Ch. 1031..1040
Life at the Top Chapter 1031
“Our proposal for this project has already been approved by the headquarters half a year ago.
“And the arrangement for the demolition compensation?” Jasper asked.
Currey was even more confused as he replied, “That is decided according to the documents the local officials gave us. As a real estate business, all we have to do is compensate the people affected in accordance with the statement provided by the officials. Is there something wrong?”
Jasper scoffed and replied, “This Robust Demolitions you partnered with is only paying half the standard demolition fee!”
Currey’s expression immediately changed and he hastily replied, “The real estate company knows nothing of this, Mr. Laine.
“I’ll have someone investigate your involvement in this. Bring them out of here now now, I don’t want to see them.
“And contact all households that signed the demolition contract. Find out how many families Ronald had forced to sign the release and ensure that you pay them the standard compensation package.
“We’re demolishing people’s homes, so it’s only right we pay them exactly how much we owe. JW Real Estates will not profit from immorally-made money.”
Currey quickly replied, “Yes, Mr. Laine. I’ll get to it right away.”
Jasper waved his hand and did not speak anymore.
Currey glared at Ronald and shouted, “What are you waiting for? Come with me! Or do you want to continue being Mr. Laine’s eyesore?”
Ronald got up despondently and followed Currey out with a blank expression on his face. Archer left with them, his complexion pale and his head drooped down.
Archer was in despair now that he was fired; He knew that he was screwed.
Still, his situation was slightly better than Ronald’s.
After all, all he lost was a job, and it would not be too difficult for Archer to find another job. Ronald had lost his entire company, so he was the one with nothing left.
Ronald grabbed Currey once they walked out the door.
As far as Currey was concerned, Ronald was like the plague, and he did not want to come in contact with the latter. Currey quickly shouted, “Let go! What’re you holding on to me for?”
Ronald let go of him and pleaded sorrowfully, “I’m not even asking for your help, Mr. Abbott. But please, seeing as how we used to be partners, just tell me. Who is Jasper Laine?”
“What for? So you can take revenge?” Currey could tell what Ronald was thinking by the latter’s expression.
“As you said, because we used to be partners, so I’ll do you one better. I suggest you give up on the idea of taking revenge.
“Mr. Laine isn’t like the people you used to deal with. You can’t threaten or scare Mr. Laine off with a few thugs.
“This is JW we’re talking about. JW! Think about it properly, what do you think those two letters represent?”
Ronald looked deep in thought when he heard Currey say this.
Beside them, Archer reacted first and gasped, “JW, that’s Jasper’s and Wendy’s initials together isn’t it?”
Currey scoffed and answered, “So you’re not too stupid, brat. Now, do you know who Mr. Laine is?
“He’s the owner of JW! And not just JW Real Estates. The real estate company is only one of Mr. Laine’s many subsidiaries. Each of them is just as powerful, if not more so than the real estate company. Who do you think you’re offending here?
“No one in Southeast Province would dare to disrespect Mr. Laine, let alone the two of you.”
Life at the Top Chapter 1032
Both Ronald and Archer were in despair when they heard Currey.
It was only then that they finally understood who they had offended.
This was especially true for Archer.
He had bullied and looked down on Jasper because he believed that Jasper could not be someone outstanding, considering he was a poor fellow back when they were studying together. Had he not done so, Archer imagined that he would be living a life of riches now as Jasper’s ex-classmate.
Therefore, Archer was immediately filled with regret.
He knew it was impossible, but Archer still felt the urge to rush back to kneel and beg for Jasper’s forgiveness.
However, the tightly closed door had cut off any possibility of this.
“Oh my God.” Ronald swayed before leaning against the wall limply. He wanted to cry but had no tears to shed.
“What now?”
Ronald suddenly turned to Archer, grabbed his hand, and shouted, “You two used to be classmates, right? Go beg for forgiveness! Maybe he’ll give us another chance seeing as how you used to be classmates!”
Archer flung off Ronald’s hand distastefully and replied, “I wouldn’t have offended him if not for you! You want me to beg his forgiveness now? You think he’ll give me the time of day?
“I only lost my job now, but if I truly piss him off, who knows if I’ll end up dead because of it!”
Ronald’s expression soured. “You’re blaming me?”
Archer harrumphed and answered aggrievedly, “Who else am I supposed to blame but you? You’re the one that’s been acting high and mighty because you’re considered strong and have contacts here Faith County. This is karma! It’s only a matter of time before something like this happens to people like you!”
Ronald was already greatly agitated to begin with, so when Archer began to look down on him as well, he grew enraged. “What the f*ck did you just say to me?!”
Ronald then swiftly punched Archer across the face.
Unfortunately, Archer was not someone to be offended either. Feeling both regret and the hasty urge to vent, Archer could no longer hold back when Ronald punched him, so he pounced on the man, causing the two to get into a fistfight.
Currey shook his head at the sight of the two intertwined and fighting figures.
No matter how he looked at it, the scene reminded him of a dogfight.
Not that it mattered to him anymore.
In the room, Ms. Tiana was also curious about who exactly Jasper was.
“Are you some owner of a big business now, Jasper?” Ms. Tiana asked.
Jasper sat by the bed and smiled “I wouldn’t call it a big business, but I do own something quaint.”
Despite this, Ms. Tiana shook her head. “Don’t lie to me. I can tell from how that old head of the real estate business treated you with respect that you’re his superior, aren’t you?”
