Ch. 451..460
Life at the Top Chapter 451
The Turner family seemed to understand that too, which was why they had not even bothered to transfer the accounts.
They had also kickstarted the registration process for their newest company, which would be approved shortly.
“Both the local faction and Harbor City’s business groups have their eyes on the construction project for the Olympic stadium. However, the project has not been formally established yet. The most anyone can do now is wait.”
Jasper and Zachary were sitting in the study, exchanging their views on the current situation in Swallow Capital.
Zachary nodded and said, “Not bad. That’s what we considered too, which is why we’ve only just registered our company. There’s no need for operations yet. When the project is formally established and tenders are open to the public, that’s when conflicts will erupt.”
Jasper sighed. “It’ll take at most one year and at least half a year. That’s when things will start to get interesting. The year is quickly approaching an end, and there shouldn’t be anything else happening.”
Zachary smiled as he said, “We plan to return to Harbor City tomorrow.”
Jasper asked in surprise, “What are your plans for here?”
Zachary answered, “Not much is happening here now, but a lot is going on in Harbor City. Many things can’t function if I’m not present. Besides, Old Master Law is getting old now and is no longer accustomed to spending long periods away from home.”
Jasper smiled and said, “You’re right. The air quality in Swallow Capital is not great. It’s not a place suitable for Old Master Law to spend long periods in.”
“I’m planning to have Henry take over the investments I made in the Mainland. Old Master Law, Anna, and I will take a plane back tomorrow. The three other families will be doing the same,” Zachary said.
Jasper smiled. “He should have matured quite a bit after what happened this time.”
Zachary lowered his voice and said, “I know Henry. He’s not stupid, but his heart’s just not in the right place. I deliberately did not place pressure upon the Turner family this time round so Henry can remember his lesson!
“We’ll have to fight against the Turner family in either a year or in six months, whenever the project goes public. However, I can’t deal with Erik personally. This is something Henry has to take care of himself.
“It’ll be good for him if he can get revenge, but if he can’t, he’ll have to admit his shortcomings and return to his life as a rich kid in Harbor City. He won’t be allowed to embarrass himself publicly anymore.”
Jasper said seriously, “The Turner family don’t have much to talk about in terms of benefits either. All Erik got were garbage shares worth absolutely nothing in a shell corporation. As for the project proposal, it was rendered useless the minute it got leaked. Neither we nor the Turner family will be able to use it again.
“This is merely to comfort them psychologically.”
Zachary nodded and patted Jasper’s shoulder. “Luckily we had you around this time. Else, the Law family would have embarrassed themselves thoroughly.”
Jasper said sincerely, “It’s my responsibility. In both love and reason, I will never abandon or ignore the family.”
…
The next day, the Law family had a plane to catch in the afternoon. Jasper spent the morning talking to Old Master Law and left when he began to grow tired.
Jasper had just left the room when he met Anna.
“I’m going abroad for further training next week and might not be back for New Year’s,” Anna said softly as she stood in front of Jasper. She lifted strands of hair off her face with her hand.
“I’ll go visit you,” Jasper said.
Anna laughed softly. “You’re not scared that your girlfriend will be jealous?”
“I’ll bring her along,” Jasper said after a moment’s thought.
Anna stared at Jasper in shock. “You’ve got some nerve. Do you find it particularly exciting to cheat on your girlfriend when she’s right in front of you?”
Anna had just finished speaking playfully when the man in front of her took a step forward and got even closer to her.
The height difference between them was immediately highlighted. Anna had her back against the wall and had no room to retreat. Jasper was merely a few inches away from her.
The man’s strong body and steady breathing caused Anna to become flustered.
They were so close that she could even hear not just her heartbeat but also his heartbeat.
Their hearts were so close to each other.
She felt her chin being lifted upward flirtatiously. Anna was forced to raise her head, her gaze directly meeting Jasper’s eyes.
