Chapter One Hundred And Five; It Feels Good To Be Cared For. “We are out of stock and almost sold out for most of the commodities in the mall here.” was the first thing Vienna said when Lucas picked up her call.And it surprised Lucas that the time of her voice indicated that she was happy about it, as of it was a very good thing and she was proud of it. “Miss Whales, why does it seem to me as if you are actually happy about the information you just passed of our stores being out of stock, why is that so? If I may ask? Is there something else regarding this information that I still need to know?” Lucas asked.“Of cause it’s a good thing that we are running out of sales, it means that business is really good, you’re a very calculating man, how can you miss this information?” Vienna Whales said. “Oh wait, I know, you are trying to test me to see if I know when to be a happy person or not during business right? Well I do know that there has to be a lot of work getting products from va
Chapter One Hundred And Six, I must make it.How could such a day be speedily brought to pass? Within just a few minute, many thoughts and ideas swept into Lucas’s mind and he was feeling even more pitiful until he heard a small voice.“Definitely not by you sulking here.” His subconscious mind answered him with the most accurate answer. “If you want results, you actually need to get working already and don’t be scared of taking risks, for if you don’t, you risk the day coming” were the remaining words. Thoughts of that happening flashed his mind, and as if in a trance, he could almost see his business crashing, and his father shaking his head in disappointment, his grandfather laughing at his failure and even the face of his mother also disappointed still came to his mind and he shouted, “No!”As if he was stroked with a hard rock on the head, he immediately sobered up and was back to reality,He must do it, no matter what, he must make it work, was the only thought in his mind, he
Chapter One Hundred And Seven; All For The Best Of The CommunityHe was beginning to see sense in what she was saying, and hence, he found out that he no longer hated the idea of having foreign investors.In fact, he was thinking about it and it seemed that it might be a very good idea, that is if he lets go of his own limitations, which is the sole fact that he fears not being able to relate well with the foreigners because of certain differences. For doing business with others, it is good to know at least their basic languages so as to be able to relate well with them. Although he had been to a very good school, all thanks to his mother, he still didn’t get to learn a lot of languages, only his primary native language and a little of English.So although he dreams of going international, he is still stocked due to the fear of not being able to live up to the expectations of the foreign investors, partners or whoever they are.“Miss Brooks, do you have time to come to my office?” L
Chapter One Hundred And Eight; Shares Being Shared “Right us quite a big number as opposed to the original one mall, I’ll have to discuss it with them again, but I am not promising that they would accept it, however, if they do, I want something in return,” Vienna Wakes said after giving it much thoughts.“You’ll get a commission for ever mall that they invest in.” Lucas saved her the trouble of thinking about what she wanted.ButVienna had already thought about it and she wanted something different now, something big.“I want fifty percent of the shares.” Vienna said, with her head up high and a big smile on her face that Lucas almost thought she was joking. “Haha you almost got me, but I know and you said, that you were not doing it for the money.” Lucas said.“I was serious when I said I wanted to help my community, but now we are talking about other communities, and what, I’ll be doing all the heavy work of convincing them to accept the offer, I think I deserve a little more tha
Chapter one hundred and seven; Fatherly Love from afar“Hahaha!” Lucas laughed, surprising her and the look on his face says that he was not planning to let her have it this time around, why would he?“Miss Wales, I would like you to know that since you have already brought the idea, we can still complete it with or without your presence!” Lucas’s voice was very calm and collected, it was as if he was not just threatening her, because that was truly how he felt.“You’ve already given me every information I need to know about those investors who seem to love living off of the help they render to people, what makes you think that my staff that are professionals in the field of persuasion can not gather facts, bypass you and directly meet the investors and have them invest without being mentioned.”Vienna gasped in surprise at his words, was he really going to push through and bypass her only because she wanted something to get as pay for her hard work? That was really cruel of him to do