Jasper nodded. “Yeah.”
Ms. Tiana sighed and spoke with relief, “Good, then. Very good. You’re the most successful one out of all my students.”
“Ms. Tiana, it’s still my fault for being too lax with my subordinates. If I wasn’t, this wouldn’t have happened. You heard him just now, so don’t worry. I’ll follow up on this and I’ll make sure the families who signed the demolition contract won’t be cheated of any money,” Jasper spoke gently.
Ms. Tiana replied contentedly, “I know. I have nothing to fear now that I have your promise. As for the demolition contract, I’ll sign it right away once you have your people come over.”
“There’s no rush for that, Ms. Tiana. I plan to bring you over to the hospital in the provincial capital for treatment. Your health is still the most important thing here. Just look, all these children are eagerly waiting for you to get better,” Jasper spoke.
However, Ms. Tiana seemed hesitant. “I didn’t go to the hospital before because I was worried that they’d demolish the building while I was away.
“Even now, when there’s no need to worry about that anymore, going to the hospital is still too expensive. I know my own body, so once the psychological illness is gone, I’ll be return to health in no time at all.”
Jasper glanced at Wendy to signal for her help in persuading Ms. Tiana when he realized that she was unwilling to go to Nauritus City with him.
Thus, Wendy spoke gently as well, “Ms. Tiana, it’s only right we go to the hospital when we’re not feeling well. Don’t worry about the expenses and all. Jasp is doing really well now and the money won’t be a problem.”
Despite this, Ms. Tiana still looked hesitant.
Jasper smiled. “Actually, Ms. Tiana, I was hoping to seek out a charity foundation when I got back. Mainly to sponsor children who are too poor to attend schools.
“But I’m too busy with work most of the time and I can’t do this all on my own. Therefore, I was hoping you could become the first chairwoman of this charity foundation, Ms. Tiana.”
Ms. Tiana flushed in excitement and gasped. “Really?”
Jasper nodded and smiled. “Of course. I’m planning to donate an initial amount of 10 million to the charity foundation. It’s not much, but it should help quite a few children. That’s why you have to take care of yourself, Ms. Tiana. Otherwise, how will you provide them a chance to go to school?”
With that, Ms. Tiana replied excitedly, “Yes, yes, you’re right. This is great, Jasper. You’ve never disappointed me. A successful person should always think of ways to benefit the rest of the world, and you’ve already begun to walk this path.”
“You’re too kind, Ms. Tiana. I’m still far from a successful person, I’m just doing what I can with the little that I have.”
“That’s precious enough as it is. In that case, I agree, I’ll go to Nauritus City immediately!
“However, there are still a few things I need to pack up, and the children don’t know that I’m going to Nauritus City. I’ve got to tell them first, so I can’t leave today,” Ms. Tiana continued ashamedly.
“Leave it to me.”
Ramona suddenly spoke up, “Jasper, Wendy, you two are busy people so you should go back first. I’ll send Ms. Tiana to Naurtitus City tomorrow or the day after once she’s totally prepared.”
Jasper nodded and replied, “Thank you for your trouble, then. This is my name card, so just contact me then.”
Ramona suppressed her excitement and took Jasper’s name card, then she beamed brightly at Jasper and asked, “If possible, can I help out in the charity foundation too?”
“Of course. The charity foundation’s still in the process of being founded, and it’s in dire need of recruits. I’d be grateful if you wanted to join it,” Jasper answered with a crescent-eyed smile.
Both Jasper and Wendy were in a great mood as they left Ms. Tiana’s house.
After all, they had successfully dealt with Ms. Tiana’s issue.
“Is this charity foundation real?” Wendy asked when she got in the car.
“Of course it is. It’s not like I can go back on my word now that I’ve said it,” Jasper replied while driving. “I’ve been poor before so I know how it feels when you can’t even afford a meal. How is anyone supposed to afford education under circumstances like that?
“It’s within my capabilities, so I’ll help them as best as I can. It won’t cost us much, but it’ll be a life-changing opportunity for the kids.”
Life at the Top Chapter 1033
As Jasper drove away from Faith County, an Audi approached it from the opposite direction.
Excluding the driver, there was a man and a woman in the car.
“This is your hometown, Miss Hunt? What a great and scenic place. It’s just as I expected.”
The man in a smart outfit spoke with stilted Somerish as he looked out the window.
Beside him was a woman dressed in a feminine suit with light makeup on her face.
This woman was the ‘Miss Hunt’ he was referring to.
Jasper would be shocked if he saw this, for Miss Hunt was none other than Penelope.
With Jasper’s recommendation, Penelope had gotten a job in ICBS thanks to John. However, she resigned two months later and was now completely different.
Not even the people closest to Penelope would believe that the harsh and calculative girl would turn into someone that now oozed with confidence.
“Are you implying something else, Mr. Carr?” Penelope asked calmly.
Leroy smiled and replied, “I was just voicing my genuine thoughts. Oh, right, do you plan to stay for a few days now that you’ve returned to your hometown, Miss Hunt?”
Penelope replied, “I’ve only come this time to fetch my mother to Waterhoof City for treatment. It won’t take long, so don’t worry. I know what my mission is, and I won’t add to Mr. Atticus’ troubles. I’ll return as fast as I can.”