Jasper’s gaze was domineering as he stared at Anna and said slowly, “Did you think I can’t make you submit to me?”
Life at the Top Chapter 452
Jasper’s unexpected movements caused Anna to unconsciously tense her body.
She tried instinctively to push Jasper away, but when she put her arms on Jasper’s chest, she realized that the little strength she had was not enough to push the man away.
Their warm breaths caused Anna to become even more flustered. Instinctively, she lowered her eyes and did not dare to make eye contact with Jasper.
“What, what are you doing? Let me go!”
Anna was mortified at how soft and tender her voice sounded.
It was supposed to be a strict statement, but it sounded weak and helpless when she said it. Conversely, it even sounded as if she was only pretending to resist.
“Are you scared?”
When he noticed the dramatic changes in Anna’s mood, Jasper leaned over slightly and chuckled as he whispered into Anna’s ear.
Anna felt Jasper’s warm breaths envelop her ear as he whispered.
The man’s burning aura made its way right into her ear.
When she felt his aura, Anna felt her limbs turn into jelly. There was no strength left in them.
Anna felt her heart racing as her entire body, particularly her face, turned warm. She did not need a mirror to know she was burning red.
Then, without knowing where she had gotten the courage from, Anna pushed Jasper away.
Jasper took two steps backward and smirked as he gazed at Anna.
The latter was panting as if she had suddenly gotten fresh oxygen again after being deprived of it.
Her cheeks were rosy, and her eyes reflected light like a lake at sunset.
She was so stunningly beautiful that the whole world stopped to look at her.
That was how Anna looked like now.
“Do you have a death wish?!” Anna glared at Jasper, but she knew she looked anything but threatening right now.
For some inexplicable reason, she had lost her dominating edge. Not only had Jasper managed to take advantage of that, but most importantly, she had failed to live up to her expectations.
He managed to break through all her defenses, and she was unable to even fight back.
It was a source of annoyance for Anna.
Anna turned and ran off after giving Jasper one last glare.
She seemed as if she were escaping from him.
Jasper watched her run off before he raised a hand to his nose. Hmm, her smell was still on it.
He had not suffered major losses this time!
He had to make sure the little vixen learned her lesson sometime soon.
Else, she was going to climb right over his head.
He could treat a woman with wholehearted kindness, but he would never be a lapdog.
That was Jasper’s motto. He had enough of being a lapdog in his past life. After being given a second chance at things after losing everything he had due to being a lapdog, Jasper was determined to never take the same path as in his past life.
…
It was not clear if it was because she was embarrassed or angry, but Anna refused to meet Jasper’s eyes even when it was time for her and her family to board the plane.
Jasper sighed as he watched the plane carrying the Law family soar into the clouds.
Regardless, matters at Swallow Capital had come to an end.
The Turner family had not yet been taken care of, however. Erik Turner was still eyeing them covetously.
Life at the Top Chapter 453
However, this was inevitable. The Turner family of Swallow Capital could not be compared to other smaller families. They had way more tricks up their sleeves than Jasper currently did.
Thus, if one wanted to get rid of Erik Turner, they would not be able to do that within a day.
All they could do was take their time laying things out.
Jasper had the advantage of reincarnation on his side. The rate at which his wealth increased was bound to exceed everyone’s expectations. It would not take long before Jasper no longer needed to pay attention to these families.
“Will you continue staying at Swallow Capital?” Jasper asked Henry.
Henry’s face radiated delight as he said happily, “There are still a few processes the newest branch office has to complete, so I’ll be here for a while longer. I can only leave when everything has been taken care of.”
“I’ll be returning to Southeast Province soon. Come meet up with me once you’re done with business here. The Southface River project we collaborated on is almost done but I need you to look over some developmental details before we can wrap things up,” Jasper said instructively.
