A Man Chooses; A Slave Obeys - Chapter Four: Part One

“Hey Paulie, d'you remember much that happened last night? I still can't see much.” Vinny and Paulie were sat on a bench in Arcadia enjoying the fresh air and getting a bite to eat.

“I remember a hell of a lot more than you because you was passed out on the bar for most of it!” Paulie laughed and Vinny looked visibly angry.

“Ha-fuckin'-ha Paulie. I had a lil' too much to drink alright, but seriously, what happened?” Paulie took a bite out of his club sandwich and sat back on the bench. Arcadia was quieter in the afternoon which was why Paulie often came here then.

“I spoke to a few people, had a few drinks and had a laugh. You seemed to be havin' fun too so I jus' looked after you. Nothin' much else.” Vinny took out a cigarette and lit it, taking a deep breath and blowing out a few rings of smoke.

A group of official looking men walked through the crowd towards Vinny and Paulie. Paulie tensed up but Vinny hardly noticed. As they came closer Vinny could tell they were Ryan's men. Paulie stood up and gestured to Vinny.

“What can we do you for gentlemen?” Paulie asked the man in the centre of the group. He looked to be the leader. He stepped closer and ushered for the other men to grab Vinny. Paulie stepped to get in the way but was pushed back by the leader.

“I wouldn't if I were you. Mr. Ryan wishes to speak to you, Vincent Scodalario. Alone preferably but if your friend wishes to come with us he's happy to as long as he wears these handcuffs.” Vinny looked at Paulie to say, 'Back off, I'll be fine.'

The men took Vinny away with them towards Ryan Industries.

“So what's your name then pal? And what's this all about anyways?” Vinny sarcastically asked the leader.

“My name is Augustus Rhines and I don't know what Mr. Ryan wants with you. All I know is that I am supposed to collect you and bring you to him either on your own accord or by force if necessary.” Vinny took the time to think about what it might be but couldn't think of anything. It had to be important for Ryan to show this much force, which wasn't a good sign for Vinny.

When they got to Ryan Industries Vinny was left with a security guard and was escorted through to the main office. When he arrived at the large wooden door he was ushered inside by the guard. The door creaked open and a blackened silhouette was seated behind a large oak desk. The room was immaculate. Not a speck of dust anywhere. Shelves upon shelves of books lined each wall and figures and statues littered plinths all around. Vinny was nervous. Andrew Ryan had a reputation for being ruthless and absolutely commanding. Whatever he wanted, he would have. That didn't bode well.

“So Mr. Vincent Scodalario. I hear you recently did quite well for yourself. Selling your fathers business made you quite a bit of money. Tell me, whom did you sell it to?” Andrew Ryan leant forward out of the shadows and nodded for Vinny to take a seat in front of him. The security guard followed through the door with two others behind him. Vinny sat down.

“I sold it to Frank Fontaine. He offered a generous sum that I would have been stupid to dismiss.” Vinny felt uneasy. Something was off. Ryan was known for being ruthless but he was never so indirect.

“I'm sorry to ask Mr. Ryan but, why is it that you called me in here today?” Ryan sat back in his chair. His face party covered by shadow he smiled and wrapped his knuckles on his desk.

“I'm looking for anything you might have on Frank Fontaine.” The bodyguards slowly edged forward and grabbed hold of Vinny's wrists. He writhed and fought but couldn't break free. Ryan walked from behind his desk and nodded to the head guard. The thick door was sealed shut.

“Now, are you going to answer my questions willingly, or do I have to get cruel and unusual?” He flashed a menacing grin as Vinny struggled harder.