Chapter 74 Summary
Tony is stunned when Javon proposes a plan that would require Tony to be publicly “arrested” for the abduction of Walter Jenkins to lure Cortez into the open. Javon explains that while the arrest would be staged, it must follow every legitimate procedure, handcuffs, fingerprints, mug shots, incarceration, extradition to St. Louis, and a formal FBI news release, to make it fully believable. As the implications sink in, Tony reacts with disbelief and anger, raising concerns about jail time, financial loss, and the lasting damage such publicity could inflict on both his personal reputation and his company. Javon acknowledges the risks but insists the decision must be made quickly, warning that without Tony’s cooperation, the FBI will withdraw, leaving him and his employees vulnerable.
Struggling with the unfairness of the situation, Tony challenges Javon’s reasoning and demands to know why capturing Cortez is so critical. Javon responds candidly, describing GenaSeed as an organization linked to global corruption, violence, and extortion, and emphasizes that Cortez represents a rare opportunity to hold at least one key figure accountable. Though still conflicted, Tony agrees to consider the plan and promises to give Javon an answer by that evening. Before leaving the park, Tony agrees to take Javon to the hospital so he can personally apologize to Tony’s injured friend for the FBI’s earlier treatment.
The chapter briefly shifts to Roger Cortez, who grows uneasy after failing to hear from his brother. Choosing not to make contact, he instead speaks with Ricardo Candella in Venezuela, discussing the progress of a coercive business deal involving local farmers. Through the conversation, Cortez’s ruthless methods are laid bare as he confirms that resistance has been eliminated through intimidation, violence, and bribery, and orders increased pressure on the farmers as punishment for their initial defiance.
Back at the hospital, Tony and Javon visit Steven, who is recovering well and in good spirits. Tony prepares Steven for Javon’s presence, framing the visit as an apology rather than an interrogation. Javon offers a sincere apology for the FBI’s conduct, which Steven accepts graciously, even expressing curiosity about the ongoing GenaSeed case. As the conversation drifts dangerously close to Tony’s secret dilemma, Javon tactfully ends the visit. Tony, clearly burdened by the choice he must soon make, tells Steven he may be away for a while before leaving the hospital with Javon, the weight of the impending decision heavy between them.