Henry pouted as he said, “Can’t you make the decisions? I don’t understand anything anyway. I sort of want to spend a few more days in Swallow Capital—”
“Swallow Capital is a messy place. Not only should you leave as soon as possible, but you should ensure you don’t get into any trouble during the time you have to stay here. Both Old Master Law and your dad have left, so no one can protect you anymore,” Jasper said as he frowned.
Henry raised an eyebrow as he said disdainfully, “So what? Since when has Henry Law required protecting when he goes to hang out?”
“How wonderful of you. Should we pay the Turner family another visit? I heard you were very high and mighty the last time you delivered them the invitation,” Jasper said calmly.
“…” The corners of Henry’s mouth twitched before he grumbled, “F*ck, it’s hard for me to deal with that idiot Erik when we’re in his homeland. I’m not being a coward this time, I’m just making a strategic decision to back off.”
“It’s good that you know to back off,” Jasper answered calmly.
“By the time you arrive at Southeast Province and do the last bit of work for the project, the year will have ended. When the New Year celebrations end and spring arrives, we can encash the project. We’re pressed for time, so not a single second can be wasted.”
“When are you leaving?” Henry asked.
Jasper thought for a moment before answering, “Probably tonight. There’s nothing left to take care of here and I haven’t returned to my company in the province for months. There’s a ton of paperwork waiting for me.”
Henry clicked his tongue as he said, “I don’t understand what you people are thinking. What’s the point of earning so much money when you don’t enjoy life and work yourself so hard that you can’t tell the days from the nights? You should enjoy life while you still have the time to do so!”
Jasper could not be bothered to pay any attention to the fool with twisted views.
…
After bidding farewell to those he had connections with in Swallow Capital and taking care of everything else, Jasper took a plane and left Swallow Capital.
Erik received that piece of news the minute Jasper left.
“What about Henry Law? Has he left too?” Erik asked.
The confidant who had come bearing the news answered respectfully, “No.”
Erik laughed coolly as he said, “Ignore Jasper for now since he has left. Someone will naturally cause trouble for him. As for Henry, arrange for someone to spy on him 24/7. Report to me immediately if anything happens.”
“Yes, Young Master Turner,” the confidant replied before leaving.
When silence returned to the room, Erik picked up the phone.
“Mr. Hull, it’s me, Erik.
“I just received news that Jasper has left Swallow Capital. You should set any plans you have in motion as soon as possible.
“Don’t worry, I’ll do my best to assist you in any way you require. However, this is still a grudge that’s between you and Jasper in the end. It’s not suitable for the Turner family to make a direct appearance for various reasons. I’m sure you understand.
“Alright, I’ll await your good news.”
Erik laughed loudly after he hung up the phone.
He had received a call from Ian and Norman last night indicating their intentions to launch an attack against Jasper.
This was right up Erik’s alley. Naturally, he supported them fully.
Jasper was going to suffer major losses if he got these two powerful puppets to do his work for him.
Erik narrowed his eyes slightly as he mumbled, “Just wait and see, Jasper Laine. Soon you’ll have to kneel in front of me and repent for everything you’ve done!”
Life at the Top Chapter 454
The plane landed smoothly at Province Airport.
Jasper had not informed anyone of his return this time. On one hand, he did not think Wendy needed to travel to the airport to pick him up. On the other hand, he wanted to give Wendy a surprise as well.
Jasper hailed a cab and traveled to the villas at Thornton Park. Jasper was going home.
“Mom, I’m back,” Jasper said tiredly as he entered the house.
“Why didn’t you tell me in advance? Hurry, go take a rest.” Sally came to the door and took Jasper’s luggage from him. When she placed it aside, she asked warmly, “Have you eaten yet?”
“I just got back from Swallow Capital. I ate on the plane,” Jasper smiled as he answered.
Sally immediately turned and walked toward the kitchen when she heard that. She said, “That must mean you haven’t had a full meal. I’ll cook you some noodles.”
Jasper knew his mom’s personality. She would nag him endlessly if he did not eat that bowl of noodles, which was why he did not bother stopping her.