Leroy chuckled and said, “Don’t worry about it. After all, we are partners. As long as you’ve done what Mr. Atticus wants of you, he’ll give you what you want in return.”
Penelope replied indifferently, “If we really are partners, then how would you explain Mr. Atticus having you stay by my side to monitor me?”
Leroy laughed out loud. “You’re being too sensitive, Miss Hunt. Mr. Atticus already told me that I’m only by your side to help you deal with issues you cannot handle alone.
“After all, you’re still new to the business world. If not for my help, your company would not have been able to develop so smoothly. What use is Mr. Atticus’ taking care of you and giving you business orders when you can’t even carry them out?”
Penelope’s gaze sharpened and she spoke indifferently, “I know exactly what your plans are. Still, it’s one thing to act when others are observing you, but aren’t you tired of acting even in private?”
Leroy twisted his body and leaned toward Penelope to ask. “Tired? I’m full of energy and vigor.”
As he said this, Leroy had already placed a hand on Penelope’s thigh before she realized.
Penelope immediately struggled and pushed Leroy’s body and hand away as if she were sudden electrocuted. She spoke icily, “Did Mr. Atticus tell you to do this too, Leroy?”
Leroy’s ego was bruised after being pushed away and he replied coldly, “I just wanted to learn more of you. Don’t you want to gain more benefits through me?”
Penelope sneered. “You’re just one of Mr. Atticus’ dogs, so what benefits can you offer me? I suggest you show some respect!”
Leroy harrumphed and stared at Penelope. “Stupid b*tch! Don’t take my kindness for granted. Who do you think you are? You’re nothing more than a lowly b*tch in front of Mr. Atticus!
“Had it not been for your relationship with Jasper and the fact that you’re useful to us, Mr. Atticus would never spared a b*tch like you a glance!”
Penelope stared at Leroy frigidly and answered, “Even if I’m just a b*tch, you aren’t any more dignified than I am! My deal with Mr. Atticus is between him and me. It has nothing to do with a servant like you merely stands by Mr. Atticus’ side!”
Penelope ignored Leroy’s wretched expression and continued to speak, “I already told you. Either show some respect, or I’ll notify Mr. Atticus immediately!
“It’s just like you said. I’m still useful to Mr. Atticus, so do you think he’ll get rid of me or you?”
When he heard this, Leroy’s expression changed slightly.
Penelope was no more than a facet for him to vent out his sexual frustrations, but it was not worth it to anger Mr. Atticus over such a thing.
As Mr. Atticus’s lackey, Leroy knew better than most that the last thing he should do was anger Mr. Atticus. If he did, he would face a fate more tragic than he could ever imagine.
Penelope harrumphed when she saw that she had deterred Leroy, and said, “I can pretend that nothing happened earlier, but I don’t want it to happen again.
“Mr. Atticus had you monitor me, so do your job honestly. I’ll also complete what I promised Mr. Atticus, but this process has nothing to do with a servant like you. Don’t even think about touching me again or I’ll make you pay for it!”
Leroy narrowed his eyes and bore his gaze into Penelope.
He had first seen this woman in Mr. Atticus’s office. She was terrified, akin to a newborn chick, and she had an air of an insignificant townsperson. She was an extremely ordinary woman of the lowest rank.
However, this woman was easily adaptable and it had only taken a few months before she changed completely. Now, a couple of curt sentences from her had Leroy admitting defeat.
Leroy harrumphed after weighing his options. Then, he temporarily dismissed his lustful desires.
After all, this woman would become a stray dog after she stopped being of use to Mr. Atticus. ‘When that happens, I’ll get to do whatever I want to her.’
When he thought of this, Leroy felt his body heat up.
‘Just you wait. You may be prideful now, but I’d like to see how you die once Mr. Atticus’ plan succeeds!’
In the car, Leroy’s expression jumped between prideful and wretched as his mind raced through these thoughts. Meanwhile, Penelope remained expressionless.
The hand hidden by her side curled into a fist as Penelope took a deep breath, her gaze sharpening.
She knew that both Leroy beside her and Mr. Atticus far away in Harbor City saw her as nothing more than a pawn to deal with Jasper. Not that she cared, for she was using them at the same time too.
“How have you been lately, Jasper?”
Penelope muttered internally as she stared at the familiar bustling street outside the window.
Life at the Top Chapter 1034
Jasper had no idea of the two special guests that arrived in Faith County after him.
At the same time, the man was currently discussing the charity foundation with Wendy.
“This charity foundation will aim to sponsor poor children so they can have a chance to pursue their education. This is also all it will do. From what I know, international charity foundations tend to invest donations in insured financial products and do charitable transactions with the returns as they’re non-profit organizations.
“Some larger charity foundation even have their own investment department.
“JW Company is this charity foundation’s only shareholder, so we won’t do public fundraising. It’s also not time for that yet.
“I’ll have Jake represent me to invest the 10 million from Harbor City when the time comes, and I intend to have an annualized rate of return for this. Say that we set a rate of return of 10%. If it exceeds, then all is well, but if it doesn’t, then I’ll top it up with my own money.”
Wendy frowned when she heard that, “Won’t you make a huge loss if you’re coming up with the principal and also covering the shortage?”
Jasper smiled and replied, “We’re doing charity. In comparison to the money we make, this isn’t much. But this seemingly small sum of money is enough to help a lot of children.
