Over the next few weeks, the university was abuzz with the news about the disciplinary hearing. The slap was the talk of the campus, and Michael's audacity became a symbol of resistance against the administration's high-handedness. Vice Dean Oakley, stung by the public humiliation, was desperate to regain his authority. He was eager to conclude the re-investigation and prove that the disciplinary committee was right all along. Meanwhile, Michael, James, and Arthur doubled their efforts. They were aware that the reopened investigation could be influenced by the Vice Dean's eagerness to prove them wrong. In the confines of Arthur's office, Michael and James huddled over pieces of evidence, their faces illuminated by the glow of the laptop screen. "Michael, look at this," James pointed towards a code snippet on the screen. "This is a unique piece of code that I would never use. It's too risky and leaves a trace."Michael's eyes widened in realization, "So whoever did this wanted to f
130Michael stood there, stunned by the sudden confrontation. The construction site had fallen into an eerie silence as everyone watched the drama unfold. He cursed himself inwardly for not trusting his instincts when he first found the landowner suspicious.Summoning his courage, Michael raised his voice and commanded, "Everyone back to work!" His words lacked their usual confidence, but he couldn't let this setback paralyze their progress.As the construction crew reluctantly resumed their tasks, Michael reached for his phone and dialed the landowner's number. After a few rings, the owner answered, his voice devoid of emotion, "Hello?""It's Mr. Ventura," Michael began, trying to keep his voice steady. "We need to discuss the land we purchased from you."The owner's response was cautious, "What can I do for you, Mr. Ventura?""There's been a complication," Michael explained urgently. "A man showed up today and tried to stop the construction. He claims the land was sold to a Mafia-ba
131In a dimly lit room across town, the mafia was hatching a devious plan for revenge."We need to teach this Ventura guy a lesson," the wiry man said, a malicious smile playing on his lips. "Let's sabotage his supply chain. Disrupt the delivery of construction materials to the port. That'll slow him down."Another member of the group chuckled darkly. "And let's not forget the anonymous threats. We'll keep bombarding him and his crew with messages, making them feel like they're constantly being watched."A third man, with a cruel glint in his eyes, added, "We'll make sure his workers are too terrified to set foot on that site. Break their spirit, and the project will crumble."The room filled with sinister laughter as they reveled in their twisted plot.The next few days were a whirlwind. Threats and anonymous calls started pouring in, targeting not just Michael but his entire construction crew. Workers were harassed, their families threatened, and their lives turned into a living nig
132The tension in the air was palpable as Michael stared down the barrels of the guns pointed at him. His mind raced, searching for a way out of this dangerous situation. Suddenly, a mischievous smile played on his lips as an idea formed in his mind."Alright, alright," Michael said, raising his hands in mock surrender. "You win. I'll stop the construction. Just don't shoot!"Michael looked at the men, their faces twisted into ugly snarls, guns shaking slightly in their hands. But instead of fear, he felt a strange sense of amusement.The men exchanged satisfied glances, believing they had finally broken Michael's spirit. But little did they know, he had a trick up his sleeve.As they approached cautiously, guns still trained on him, Michael took a step back, positioning himself strategically. "But before we go any further," he continued, his voice dripping with false compliance, "I have a small request."The men exchanged puzzled glances but cautiously nodded for him to continue."Co
133 "The tension in the courtroom was palpable as the case unfolded. The mafia's lawyer, Mr. Russo, stood up, his voice dripping with contempt. "Your honor, my clients have been subjected to unimaginable torment at the hands of this troublemaker, Mr. Michael Ventura. He has vandalized their property, harassed their workers, and even physically assaulted them."Michael's lawyer, Mr. Thompson, rose to his feet, a determined look on his face. "Your honor, these accusations are nothing more than desperate attempts to vilify my client. Mr. Ventura has done nothing but follow the proper legal procedures in his construction project. If there have been damages, it is solely due to the mafia's interference and subsequent sabotage."But then, the mafia lawyer did something unexpected. "Your honor," he said, pulling out a USB drive, "I have video evidence of Mr. Ventura threatening me. Would you like me to play it for the courtroom?"Judge Johnson furrowed his brow, considering the arguments pre
Three months later,Michael had successfully launched his company, TecnoVen, which specialized in manufacturing electronic components and devices. Excited to secure contracts for his new venture, he began visiting various companies. One of his stops was at an intercity transportation company, where he hoped to present his innovative products to the CEO.As he entered, he approached the receptionist, who greeted him with a warm smile. "Good morning! How can I assist you today?" She said."Good morning. I would like to meet with the CEO to discuss some innovative solutions that my company, TecnoVen, can offer to improve their services." He said."Of course, let me check if the head of the direction is available. Please have a seat."The receptionist picked up the phone and dialed a number, speaking to someone on the other end. After a brief conversation, she hung up and turned to Michael."The head of the direction will see you now. Please follow me."Michael followed the receptionist t
"Mr. Collins, it’s a pleasure to meet you. I’m Michael Ventura, the CEO of TecnoVen,” Michael said, his voice steady despite his inner turmoil.Collins' eyes narrowed, and he scoffed, "Ah, the young dreamer. I remember you. You had big ideas but no substance. What do you want now?”Michael held his gaze, "I'm here to discuss potential collaboration opportunities that could benefit your company greatly.""Collaborations? With you? You must be joking," Collins laughed cruelly. "I don't see how a failed business owner can help us."Michael frowned but didn’t lose his temper. "I believe in my products and their potential. I only ask for a fair chance to present them."Collins sneered, "We don't have time for chances here, boy," and with a dismissive wave of his hand, he added, "You may leave now. Don't waste our time anymore."A few days later, Michael was in his office when his business partner, Robert, barged in excitedly, "Michael, you won’t believe this. Traveline, the transportation
"Look, Martha," Mr. Collins stuttered, his face pale, "This must be some sort of mistake."Mrs. Collins' face mirrored her husband's shock as she stammered, "This...this can't be right."Robert interjected smoothly, "I assure you, there's no mistake. Mr. Ventura here is indeed our CEO."Mr. Collins' face reddened, "I won't work with him. Martha, we're leaving."Mrs. Collins tugged at her husband's arm, her eyes fixed on Robert, "Charles, we're here because TecnoVen gave us the best offer. Let's not act impulsively."Mr. Collins huffed, "It's a matter of principle, Martha.""And it's a matter of business, Charles," Mrs. Collins retorted. "We need this technology, and they've got it."Defeated, Mr. Collins relented, "Fine, but we're not making any decisions without inspecting the premises."Robert nodded, "Of course, we welcome your scrutiny."As they toured TecnoVen's state-of-the-art facilities, the Collins couple couldn't hide their surprise. "These facilities are impressive," Mrs. C