Jasper followed Sally to the kitchen and stood at the door, asking, “Where’s Dad?”
“A distant relative of his passed away, so he went to attend the funeral. He won’t be back for another two days,” Sally answered while she bustled around the kitchen.
Jasper smiled. “Are you used to living here?”
“It’s fine here, but I don’t know that many people so it’s kind of quiet,” Sally sighed as she spoke.
“Even though I got to know a couple of tenants my age around here, they have to take care of their grandchildren and don’t have much time to talk to me and ease my boredom. I feel so envious when I look at their grandchildren. They’re so tiny and cute.”
There was a hidden meaning in Sally’s words.
As she spoke, she glanced at Jasper, trying to convey what she was not saying in words.
Jasper said with difficulty, “Well then, you’ll have to continue being envious. I don’t plan to have kids anytime soon.”
Jasper’s career was taking off now, and he was growing busier and busier by the day. He needed to focus all his energy on his work.
Furthermore, he was not even that old. He had not even begun considering marriage, let alone children…
Sally scowled as she said, “You’re not that young anymore. Wendy is a good girl. You two should hurry up and tie the knot and have kids soon. I can take care of the child while you two work on whatever you need to. Isn’t that a good idea? How long are you going to drag this on for?!
“Are you going to wait until I’m so old that I can’t take care of the children anymore?”
Jasper answered, “That’s fine. We’ll just get a nanny.”
Sally nearly threw her spatula at Jasper’s head. “Nonsense! Do you think a nanny can take better care of a child than me? I’m the kid’s grandma. How could I let someone else take care of my grandchild?”
Jasper smiled bitterly. “We haven’t even begun talking about that. I’ll try my best, alright…”
After he wolfed down his noodles, Jasper immediately bounded out of his chair and ran out the door. He crept over to the villa where Wendy stayed.
Jasper had been planning to give Wendy a surprise, but he had not expected Wendy to not be at home today.
She had gone over to Dawson’s place.
“My dad’s blood pressure has been rather high lately and he hasn’t been feeling well. I came over to take care of him.” Wendy chuckled as she held the phone to her ear and spoke to Jasper.
“You silly thing. You should have just told me you were coming back.”
Jasper sat in the empty villa and sighed as he said, “I wanted to surprise you… Is your dad alright?”
“He’s fine. The doctor said it’s caused by extreme stress and an irregular sleep schedule. He just needs to rest,” Wendy said gently.
Jasper massaged his forehead as he said, “He’s been really busy lately. The supermarket had a large expansion recently, and he’s in charge of the real estate business too. I’ll hire some people to assist him when I have time so that he can relax.”
“I brought it up before, but he refused. He said he doesn’t trust anyone to take care of the business while it’s still in the early stages. He’s been doing everything himself. Besides, I think there’s been some trouble going on in the Southface River project,” Wendy sighed as she said.
Life at the Top Chapter 455
The plane landed smoothly at Province Airport.
Jasper had not informed anyone of his return this time. On one hand, he did not think Wendy needed to travel to the airport to pick him up. On the other hand, he wanted to give Wendy a surprise as well.
Jasper hailed a cab and traveled to the villas at Thornton Park. Jasper was going home.
“Mom, I’m back,” Jasper said tiredly as he entered the house.
“Why didn’t you tell me in advance? Hurry, go take a rest.” Sally came to the door and took Jasper’s luggage from him. When she placed it aside, she asked warmly, “Have you eaten yet?”
“I just got back from Swallow Capital. I ate on the plane,” Jasper smiled as he answered.
Sally immediately turned and walked toward the kitchen when she heard that. She said, “That must mean you haven’t had a full meal. I’ll cook you some noodles.”
Jasper knew his mom’s personality. She would nag him endlessly if he did not eat that bowl of noodles, which was why he did not bother stopping her.
Jasper followed Sally to the kitchen and stood at the door, asking, “Where’s Dad?”