“Besides, it’s not like we’ll definitely making a loss. Charity foundations come with many tax incentives. The main reason why so many enterprises abroad are passionate about doing charity is that it helps reduce the amount of tax one has to pay. For every 1 million we donate, we pay 800 thousand less for tax, meaning we only pay a net amount of 200 thousand. At the same time, we win both the officials’ and society’s favor.
“Our country also has systems like this in place to encourage the development of the charity industry. A certain amount of donations from an enterprise can result in a 100% tax deduction. When this happens, we don’t have to pay a buck, since our tax money will be considered to have gone to charitable donations.
“The most important thing is that the charity foundation is an asset, which benefits us, the society, and the officials.”
Since she worked in finance, Wendy immediately understood what Jasper meant. Soon, her expression became one of keen interest.
“I’ll have someone follow up on this immediately once we get back, so we can go through the procedures as soon as possible.”
Jasper smiled. “Alright. But remember that the point of this is to do charity within our capabilities, so keep things low-profile. There’s no need to broadcast it to the world or it’ll lose its original meaning.
“Find professionals to manage it when the time comes, and we’ll try to distance it as far away from JW Capital and its subsidiaries as possible.”
“Okay,” Wendy replied.
Jasper had almost no time to rest once they returned to Nauritus City as he joined Wendy in submerging himself in work.
The larger JW Capital’s subsidiaries became, the more decisions the parent company had to make.
The team of decision-makers and senior executives grew as well, and while they did help share quite a bit of Jasper’s and Wendy’s burdens, Jasper still had to oversee and approve important decisions and proposals.
“The research and development of a stepper?”
Jasper looked up from the report in his hands to Lance and Chad, who sat in front of him, and asked with a smile, “You two have given me a very tricky question here.”
Chad smiled wryly and replied, “I couldn’t decide when Lance handed the report to me, so I thought that it’d be best if you made the decision, Mr. Laine. After all, a few hundred million a year for research is just too much.
“If I’m right, this research expense of a few hundred million has already gone through multiple rounds of restructuring, hasn’t it?” Jasper asked Lance.
Lance nodded embarrassedly and replied, “That’s true, Mr. Laine. But this was something Professor McGee had strongly requested.
“They said that our country’s technical field is currently empty, and future electronics will all rely on technical development of the integrated circuit. Relying on imported goods will one day become a weakness others can exploit.”
Jasper nodded but did not make a sound.
He was well aware of this.
In the year 2020 of his past life, Warwick was the leading figure in the private technology manufacturing industry within the country. Despite this, the company had been cornered and stunted by its competitors due to their inability to compete technically when it came to integrated circuits.
There were two main components in electronic equipment: the operating system software, and the integrated circuit hardware.
Huge western technology companies also had a tight grip of these two components.
For the operating system, Google was already one of Jasper’s subsidiaries. One of the advantages of his reincarnation was that Jasper understood the importance of operating systems before everyone else did, as well as the fact that the creator of Android would also hail from Google.
When it came to hardware, however… the West had almost a century’s worth of technological advancement over them, and it would not be so easy to surpass them.
“This few hundred million won’t be enough,” Jasper put his report down and answered.
Lance and Chad shared a look as they did not understand what Jasper meant.
“I know about steppers, and the integrated system is the most important component of it all. A research fund of a few hundred billion a year isn’t enough to develop something like this and I don’t remember Professor McGee being someone so unreliable.”
Chad smiled wryly at Jasper’s words and turned to Lance. “I told you, didn’t I? Don’t even think about trying to deceive Mr. Laine. Just tell him your requests as it is.”
Lance then answered with an embarrassed expression, “There really isn’t hiding anything from you, Mr. Laine. Indeed, a few hundred million is only enough for the initial stages of research and development.
“Once research actually begins, Professor McGee and his team estimate funding of at least 5 billion a year if he hopes to produce any results. After all, we’re short of a decade’s worth of technological prowess, and are lacking the research normally carried out by hundreds of national experts.”
“So you two decided to come up with this plan to placate Elbert while deterring me at the same time?” Jasper asked.
Lance quickly replied, “We didn’t think too much about it. A research fund of a few hundred million is already a huge deal to any enterprise within the country.
“Therefore, you’d have realized that something was wrong after a detailed investigation of the market, Mr. Laine, and we suspected that you’d decline the proposal. I’m sure Professor McGee would also have been deterred by this.”
After saying this, Lance sighed. “All these technicians know is how to ask for money, but they don’t know how difficult it is to make money to begin with. Who can possibly support R&D that cost billions every year?”
Jasper fell silent for a long moment to think about it before he finally spoke up, “Still, not every expense can be cut down.”
Life at the Top Chapter 1035
Jasper’s words stunned both Chad and Lance.
“So you’re actually going to invest the amount, Mr. Laine?” Lance asked in shock.
Chad was a higher-ranked employee, after all, so he had a more comprehensive view of issues. Chad frowned and replied, “Mr. Laine, I don’t think such a large investment is a good idea.”
“I’m sure you two are aware of the basics of the company’s current financial situation.” Jasper leaned back against his office chair and sipped his tea with a crescent-eyed smile.
“We aren’t exactly at risk of a capital chain rupture, but that’s only because all our companies are developing exponentially. The money we’re making is almost completely rechanneled back into the company.
“Our electronics company produces the most profits out of all the subsidiaries, but it only gave the parent company 80 million worth of profit last month. Do you think the parent company can afford to allocate them billions to fund research?”
