A paramedic, a seasoned professional with a stern expression, leaned over the motionless figure lying before him. "We can't waste any time. His condition is critical," he exclaimed, voicing the urgency that hung heavy in the air. Michael fidgeted with nerves as he watched them in awe, amazed at their expertise. One of the paramedics glanced up at him in surprise. "Hey, you alright? Did you witness the accident?" she asked, concern lacing her voice."No, I was here's when it happened," Michael replied, his voice shaky. "I'm just glad you're here to help."The paramedic looked at Michael in admiration. "You did a good job guiding us here. Quick thinking can make all the difference in situations like these."Michael nodded gratefully, trying to ignore the conversation happening among the paramedics. They seemed bewildered by the state of Robert's wound. "It's incredible that he's still conscious. That wound is massive." Another paramedic exclaimed suprise.As they carefully loaded Rob
47Douglas furrowed his brow, concern etching his features. "I understand your worry, sir, but perhaps there's still hope. Michael is young, after all, and he's had a sheltered upbringing. Maybe he just needs a wake-up call or some exposure to the real world to ignite his ambition."Edward nodded thoughtfully, contemplating Douglas' words. "You may be right, Douglas. It's possible that he hasn't faced enough challenges or adversity to truly appreciate what's at stake. If things don't improve, we'll have to consider bringing in someone else who is better prepared for the responsibilities that come with leading our conglomerate."A sense of loss tinged Edward's voice, as if the idea of Michael not living up to his potential brought him a deep sorrow. "He is my son, and I had always hoped that he would be the one to carry on our family legacy. But if he can't rise to the occasion, we must prioritize the success of our company above all else."Douglas placed a reassuring hand on Edward's
48Robert's features contorted with a mix of emotions, including a touch of anger. He vehemently denied Michael's claim."That's not true!" Robert interjected, his voice laced with frustration. "I don't remember anyone saving me or calling an ambulance. This is just another lie!"Michael exchanged a puzzled glance with the woman, his mind spinning with disbelief. How could Robert called him a liar instead of thanking him? What an ungrateful moron! Shaking his head in anger, Michael confronted Robert, "If I didn't save your life, then how did I know about the accident and the hospital you were admitted to? And tell me, who do you think paid for your care? Certainly not you."Robert looked at him, stunned and shocked. He couldn't believe what Michael was saying. Denying everything, he retorted, "This is ridiculous! I don't owe you anything. You can't just come here and make up stories."Michael's face flushed with anger as he shot back, "I'm not making anything up! I saved your life an
49Robert's face hardened, his jaw clenched tightly. He stared at Hilary, but remained silent, his emotions simmering beneath the surface.Hilary gasped, her hand instinctively flying to her mouth. Confusion etched across her face, she urgently asked, "Which money? Where did it go? And why?"Robert's embarrassment was palpable as he finally spoke up, his voice tinged with frustration and bitterness. "I attended a seminar where Billy James was supposed to be. It was my chance to meet him, impress him, and make a difference. But this guy," he said, pointing angrily at Michael, "spoiled everything. Michael stole the show, impressing Billy James in my place and overshadowing my $200,000 donation with a staggering $5,000,000 donation."Hilary's eyes widened in disbelief, her voice rising with each passing second. "Five million dollars? Michael donated five million dollars? Why didn't you tell me earlier?" she exclaimed, struggling to comprehend the magnitude of the situation.Robert's resp
50"Hilary, you're awake!" Michael exclaimed, a mix of relief and surprise in his voice. "Are you alright?"Hilary looked around, momentarily disoriented. Her gaze landed on Robert, and she reached out to him, her voice filled with urgency. "We can't waste any more time, Robbie," she said, her voice resolute. "We need to find a way to save you."Nurse Ava, taken aback by Hilary's sudden recovery, quickly regained her composure. "I'm glad to see you're awake," she said, her voice filled with admiration. "But you need to rest and regain your strength."Hilary shook her head, her resolve unwavering. "There's no time for rest. Robbie's life is at stake," she insisted, her voice filled with determination.Her heart raced as she turned towards Michael, her eyes filled with desperation. With a quick inhale, she knelt down before him, her voice trembling as she spoke. "Michael, please," she begged, her hands clasped tightly together. "You have to save my brother Robbie's life. He's running ou
51A few minutes later, Hilary returned, accompanied by Dr. Anderson. Michael wasted no time in conveying his decision to fund Robert's vital operation."I've made up my mind, Dr. Anderson," Michael declared firmly. "I will be funding Mr. Thompson's operation."Dr. Anderson's eyebrows shot up in surprise. "You? But how? Can you afford such a hefty sum of money?"How could someone like Michael afford such a hefty sum of money? Doubt clouded the doctor's eyes.Michael maintained a calm demeanor, smirking ever so slightly. "Affordability is not an issue, doctor. Rest assured, I am fully capable of following through with this."The doctor's disbelief lingered in his eyes as he cautiously questioned Michael's ability to financially support such a costly operation. "Forgive me for doubting, but how can I trust that you won't back out?"Michael's confidence shone through as he responded, "I understand your skepticism, Dr. Anderson. But I assure you, I am determined to see this through. "Dri
52He hesitated for a moment, weighing the consequences of his response. Taking a deep breath, he decided to play it cool and nonchalantly replied, "Yeah, he's my dad. Why?"The director's eyes widened with excitement, and a smile stretched across his face. "You should have mentioned it earlier!" he exclaimed. "I knew Edward Ventura quite well. We were good friends."Michael's curiosity piqued, and he couldn't help but ask, "How do you know my dad?"The director let out a chuckle, his eyes sparkling with a mischievous glint. "Ah, well, your father and I crossed paths many years ago. We shared a few adventures together, you could say. But that's a story for another time. Right now, I have something important to discuss with you."Michael's intrigue grew, his mind racing with questions. "What is it?" he asked eagerly.The director leaned in, his voice hushed and confidential. "I need you to donate just the precise amount required for the operation, nothing more. A million dollars should
53The next morning, Michael couldn't contain his excitement as he headed over to Vanguard Industries to retrieve his invitation ticket. As he stepped into the building, a familiar feeling washed over him. He walked towards the reception desk and immediately noticed a change at the reception desk. There sat a young, attractive girl with a radiant smile, completely contrasting the previous old and grumpy receptionist who had been let go. With a warm greeting, Michael approached the receptionist. "Good morning! I'm here to see Mr. Peterson, the CEO," he stated, hoping to get some assistance.The receptionist's eyes sparkled as she returned his greeting. "Good morning! It's a pleasure to meet you. My name is Lily, and I'd be happy to help you. Just give me a moment, please." She swiftly typed a few things into her computer, her fingers dancing across the keyboard effortlessly, she was undoubtedly summoning Mr. Peterson.Curiosity piqued, after a brief pause, she looked up at him, her vo