“A distant relative of his passed away, so he went to attend the funeral. He won’t be back for another two days,” Sally answered while she bustled around the kitchen.
Jasper smiled. “Are you used to living here?”
“It’s fine here, but I don’t know that many people so it’s kind of quiet,” Sally sighed as she spoke.
“Even though I got to know a couple of tenants my age around here, they have to take care of their grandchildren and don’t have much time to talk to me and ease my boredom. I feel so envious when I look at their grandchildren. They’re so tiny and cute.”
There was a hidden meaning in Sally’s words.
As she spoke, she glanced at Jasper, trying to convey what she was not saying in words.
Jasper said with difficulty, “Well then, you’ll have to continue being envious. I don’t plan to have kids anytime soon.”
Jasper’s career was taking off now, and he was growing busier and busier by the day. He needed to focus all his energy on his work.
Furthermore, he was not even that old. He had not even begun considering marriage, let alone children…
Sally scowled as she said, “You’re not that young anymore. Wendy is a good girl. You two should hurry up and tie the knot and have kids soon. I can take care of the child while you two work on whatever you need to. Isn’t that a good idea? How long are you going to drag this on for?!
“Are you going to wait until I’m so old that I can’t take care of the children anymore?”
Jasper answered, “That’s fine. We’ll just get a nanny.”
Sally nearly threw her spatula at Jasper’s head. “Nonsense! Do you think a nanny can take better care of a child than me? I’m the kid’s grandma. How could I let someone else take care of my grandchild?”
Jasper smiled bitterly. “We haven’t even begun talking about that. I’ll try my best, alright…”
After he wolfed down his noodles, Jasper immediately bounded out of his chair and ran out the door. He crept over to the villa where Wendy stayed.
Jasper had been planning to give Wendy a surprise, but he had not expected Wendy to not be at home today.
She had gone over to Dawson’s place.
“My dad’s blood pressure has been rather high lately and he hasn’t been feeling well. I came over to take care of him.” Wendy chuckled as she held the phone to her ear and spoke to Jasper.
“You silly thing. You should have just told me you were coming back.”
Jasper sat in the empty villa and sighed as he said, “I wanted to surprise you… Is your dad alright?”
“He’s fine. The doctor said it’s caused by extreme stress and an irregular sleep schedule. He just needs to rest,” Wendy said gently.
Jasper massaged his forehead as he said, “He’s been really busy lately. The supermarket had a large expansion recently, and he’s in charge of the real estate business too. I’ll hire some people to assist him when I have time so that he can relax.”
“I brought it up before, but he refused. He said he doesn’t trust anyone to take care of the business while it’s still in the early stages. He’s been doing everything himself. Besides, I think there’s been some trouble going on in the Southface River project,” Wendy sighed as she said.
Life at the Top Chapter 456
Dawson nodded in satisfaction when he saw how confident Jasper was.
“If you’re in the business world, you’ll meet all sorts of people, including royalty and smugglers. Competition among your peers is inevitable.
“It might be healthy competition among businesses, or it might be malicious competition with intent to suppress. There’s no way you’ll be the only person in an industry. Competition exists as long as you have peers.
“Competition itself is not scary, but you should always ensure you never underestimate your enemy and confuse yourself. No matter who the competition is, you must make sure you have a thorough understanding of them before fighting against them. Your mindset is the most important thing here.”
Dawson gave his diligent advice and said kindly, “If you’re going to take matters into your own hands, I can help by contributing ideas, but most of it will be up to you to handle.”
Jasper understood that Dawson was giving him a chance to gain more experience in fighting business battles, which was why he did not modestly decline. He smiled and said, “Alright, you should take this time to rest up. I’ll come to you if I face any further problems.”
Dawson smiled and said, “You’ve already proved your ability and vision in making money. You’re much more powerful than anyone I’ve ever met, but you still need a little practice in business battles. I’ll help keep an eye on things while I still can. You don’t need to worry.”
Dawson’s phone rang while he was still talking.