Lance replied in embarrassment. “It’s mainly because construction of the new factory area has already wrapped up over in Reed City. Therefore, we invested a little more to add a few production lines over there.”
Jasper waved him off and replied, “The company needs to develop, so it will need money. I’m not blaming you for the small profit, but telling you instead that the JW Capital’s cash flow is tight, and it can’t afford such expensive research.”
“If that’s the case, then what did you mean when you said that not every expense can be cut down, Mr. Laine?” Chad asked.
“Exactly what you think I mean.”
Jasper placed the report into his drawer and continued.
“For every enterprise that relies on advanced technology, research funding is an expense they cannot afford to reduce. Take a look at the top advanced technology companies around the world and observe how many of them have research funds that represent at least 50% of their operating costs.
“To a technology company, technology is their lifeforce. A monopoly on technology can lead to endless wealth and a worldwide market to reap from.
“All of JW Capital’s subsidiaries aim to reach the pinnacle of their respective industries. Not just within the province or country, but within Terra or even the entire world.
“Which is why we’re not aiming to be labor-intensive enterprises, but rather profitable technological giants with plenty of influence.”
Jasper smiled as he looked at Lance and Chad who were inexplicably excited. He continued.
“Go back and tell Professor McGee that I already know about his request. Tell him to give me a moment and I’ll talk to him personally soon. He has my vow that he’ll get to research this project.”
“Alright, Mr. Laine. I’ll make sure he is notified of this,” Lance replied.
Jasper waved his hand and spoke, “Leave everything else to me from here on. I’ll take a trip to Waterhoof City to negotiate this, then I’ll update you on the results afterward.”
‘Waterhoof City to negotiate?
‘There are stepper technicians or companies to negotiate with in Waterhoof City?’
Lance and Chad exchange a look, but were smart enough not to ask questions. Now that the matter was settled, the two of them left the room.
Jasper sat in the office for a moment as he thought about the stepper.
A few minutes later, he picked up his phone and called Zachary.
“Hi, Uncle Law. I remember that Old Master Law had donated a stepper to a few years ago, right?”
Jasper continued after hearing the response from the other end of the line.
“Haha, I know that it’s an old device from decades ago. But the old master had the ability and contacts to get a stepper into the country. That’s something that most people can only dream of.
“I know that the west has a technology blockade on the stepper, so I wasn’t planning to look for a stepper manufacturer outside the country. Instead, I was thinking that perhaps Hoofmorn University might have some results after researching the stepper for so many years.”
Life at the Top Chapter 1036
“Yes, I do have plans to bring over a team to conduct the research alongside them.
“I’m prepared to invest astronomical amounts into this. This is going to be a magnificent thing if we succeed. It’ll mean that JW Electronics broke through the technology blockade and will mark a turning point in which JW Electronics can finally make its way toward the international market.
“Alright. Thank’s for your trouble putting, Uncle Law. I’ll take a trip to Waterhoof City immediately to contact them.”
Hanging up the phone, Jasper had just stood to leave the room when his phone rang again.
This caught Jasper off guard as the phone call was from Gale, who Jasper had not talked to in a long time.
“Old Master Hurlbutt, is there a reason you’ve taken time out of your busy schedule to talk to me today?”
While Gale and Old Master Law were elders of the same generation, Jasper made sure to maintain enough distance with this crafty Haddock businessman that liked to look down on the younger generation for their lack of experience.
Crafty businessmen like him were ruthless, and they left no remains when they devoured others whole.
Take Conrad’s aluminum mine that Jasper had tried hard to seize before for example.
It was an aluminum mine without too much developmental value, yet Gale had spent quite a bit of money to get it through Jasper.
Jasper remembered being confused as to why the old man would spend so much when there was not much to profits to be made from it. Even if Gale had gained ownership of the aluminum mine, he would still have to deduct inflation and interest from the remaining extractable ores.
He did not know why Gale was so stubborn about the aluminum mine.
However, what the old man did with the mine afterward completely stunned Jasper.
It also taught Jasper the difference between himself and this crafty businessman.
The old man had no desire to continue developing the mine at all. Instead, he immediately split the mining company into seventeen or eighteen smaller companies, each holding few resources and property rights. Then he completely reorganized them and sought out a few listed mining companies to sell the assets to.
Those listed companies released statements claiming that they had purchased important mining resources, and their share prices immediately skyrocketed.
Gale had made 800 million with this split and reorganization.
It was a win-win situation.
The only people who made a loss were investors.
However, even for them, the prices of their shares had increased.
Through this incident, Jasper came to believe that Gale was undoubtably Haddock Chamber of Commerce’s most important figure. The old man had managed to use ruthlessness and craftiness to maximize his profits in Haddock Chamber of Commerce.
“You are putting your guard up against dear old me, aren’t you, sly child?” Gale’s chuckle drifted over from the other end of the line.
Jasper decided he might as well sit down again for this phone call and replied with a bright smile, “Old Master Hurlbutt, you prefer working on yourself and sitting down to enjoy the world around you. But I’m still young and I like moving around and wreaking havoc. We’re different people, so there’s no trust between us, nor is there any need to keep up our guard.”
Gale chuckled and replied, “There is no need to plot, sly child. I came looking for you this time with a specific goal in mind. I suppose you have forgotten your position, haven’t you?”
Jasper asked confusedly, “What position, Old Master Hurlbutt?”