Chapter One Hundred and Ten ; It’s Not A Piece Of Cake.What was her answer going to be? What was she going to say and how would the outcome of her thoughts be?It would be a lie to say that Lucas wasn’t nervous or scared of the out come. The truth is, he currently had so many things to do on his plate, taking care of three companies on his own is not a piece of cake, so he somewhat needed her and whatever skills she used to convince such a big foreign organization to invest in their shopping complex, it would take a lot of weight off his shoulder. So even though he acted as if he could still have done it without her, and he still had other plans, he really doesn’t, but he silently wished she would agree to it.“Hello Mr. Baron, good evening,” “Evening Miss Wales, Have you come to a conclusion?” Lucas said with his breath held.“Yes I have, I have carefully thought about it, what would be more profitable time as an individual, and to those communities, honestly, this investment wit
Chapter One Hundred And Eleven; Informal Business Partners“What is the condition that would require my good performance for you to forgive me?” “It’s simple, Mr. Baron, I will tell you after the meal, eat up.”So they continued eating without mentioning it. Lucas tried to have small conversations with her about when her movie would be released and wether she plans to continue acting, or would she quit and take administrative position in the complex. All those questions, Vienna provided an answer to, and soon, they were done eating, Lucas drove her back home and she finally told him what it was she wanted him to do for her.“I want you to call me by my name, Vienna, not Miss Wales, we’ve been partners, I could even say friends, but you treat me so formerly, I want that to change.”“Very well then Miss.. Vienna,” Lucas almost addressed her as Miss again, luckily he corrected himself. If all she wanted was to be informal with him, he would allow that, after all, they were business par
Chapter One Hundred And Twelve; The Big And Mighty .The next day, Vienna got ready and went back to the office building to pitch the business plan to the executives, as just as Sylvester had said, everything went by really well and the plan was accepted, the money was even transferred to the complex account and soon, Vienna was back in the country. Now that capital was already acquired, Lucas had hired more professionals in various fields to bring the plan into actualization in the shortest time possible.He also set the media team to handle the publicity of how the information was going to pass out, and Vienna was to to be in charge of it since she is a rising movie actress. So far, up to five lands were already acquired in the designated areas and the building of the shopping complex was already in place. Although the plan was to have them all erected at the same time, but two of the lands were having some issues surrounding the acquisition of the land. One of it is a private p
Chapter Two Hundred And Forty Eight; Is This How It Ends?Inside the mansion Bafon mansion, the atmosphere was tense, tinged with a sense of worry and unease. News of Lucas' disappearance had spread like wildfire, sending shockwaves through the household.In the opulent study, Grandpa Baron, with his aged face etched with concern, paced back and forth. His footsteps echoed against the polished marble floor, mirroring the rhythm of his troubled thoughts. His eyes, once sharp and piercing, now carried a weight of anxiety and suspicion.Though Grandpa Baron cared deeply for his grandson, a nagging doubt had taken root in his heart. He couldn't shake the feeling that Kevin, his beloved but troubled grandson, may have played a role in Lucas' sudden disappearance. It pained him to entertain such thoughts, but the pieces of the puzzle seemed to point in that direction.However, Grandpa Baron was a master of disguise, adept at concealing his true feelings. He couldn't bear to burden Lucas' pa
Chapter Two Hundred And Forty Nine; Advice Interpreted In The Wrong Way. “Don’t be paranoid? You think I am paranoid?” Kevin looked up at him “Yes, keep your cool, he’ll be alright.” Lucas tried to calm the young man in front of him now, but Kevin refused to ge calmed. “It’s easy for you to say that right, you want him to die don’t you? From nowhere you come into our lives, first you joined the company and tried to be on everyone’s good book, and then what? You have my father give you half of his shares and make you the president, isn’t that your plan all along? You did all this right?” Kevin screamed at the top of his lungs as he painted accusing fingers at LUCAS. “Why would I have to do that, Mr. Baron brought me home by himself, you know this Kevin, don’t be getting ideas.” Right now, Kevin was being reminded of all those rich and spilt kids that would just blame anything around them when things didn’t go their way.“Wrong, you are wrong, what I know is that you were the one
Chapter Two Hundred And Forty Six; Mr. Patrick’s Confession Time.When Kevin said he will not let him down, he knew that it was easier said than done. Lucas had already made significant contribution and it would be hard for Kevin who is carefree and a little more laid back about business to catch up with him. That is why he didn’t want to accept Lucas at furst because he didn’t want Kevin to have such fierce competition with Lucas who grew up so lowly. Their conversation between Him and Patrick his son simtill lingered in his mind to this day when Payrick came to him regarding Lucas. "Patrick," Grandpa Baron's voice boomed, filled with a mixture of anger and frustration. "I cannot comprehend why you have become so enamored with this newfound son of yours. We have managed just fine without him all these years, and suddenly you're bending over backward to accommodate his every whim."Patrick, with a calm demeanor, maintained eye contact with his father, determined to make his point.