It was a phone call from the executives at JW Real Estate.
A moment later, Dawson hung up the phone. He had a grim expression on his face.
“The people from Waterhoof City are quite aggressive.”
Wendy hurriedly asked, “What’s wrong? What did they say?”
Dawson said, “The person in charge from Nauritus City’s government just called. Something about how the company that wants to develop the south bank intends to have contact with me because they plan to build a bridge across Southface River that will connect the south and north banks.”
“Build a bridge? Isn’t that what the city government is supposed to do? Since when were companies in charge of that? Our main goal as a real estate company is to earn money, and a bridge would cost a billion dollars at least. Why should we fund this?” Wendy asked indignantly.
Dawson smiled as he said, “Nauritius City’s government thinks it’ll definitely be a good thing if the south bank is developed as well. Not only will it build a better image for themselves, but they’ll also be able to boost the economy on the north bank, which is relatively backward as of this moment. There’s no reason why they wouldn’t want us to collaborate.
“This bridge is probably one of the things the real estate agents at Waterhoof City used to tempt the city hall.”
Jasper laughed lightly as he said, “How calculating of them. They’ll be the only ones gaining benefits from this bridge, but they want us to fund a portion of it as well. In the end, we’ll have paid for nothing while they get all the credit. Do they think everyone else is a fool?”
Dawson nodded. He was deeply impressed.
He said in a low voice, “But either way, developing the north bank is a project that neither Nauritius City’s government nor the Southeast Province City’s government can reject as it will boost their economy. We’ve already gotten the shorter end of the stick.”
“It doesn’t matter. They can approach us all they like. When will that happen?” Jasper asked.
If Ian and Norman were going to drive up to his door, there was no reason for Jasper to cower behind the door.
Thus, Jasper had never considered rejecting the approach.
“This afternoon at the conference room of Nauritius City’s government,” Dawson answered.
Jasper thought for a brief moment before he raised his head and said, “I’m fine with the time, but I get to decide where we meet.”
Dawson raised an eyebrow slightly.
Jasper continued saying, “We’ll set the location at the development site at the south bank of the Southface River. If we’re going to discuss the development of the south and north banks, we should do it where it’s happening. What can we discuss in an office?”
Dawson smiled and said, “Alright, that’s a good idea. That’s settled then!”
“I’ll have someone return the call immediately and inform Nauritius City’s government of our decision. Let’s eat now.”
…
Dawson was a well-known figure in Southeast Province, a territory that covered Nauritius City. When the call was made, the city hall only hesitated for a brief second before agreeing.
Jasper spent some time with Wendy before getting into the car and driving toward the development site.
Wendy did not follow along. Dawson had assigned the vice-president from the real estate company who was in charge of the Southface River project to go along with Jasper. The main reason was that an executive familiar with how the project was progressing needed to be there if any operational issues came up.
“Pleased to meet you, Mr. Laine.” The vice president was named Sean Tucker. He was an executive who Dawson had paid a hefty sum to hire from a state-owned real estate company.
Jasper smiled as he shook his hand and said, “Nice to meet you, Vice President Tucker. I’ll need to trouble you in answering any questions there might be regarding the business today. I’m not too familiar with that aspect.”
Jasper rarely made an appearance at JW Real Estate, but Sean knew the existence of this most powerful boss.
Dawson was only the CEO of the real estate company on paper. In actuality, the shares were all under Jasper’s JW Investment Company and Wendy’s name. Thus, Jasper was his actual boss in practice.
As such, Sean put on a respectful attitude as he hurriedly said, “That’s my duty. I’ll do my best.”
Dawson’s chauffeur was in charge of driving them. Usually, Jasper would have Julian act as both his bodyguard and chauffeur whenever he went out. However, Jasper had allowed Julian to take care of his sister during this time.
A bone marrow match had been found for Julian’s sister, and she would be having her operation in two days. Jasper had not only paid for everything, but he also used Dawson’s connections to form a team of the best specialists in the country to conduct the operation.