“Hmph. You are still the Vice President of the Haddock Chamber of Commerce’s Waterhoof City Branch. You agreed to take this position back then, yet you have not walked through the Waterhoof City Branch doors even once. Does it not hurt your conscience to lie to an old man who is already living out his last years?”
Jasper pretended to be shocked as he replied, “I’m innocent, Old Master Hurlbutt. I’ve just been too busy lately…”
“Alright. I did not come to hear your excuses. Something has occurred at the Chamber of Commerce. We need you there.”
Life at the Top Chapter 1037
Jasper immediately raised his guard when he heard Gale say this.
“Do tell, Old Master Hurlbutt. I’m listening,” Jasper spoke.
Glare harrumphed when he heard Jasper clench his jaw but not promise to deal with the matter.
Any of his countless students in the Haddock Chamber of Commerce at this moment would be promising and swearing on their lives to deal with the matter well if he gave them the chance to work for him.
Yet, Jasper always acted as if Gale was ready to hurt him at any given time.
“An asset forum conference will be held in two days and I need you to attend it as the Haddock Chamber of Commerce’s representative,” Gale went straight to the point.
“The Teo Chamber of Commerce is holding the conference. Though based over at Cavern City, they decided to hold the conference in Waterhoof City, in Haddock’s Chamber of Commerce’s territory. They even sent invitations with great fanfare.
“That is why the Waterhoof City Branch will have to send out someone powerful to represent us.”
“However, there is no one suitable for the role over at the branch. I have given it some thought and you are the only one who can do it.”
Jasper frowned slightly at Gale’s words.
“Old Master Hurlbutt, I made it clear when I agreed to take the role as Vice President of the Chamber. I’m just here in name and I won’t interfere or participate in any of the specific businesses of the Chamber. I’m not a businessperson from Haddock, after all. It wouldn’t be right of me to attend this conference.
“This asset forum conference is essentially a fight between the Teo and Haddock Chambers of Commerce, it wouldn’t be suitable for a youth like me to join in.”
Gale seemed to have anticipated Jasper’s rejection and answered calmly, “You also agreed that you would take on the responsibility and work of a Vice President of the Chamber. I would not have asked you to assume the position otherwise.
“The only reason why the Teo Chamber of Commerce would dare to hold an asset forum conference in Waterhoof City is because they realized that the Haddock Chamber of Commerce is currently left without a strong leader.
“I am already old and there is only a handful of successful ones in the next generation, none of which are in Waterhoof City. Meanwhile, the generation after that has yet to grow up and establish themselves.
“A fight between chambers of commerce is large and it involves the interests of countless people. This is why the Waterhoof City Branch must send someone to attend, and the representative must win as well. You are the only one suited for the job.”
Jasper did not want to charge into this battle as Gale’s pawn, so he wanted to reject him immediately.
However, Gale continued before Jasper could speak.
“I’ll owe you a favor after this.”
Jasper immediately changed his mind after this.
Gale was a crafty man, but he kept his promises. This was evident from the situation with the Hull family.
Gale had helped the man even though it risked others mocking him for shamelessly bullying someone weaker.
All because he owed that family a favor.
During crucial times, a favor from someone like Gale could result in unexpected outcomes.
“I can go and do my part, but I have a small request. The Waterhoof City branch is not to cause me any more problems in the future,” Jasper spoke.
Jasper did not forget that after getting rid of the Hull family, Haddock Chamber of Commerce’s Waterhoof City Branch still had the Gardner family lying in wait.
Over there, Norman had assumed the position of president.
“Alright,” Gale understood what Jasper was implying and replied calmly, “Whoever causes trouble you from now on will also be causing trouble to me.”
“I’m relieved to hear that, Old Master Hurlbutt,” Jasper smiled.
“Hmph. It won’t be easy owning a favor from me, sly child. I’ll have the branch send you information about the asset forum conference later. Treat it seriously, or I won’t be the only one in despair. You’d be making a fool out of yourself too.”
Life at the Top Chapter 1038
Gale was evidently not in a good mood, so he hung up the phone right after.
It was almost time to clock out once the two calls were done.
Jasper went to fetch Wendy and the two soon returned home together.
Dawson was also home when they arrived at the house.
“You’ve helped me a lot with that 1 billion worth of funds, Uncle Schuler. But I might still need a little longer before I can pay you back next month,” Jasper spoke as he walked into the house with Dawson.
In reality, Jasper had borrowed the 1 billion investment into Abbylon from his future father-in-law…
Dawson waved him off and replied, “Take your time. You know how it is with the supermarket industry. The last things we lack are stores and cash. Not to mention that this money is going to belong to you two one day. I’m just handing it to you early.”
Jasper chuckled and did not decline. “Alright, then I’ll take this as an investment. Give me another month and I’ll make some big money. I should be able to pay you back two-fold if nothing goes wrong.”
While Dawson did not mind giving Jasper 1 billion Somer Dollars, his eyebrows still arched when he heard the younger man’s claim.
Dawson knew how Jasper had made his first fortune, so he immediately understood what Jasper meant by making big money.
“Be careful. The financial capital industry is no different from a huge legal gambling table. No one can promise to win forever,” Dawson reminded.
Jasper smiled and said, “I know. I won’t act without absolute certainty.”
Dawson nodded when he heard this. “Good. I’ve never had to worry about this when it comes to you.”
The family of three and Tiffany soon had dinner together.
