's men should have delivered his picture to Paul by now," the Monk confirmed.

Charlie nodded grimly. "Kids who show disregard for human life need to learn the consequences."

"Boss, the boat's in sight," the Monk said, peering through binoculars. An ordinary fishing boat approached, its red flag fluttering and black smoke billowing from its chimney.

"Let's go," Charlie said. Rather than allowing the boat to dock, he and the Monk paddled out in a small boat to meet it.

"Charlie!" came a warm greeting as they climbed aboard.

"Nuki," Charlie replied, surprised. "Why are you here in person?"

"Surprise!" Nuki exclaimed, arms wide open.

Charlie forced a smile, though suspicion gnawed at him. This isn't a casual visit. If this old fox doesn't have a hidden agenda, I'll eat my hat.

Nuki gestured toward the cabin. "The person you're looking for is inside. Go ahead, my friend. You've been patient long enough."

With skepticism, Charlie stepped into the cabin and found an older man with white hair and a large belly. He was bound and gagged, his expensive suit stained with sweat.

"Johnny, this isn't the way I wanted us to meet," Charlie said with mock regret, removing the gag.

"Charlie, I swear, it wasn't me!" Johnny sputtered, desperate to explain.

"But Nuki brought you to me," Charlie replied coolly, casting a sharp glance at Nuki. "So, someone's lying."

"Charlie, I showed you the letters and recordings," Nuki interjected. "Why don't you compare them with his notes?"

"It's a setup!" Johnny yelled, his voice trembling. "They're afraid you'll start a war and are using me as a scapegoat!"

Nuki didn't give him a chance to finish, silencing Johnny with a brutal kick to the face. Blood splattered as Johnny groaned in agony, his protests cut short.

Charlie remained impassive, leaning back in his chair. These games of betrayal are tiresome, he thought.

"Monk," Charlie called, signaling his trusted man. Within moments, a bloodstained sack was dragged from the cabin, tightly wrapped with iron wire and sandbags.

The splash of the sack hitting the icy lake water broke the tense silence. One of Charlie's men dove in to ensure the job was done, emerging minutes later with a nod of confirmation.

Charlie exhaled. No loose ends. Trouble eliminated before it spreads.

As the fishing boat returned to shore, Charlie turned his attention back to Nuki. "That's where I'm building the school," he said, pointing to a well-lit three-story courtyard. "What do you think?"

"It's impressive," Nuki replied, though his expression was clouded. "Your ambitions never fail to amaze me."

"Coming from you, the godfather of America, that's high praise," Charlie joked.

Nuki leaned back, his weariness showing. "Charlie, I'm tired. The betrayals, the violence, the constant fight for power—it's all garbage."

Charlie raised an eyebrow. "Are you saying you want out?"

Nuki's sudden introspection caught Charlie off guard. For a man like Nuki, whose life revolved around power, the idea of retirement seemed laughable.

"I'm serious, Charlie," Nuki said quietly. "I want to live a peaceful life. No more politics, no more bloodshed."

"What's changed?" Charlie asked, still skeptical.

Nuki hesitated before leaning closer and whispering, "I have a child."

Charlie's surprise turned to amusement. "A child? That's your reason?"

"Yes," Nuki replied earnestly. "Isn't that enough?"

"It's a reason," Charlie acknowledged. "But you know you can't just walk away. Not now. Not after everything."

Nuki sighed heavily. "I know. That's what makes this so exhausting. I stepped too deep into this world, and now I can't leave."

Charlie nodded, understanding the burden of leadership all too well. "Maybe you need better protection," he suggested. "I can offer you my best men—four of them—for $800 a week."

Nuki raised an eyebrow. "That's not your usual rate."

"True," Charlie admitted with a grin. "But these aren't just any men. They'll make sure nothing happens to you or your family. Not even a scratch."

Nuki leaned back, considering the offer. He knew Charlie was right. In their world, trust was a luxury few could afford, and protection was worth every penny.

As the car rolled past the brightly lit courtyard, Nuki's mind wandered. He longed for the peace he spoke of, but deep down, he knew it was a fantasy. In their world, escape wasn't an option. Power, once gained, was a shackle that couldn't be broken.

Charlie, watching Nuki's conflicted expression, couldn't help but think, This life doesn't let go. You either control it, or it consumes you.