Jasper had also given Julian an additional sum of money to use to take care of his sister, Cathy.
Jasper was never stingy when it came to his subordinate’s welfare.
An employee would only be steadfastly loyal to their employer if the employer helped solve their worries. Jasper, who had been an employee for the entirety of his past life, understood that thoroughly.
The Southface River south bank project was the largest investment Southeast Province had made since its establishment. The developmental funds required for the entire project were estimated to be around 15 to 20 billion dollars. Jasper had already invested eight billion dollars into the project. He had not included the Law family’s investment of four billion dollars in that.
Even though they had not arrived yet, Jasper could see the development site in full swing as he listened to Sean’s report in the car. The site was spread across 900,000 square feet across the entire south bank.
Life at the Top Chapter 457
“The whole south bank of Southface River will undergo development. The site is about 900,000 square feet. After meeting with the planning department, our current plan is to build an integrated city center right in the center.
“That includes a Central Business District, a CBD. The CBD will include two 20-floor commercial buildings and one 40-floor office building. These three buildings will serve as the core of the district. The remaining buildings will surround it.
“In terms of lifestyle, we plan to build four neighborhoods. One high-end neighborhood, two on the poorer end of the spectrum, and one for those in the middle. There will also be two large shopping malls, two kindergartens, and one elementary, junior, and high school each.
“Other supporting facilities such as hospitals, municipal offices, and bus lines have all been allocated into the budget.”
Sean could not help but become excited as he reported to Jasper. He said, “Mr. Laine, to be honest with you, I used to work at a state-owned real estate agency where I thought I had a lot of experience.
“However, our understanding of real estate used to be nothing more than the construction of a few neighborhoods or business buildings. At the very most, we would be contracted for multiple-use buildings.
“I only realized how much one can do as a real estate agent when I saw JW Real Estate’s proposal for the Southface River project. We’re constructing a miniature city!
“The person who came up with this concept must be a genius! He’s the epitome of what it means to be in real estate. All the other real estate agencies in the country seem like small fries and not worth even a glance to me now!”
Jasper chuckled when he heard that. Naturally, he was the one who had come up with the project concept.
Literally every city in every country in the world would look like that in the future. There would not be any surprise anymore. However, when such a concept was introduced in a world 20 years before that time, Jasper would be the pioneer in the real estate industry. It was only natural that Sean was shocked.
Jasper smiled as he said, “There are still many talented individuals in this country. I merely drew on some experience I gained overseas and combined it with what the locals want to come up with this design.
“However, I’m still an amateur. This design was redone several times when it was delivered to the design institute before it got approved. You professionals will definitely have better ideas than mine once you gain some experience.”
Sean was stunned. “Mr. Laine, you designed this?!”
“Yes.” Jasper nodded as he acknowledged it.
Sean was convinced now as he said, “I finally know what it means when they say there’s always someone better than you. My old friends in the industry have been asking me who came up with the design for Southface River for the longest time. It turns out it was you, Mr. Laine.
“Mr. Laine, JW Real Estate will become famous for sure once this project is completed. The entire country will learn about us!”
As they spoke, the car pulled to a stop at the development site.
Sean had already gotten in contact with the person in charge at the site.
When the car pulled to a stop, a line of engineers and their supervisors were at the car door, fighting for the chance to open the door for Jasper.
“Greetings, Mr. Laine.”
“Welcome to the site, Mr. Laine.”
“Please come on in, Mr. Laine.”
As they all spoke to him with respect, Jasper waved his hands and said, “I just dropped by to take a look. Are the people from Nauritius City’s government here yet?”
“They’ve arrived and are having a tour of the place now,” a supervisor said.
“Bring me over,” Jasper said calmly.
…
Ian was standing with his back to the Southface River. Inwardly, he was deeply shaken as he gazed at the huge site which stretched beyond where the eye could see.
