Chapter 72: Summit & Wolfe
Two days before landing in New York, Parker had already done his homework. The moment his plan to build a $100 billion real estate portfolio became more than just an idea, he'd started making moves.
He'd called Summit & Wolfe, knowing they weren't the kind of firm you just walked into without notice.
The initial call had been straightforward but assertive—Parker's style. Enjoy exclusive adventures from empire
"Hello, this is Parker Black. I'm looking to secure a team for ongoing real estate ventures. High-level stuff. What's your availability for a meeting this week?"
The voice on the other end had been polite but cautious—this wasn't their first rodeo. "Mr. Black, we typically require more information before setting up a consultation. Can you clarify the scope of your needs?"
Parker didn't hesitate. "I'm looking to build a portfolio worth billions. I need a team that can handle contracts, zoning, and litigation, with one point of contact managing it all. Confidentiality is non-negotiable."
There had been a brief pause, she was definitely surprised by his request since it meant she was dealing with real deal now, she had to whisper to higher-ups first. "I see," the representative had said, their tone shifting ever so slightly.
Money talked, and Parker was practically shouting. "We can set something up for two days from now. You'll be meeting with one of our senior partners."
"Perfect. See you then," Parker replied before ending the call.
Behind the scenes, the firm had taken his inquiry seriously. Clients with that level of confidence—and cash—didn't come around every day. They had bumped his appointment to a prime slot, ensuring he wouldn't be meeting just anyone but the managing partner. Parker wasn't your usual client not with the mention of billions!
****
Parker knew he needed more than just a lawyer—he needed a whole damn team. With a $100 billion real estate portfolio in his sights, there was no way he'd trust just one person to handle all the moving parts. Contracts, zoning laws, litigation, tax strategies—he needed it all airtight. After a deep dive into the top firms, he'd decided to work with Summit & Wolfe, one of the most expensive and reputable firms in the country. Hell, they weren't just big in America; they had a global rep.
****
The car rolled to a stop outside Summit & Wolfe's Manhattan headquarters. The building stood tall and sleek, a modern fortress of glass and steel that screamed power and money. Parker stepped out, Ere one hand and his phone in the other, tapping out a quick email before tucking it into his pocket.
Inside, the lobby was all polished marble floors and massive chandeliers. The air smelled faintly of leather and freshly brewed coffee, the kind that costs $20 a cup. Parker approached the reception desk, where a woman with a sharp bob and an even sharper suit greeted him. He greeted back informing who he was.
"Oh, Mr. Black," she said, her smile professional but warm. "Welcome to Summit & Wolfe. Everything is ready for you. Please, follow me."
He nodded, "Thanks. Lead the way."
The walk to the meeting room was a short one, but the hallways were lined with abstract art pieces that probably cost more than his penthouse. The place felt like money, and Parker liked that.
The door to the meeting room opened, revealing a man in his forties. His tailored suit was flawless, his hair perfectly combed back. He stood as Parker walked in, extending a hand.
"Mr. Black," he greeted, his tone polite but curious. "I have to admit, I wasn't expecting someone quite so... young."
Parker smirked, shaking his hand firmly. "Yeah, I get that a lot. You'll get used to it."
The man chuckled, gesturing for Parker to sit. "I'm Alan Wolfe, managing partner. Let's get started."
For a brief moment, Alan entertained the idea that this was all some kind of prank—a kid playing dress-up with daddy's money. But as they began to talk, that thought quickly faded. Parker was sharp, focused, and every bit as serious as any seasoned client Alan had worked with.
****
Later...
"I need a team," Parker started, leaning back in his chair. "Not just any team. I'm talking about the best you've got. I want someone to handle contracts, someone for zoning and development, and someone to keep litigation off my back if shit hits the fan."
Alan nodded, steepling his fingers. "That's doable. But Mr. Black, this kind of service isn't cheap."
Parker raised an eyebrow, a small smile tugging at his lips. "You think I'd be here if I wanted cheap?"
Alan let out a small laugh. "Fair point. This kind of arrangement would require a dedicated team, and one attorney as your main point of contact. Everything would be streamlined through them. But for exclusivity like this, we're looking at a retainer of—"
"Doesn't matter," Parker cut in. "Whatever it costs, I'll pay it."
Alan studied him for a moment, nodding slowly. "Alright. I'll assemble a list of our top lawyers. You'll have the best team in the country, and they'll prioritize your interests exclusively."
As they hammered out the details, Parker laid down his conditions. "I need full confidentiality. Nothing about my business leaves this room or their mouth. I don't care how big your firm is—if I smell a leak, we're done."
"Understood," Alan replied. "Our firm specializes in high-profile clients. Discretion is non-negotiable."
Parker leaned forward. "I also need 24/7 availability. I don't care if it's 3 a.m. If I call, someone better answer."
Alan raised an eyebrow but didn't object. "We can accommodate that, but like it said, retainer will reflect the level of service you're requesting."
Parker waved a hand dismissively. "I'm not here to save money. I'm here to make sure my shit runs smooth."
Alan smiled faintly, impressed despite himself. "You've got yourself a deal, Mr. Black."
Alan presented a list of names, each one more impressive than the last. Parker skimmed through it, finally pointing to the top three.
"I want these guys," he said simply.
Alan nodded. "Excellent choice. You'll be working with our best team. Their combined expertise covers everything you'll need, from transactional law to international real estate."
Parker smirked, leaning back in his chair. "Perfect. Let's get the paperwork done."
The contract was thorough, outlining every service, fee, and responsibility. Alan didn't shy away from the numbers—a $2,000,000 monthly retainer for the level of exclusivity Parker demanded and given his portfolio he was looking to build.
Parker didn't blink. He signed the contract with a steady hand, sliding it back across the table.
"Welcome to Summit & Wolfe," Alan said, standing to shake his hand.
"Thanks," Parker replied, his smirk turning into a full grin. "Now, let's make some moves."
And just like that, Parker had secured not just a lawyer, but an entire legal dream team. It was expensive as hell, but for him, it was just another investment in his empire.
The second step on the journey of a thousand steps has been taken!