After dinner, Jasper then called Tiffany to the study.
“I still have to wash the cutlery, Jasper,” Tiffany spoke softly.
Jasper replied with a crescent-eyed smile, “That can wait. You seemed preoccupied over dinner, as though you had something on your mind. You can always talk to me about it if you want, or your big sis Schuler if you’re uncomfortable talking to me about it.
“Also, have you decided on the thing I suggested to you last time? About going to university?”
Tiffany’s finger gripped her clothes when she heard him and she replied softly, “This is actually what I’ve been thinking about… I want to go to university, Jasper.”
Tiffany mustered up the courage to say the last bit.
“But I feel like I’m owing you too much, Jasper. I, it makes me feel uneasy.”
Jasper sighed lightly at Tiffany’s words.
“I understand what you are feeling, but I told you before, I’m just lending the money to you, and you’re going to have to pay me back in the end. Therefore, you don’t have to feel like you owe me.”
Tiffany replied in a conflicted tone, “But why are you so good to me when you have no reason to, Jasper?”
“Would you believe me if I said you reminded me of someone from the past?” Jasper asked.
Tiffany was stunned and she blinked in slight confusion.
“Don’t overthink it. Since you’ve already decided, then I’ll arrange it for you. I’ll be taking a trip to Waterhoof City tomorrow anyway, and I’ll be in contact with Hoofmorn University. So, I’ll help you contact them for your enrolment,” Jasper smiled.
Tiffany gaped in shock. “Hoofmorn University? That’s the fifth-best university in the country, Jasper. Is that even possible?”
“Superpowers exist in this world, and one of them is called having money.” Jasper chuckled.
Life at the Top Chapter 1039
“Thank you, Jasper.”
Tiffany suddenly got up and gave Jasper a deep bow.
Jasper instinctively went up to stop her, but he immediately backtracked after taking the first step. Standing in place, he accepted Tiffany’s bow.
He knew that not accepting would only make Tiffany feel more uneasy. Hence, he might as well accept it since it would make Tiffany feel better.
Indeed, the girl exhaled in relief after bowing as she beamed brightly at Jasper.
“Just tell me how much money I used when the time comes, Jasper. I’ll calculate a total and write an IOU. I’ll start working after graduation so that I can pay you back.”
“I won’t charge you interest, but you will need to pay the principal back,” Jasper replied with a crescent-eyed smile.
Tiffany nodded enthusiastically when she heard this.
Just then, the study room doors were opened.
“What are you two talking about? I heard something about an IOU?” Wendy asked, walking into the room.
“Jasper said he’ll help me enroll in a university, so I’ll write an IOU for Jasper and you, Big Sis Schuler,” Tiffany spoke softly.
Wendy glanced at Jasper intently and said, “It’s great that you want to study. Is there a major you’re interested in?”
Jasper facepalmed when she said this. Wendy was indeed more detailed than he was when it came to things like this. All he thought of was to enroll Tiffany in a university, but he totally forgot to ask her what she wanted to major in.”
Considering Tiffany’s personality, she would only force herself to study if it was a major she did not like. This would go against Jasper’s original intention.
“Can I study law?” Tiffany asked.
Wendy’s eye lit up and she spoke, “Law’s a major overlooked by many people, so it’s in dire need of great talents. Having a law degree would also help you greatly in your future career.”
“I don’t see why not. If you can pass the judicial examination when you graduate, it’d help you greatly whether you go on to assume a legal position in a company, becoming a lawyer in a law firm, or even being a government official.
“I have no desire to work for the government or to be a lawyer, but I will take the judicial and bar exam. I want to work in your company’s legal team,” Tiffany spoke bravely.
Jasper smiled. “You’re ambitious, that’s great. Not to mention that JW’s current legal team is still very weak, so it’ll definitely need strengthening in the future. Even so, it isn’t easy taking the judicial examination. Are you confident about this?”
Tiffany replied embarrassedly, “I love law. I even have half the general rules of Civil Law memorized. I’m confident.”
After talking for a little longer, Tiffany excused herself.
Tiffany had just left when Wendy narrowed her eyes and walked over to stand in front of Jasper.
Wendy and Jasper stood very close together, to the point that they could feel the other’s breaths on their faces.
However, Wendy was not flirting with Jasper now as she had questions to ask.
Jasper could also feel that Wendy was slightly pissed, and he smiled drily, “Why are you looking at me like that?”
“Are you guilty?” Wendy asked.
Jasper replied solemnly, “Why would I feel guilty when I didn’t do anything wrong?”
“You’re guilty,” Wendy narrowed her eyes and spoke with certainty.
“Or you wouldn’t be acting like this.
“Tell me, what are your plans with Tiffany?”
Jasper replied exasperatedly when he heard this, “She’s just a young lady who came out to work after high school. I sympathize with her family background so I want to help where I can. What other plans could I have?”
Wendy looked at Jasper suspiciously and said, “No, I can tell that your reaction was different the first time you met Tiffany. It’s like you’ve known her long ago, but Tiffany doesn’t seem to remember you at all.
“Jasper you flirt, this isn’t one of those amnesiac female-lead Conreana dramas, is it?”
Jasper let out a sigh. “What a vivid imagination you have. Say there is a female lead, it’d still be you, no?”
“Hmph.”
Wendy seemed to be satisfied with Jasper’s reply for she answered, “Don’t even think about Tiffany in that way. She’s too young and clueless.”