Chapter Two Hundred And Forty Five; Advice to Favourite Grandson In the lavish and stately study of Grandpa Baron, a profound conversation was about to unfold. The room exuded an air of wisdom and experience, adorned with antique furniture and shelves lined with books that whispered tales of generations past. The Baron, with his silver mane and commanding presence, sat behind an ornate desk, his eyes filled with a mix of fondness and concern as Kevin entered."Kevin, my dear grandson," the Baron began, his voice carrying the weight of authority and wisdom. "I have called you here today to discuss the future of Baron Enterprise, and more importantly, your place within it."Kevin listened intently, a mixture of anticipation and apprehension coursing through his veins. He respected and admired his grandfather, and to be entrusted with the fate of the family legacy was both a great honor and a weighty responsibility.Even before Grandpa Bar
Chapter Two Hundred And Forty Four; Sacrificing for the family As Lucas stood before the board, he could sense the anticipation in the room. The proposal he was about to present carried with it the weight of his hopes and aspirations for Baron Enterprise. It was a solution born out of careful analysis, creative thinking, and a deep understanding of the changing business landscape.“This is not necessarily selling my company, but I am thinking of a possible partnership or even merger.” Lucas answered, really surpri ng who heard him saying he was practically giving up his company for Baron Enterprise.The plan is having a merger with his company that’s in charge of changing accepting orders from people abroad and online.Taking a deep breath, Lucas began to outline his vision. He described his plan to merge Baron Enterprise with the company he had founded an innovative platform that connected online and local buyers directly with traders and produc
Chapter Two Hundred And Forty Three; Wanted For A ReasonAs Lucas stepped into his new office, his mind was still reeling from the whirlwind of events that had unfolded so swiftly. The spacious room exuded an air of authority, with its sleek furniture, towering bookshelves, and the panoramic view of the city skyline stretching out before him. It was a physical manifestation of the responsibility that now rested on his shoulders.He took a moment to collect himself, inhaling deeply to steady his racing heart. This was the place where he was meant to make decisions that would shape the future of Baron Enterprise but was this right or are things moving a little too fast? But before he could even settle with his thoughts in his seat, a knock at the door interrupted his thoughts.Kevin's voice, tinged with a thinly veiled disdain, called out, "Lucas, may I have a word with you?"Lucas glanced at the door, surprised by his brother's sudden appearance. He motioned for Kevin to enter, his m
Chapter Two Hundred And Forty Two; Lucas Becomes The New Director of Baron Enterprise.As Lucas stepped into the grand boardroom, his heart pounded in his chest. The anticipation in the air was palpable, mingling with a sense of nervous energy. He took in the magnificence of the room, the polished mahogany table, the plush leather chairs, and the gleaming chandeliers casting a warm glow and he could only conclude in his mind that the Barons do live making their environment stand out in a grand way.A hush fell over the room as all eyes turned towards Lucas. The members of the board, distinguished individuals with years of experience etched into their faces and regarded him with a mixture of curiosity and respect. Lucas felt a knot forming in his stomach as he realised that he was the centre of attention.The chairman of the board, Mr. Patrick Baron rose from his seat. His voice resonated with authority as he addressed the room. "Ladies and gentlemen, allow
Chapter Two Hundred And Forty One; LUCAS Is Now Mr. Family Man“Sir, I will lead you to your office,” the secretary who was standing in front of Lucas said bringing him back to reality as he seemed to be zoning off too much today. “Alright. Did Mr. Baron tell you why I am here?” He asked? The secretary but the secretary politely told him that he was following orders and was simply asked to bring him to his office. Lucas wanted to ask Kevin what was really going on but Kevin had already disappeared into his office and knocked the door really hard. It was enough sign to tell Lucas to keep off so he just went to his office as the secretary lead the way. Taking a look at the office, it was a very spacious office with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the bustling city below, Lucas found himself standing in his new workspace. The room was meticulously decorated, exuding a sense of sophistication and power. A sleek desk, adorned with state-of-the-art technology, dominated the space.
Chapter Two Hundred And Forty;; The Life Of A Young Master The table was quiet for a long time after Grandpa Baron said that. No one knew what to say or what to do, especially Lucas who just continued eating as if he did not hear anything. “I think what father meant is that we’re happy to have you here.” Patrick said after a while, Melissa just squeezed LUCAS arm reassuringly. After that, no one said anything else until they finished eating and Lucas decided to show himself again, by taking his plates to the kitchen.When Patrick saw him lifting his plate, he immediateky salvaged him by calling his attention, “Lucas, keep that plate and go get ready, it’s about time you get to work.” Patrick said. Lucas looked puzzled, his brow furrowing. He glanced down at his outfit, the same suit he had worn the previous day, and couldn't understand why there was an issue. After all, it was his best suit, meticulously chosen for the occasion, and he had even made sure to have it cleaned by the