“I wouldn’t think about her that way even if she wasn’t clueless,” Jasper shook his head, “Don’t you what kind of person I am?”
“I do know, which is also why I’m giving you this talk to deter you,” Wendy spoke firmly.
When he recalled Anna and Celine, Jasper immediately surrendered and could not refute.
“Moving on, help me pack two outfits, would you?” Mr. Laine immediately changed the subject.
As expected, Wendy was stunned for a moment before she snapped back to attention. “Where are you going?”
“I have to take a trip to Waterhoof City tomorrow. There are quite a few things I have to do so it might take a few days. I also have to go check on the skyscraper. The construction team there asked me to come up with a name for the building. Any suggestions?”
Jasper asked.
Wendy titled her head and thought about it, “The tallest building in the world, huh. JW Tower? Wait, no, this building is supposed to be a landmark, it’s best the building doesn’t scream JW.”
“Yeah,” Jasper agreed. “The skyscraper’s model is already beyond what can be considered as part of the company’s ancillary assets. It has to be treated as an independent asset.
“The most important aspect of this building is its overall influence, so it’ll need an independent name, one that best has nothing to do with JW if possible.
“Take a look at how the previous tallest buildings in the world were named. There’s a reason none of them are named with any reference to their parent enterprises.
“It’ll limit the building’s potential once it’s named according to the enterprise, and it’ll also influence the types of tenants willing to rent lots in it. No one wants their office address to be under another company’s name.”
“Then how about the World Financial Center?” Wendy suggested.
“I think there were similar buildings in global financial centers overseas.
“Moreover, I think it’ll do both JW and Waterhoof City good to give off the impression as though our building is the only financial center in the country. Since it implies that Waterhoof City is comparable to the long-standing large financial cities in the west.”
“Sounds good,” Jasper smiled, “Still, I worry that this name is a little too grand. I’ll discuss with the people in Waterhoof City later, but it should be fine. Who else is deserving of such a name if not the tallest building in the world, right?”
“I’ll go pack your outfits then. Are you leaving tomorrow?” Wendy asked as she stood up.
“Tomorrow morning,” Jasper nodded.
Life at the Top Chapter 1040
Jasper and Julian left early the next morning, taking the Bentley as they made their way to Waterhoof City.
“Jul, I heard from Wendy that your sister’s been trying to set you up for blind dates recently?”
Jasper suddenly thought of something as they entered the highway, so he asked Julian with a subtle smile on his face.
Julian was in a great mood this morning, but his expression immediately darkened at the mention of dating.
Jasper and Julian had known each other for quite some time and their relationship was more akin to friendship than that of an employer and employee. Hence, there were fewer inhibitions between the duo’s private conversations.
Julian immediately began to complain, “I already told my sister that I don’t want to start dating so soon, let alone get married. I don’t even know what she’s searching for.
“You’re the only son of the Lager family. Elder sisters tend to take up the role of the mother in the family too, so of course she’d worry for you,” Jasper answered.
Julian sighed and complained, “I’m busy with work and I don’t have the kind of time to deal with those girls. They can be so demanding sometimes I might as well train with what little remaining time I have.”
Jasper replied irritably, “Will training continue your family bloodline? Will training find you a doting wife?
“Getting married and having children is something everyone has to experience. Sometimes people just need the company of their other half; it’s different from the company of friends and family.”
Julian grumbled at Jasper’s words, “I’ll just see where fate takes me. I’ve actually met a few girls but none of them felt right. These girls only came to me because I worked by your side, Jasper. They come with ulterior motives.”
“You’re making a few hundred thousand annually, so you should have quite a bit saved up, right?” Jasper smiled.
Julian chuckled innocently and replied, “My sister’s the one saving my money for me. I heard I’ve made over a million now.”
Julian could be regarded as a small wealthy local man with more than a million Somer Dollars in savings in the year 2000.
“That’s nice. Your sister’s got quite the talent in managing money. This will be your savings allocated to marriage and dating.
“But as you said, let fate decide. Who knows, maybe you’ll find someone you like just around the corner. Tell me if you need my help one day. I’ll be your wingman.” Jasper laughed out loud.
The two continued to talk, and in a few hours, they had exited the highway and entered the overpass leading to Waterhoof City.
“Jasper, are we going to the hotel or somewhere else first?” Julian asked.
“To the construction site of the skyscraper first. We can have lunch around the area before we get to work in the afternoon,” Jasper replied.
Julian then changed directions and made their way to Waterhoof City city center.
This construction of the skyscraper was no secret in Waterhoof City.
Relatively capable companies and individuals all knew about it, as well as anyone who simply asked around. They would immediately learn that some large company’s owner wanted to build the tallest building in the world. As envious as these people often were, they were also fascinated to learn that Somerland had produced such hidden talents.
After all, not everyone could construct the tallest building in the world just because they wanted to.
Soon, even commonfolk had gotten wind of the construction, and Waterhoof City quickly became abuzz with news of the construction.
People who were more well-informed immediately took the opportunity to spread the little bits of gossip they knew.
Something about the construction party being a trust-fund child from a formidable family, or about a fight involving a huge amount of backing behind each party, and rumors about something some powerful person did amidst all of this.
Gossip rapidly spread through the city.
Despite all this, the undisputable fact was that the tallest building in the world being built in their city was something to be proud of.