Life at the Top Chapter 458
He was not the only one. Norman, who was with him, also had a tense expression on his face.
The person standing beside them was the person in charge from Nauritius City’s government, and he sounded somewhat delighted and proud as he introduced the two to the site.
“Excluding Swallow Capital, Waterhoof City, and Cavern City, the Southface River project is the most advanced and modern city construction project in the country.
“Furthermore, it’s also currently the most important project in the province. Once this project is completed, it’ll help enhance the province in terms of the level of influence and competitiveness!
“It’s currently about 40% completed, and we estimate it’ll be fully completed by the first half of the next year!”
Norman felt annoyed as he listened to him talk.
He and Ian had not made the trip from Waterhoof City to listen to people praise Jasper’s ability!
“I would never have believed a 20-year-old boy was in charge of such a massive project if I hadn’t witnessed it with my own two eyes.”
Norman spoke in a heavy tone.
“I always thought Dawson was in charge of this. Who would have imagined that Dawson is just a supervisor while the actual mastermind is Jasper! Seems like we’ve grossly misunderstood the dynamics between Jasper and Dawson.”
Ian spoke after a long pause, “Impressive.
“If Jasper goes on like this for another ten years, I’m guessing that not even we will have the guts to challenge him anymore.”
Norman huffed as he said, “I admit that he has potential, but he’s still not that powerful compared to us now. Most importantly, look at how old he is. What tricks could he have witnessed in his lifetime? We’ll have him running circles around us if we just put a little more thought into things!”
Ian smiled. He had the same thoughts as Norman before he arrived at the site.
However, for some inexplicable reason, he had a bad feeling now as he stood with his back to the Southface River. He looked at the construction site, which was slowly revealing its majestic aura like a giant beast.
The south bank was a pearl of great price. However, was it a wise choice to develop the north bank just to get back at Jasper?
Ian’s emotions were turbulent. He felt as if he had boarded a train that had left the station and it was too late for him to get down.
Just then, the person in charge said, “Here come the people from JW Real Estate!”
Ian and Norman glanced over. They saw a crowd of people walking toward them, and among them was a young man they would recognize even if he had been burnt to crisps. He was surrounded by the rest of the people, just like how stars surrounded the moon.
Jasper strode toward them. His posture and movement conveyed his confidence.
Ian suppressed his emotions. There was no point in shying away now. The only thing he could do was fight to the death!
When Ian and Norman glanced at Jasper, he also noticed them.
Their gazes met mid-air. Electrical sparks seemed to crackle and flare in the silence.
When Jasper and his companions got nearer to them, they heard Jasper chuckling as he said, “Mr. Hull! Mr. Gardner! Why didn’t you let me know in advance that you would be making the trip here from Waterhoof City? If word got out, people would accuse me of being disrespectful and mistreating my seniors who’ve come as guests.”
Jasper’s opening statement was nothing but respectful, and he had a friendly posture as he spoke.
However, Ian and Norman were experienced. They could sense the hidden sarcasm behind Jasper’s speech.
Life at the Top Chapter 459
“This is an unfortunate misunderstanding. I initially thought Southface River was worth developing and had the south bank as my first choice. Unfortunately, luck wasn’t on our side, and the developmental rights for the south bank have already been claimed. Thus, we can only go for the second best choice now and develop the north bank.
“I never thought that you would be in charge of developing the south bank, Jasper.”
Ian had a slight smile on his face as he replied.
Jasper chuckled. “I think it’s quite a good thing. I was just thinking about how unbalanced it would be if the north bank were to be a desolate area while the south bank became a modern city after the project is finished. It’s a good thing now that your company has come forth and expressed interest in developing the north bank.”
“It’s good if you think about things that way. However, please don’t think we’re targeting anyone by coming here. We don’t mean it that way,” Ian said as he smiled.
Jasper laughed. “Of course not.”
As the two chatted and laughed, everyone else spectating could sense the hidden edge in the peaceful, jovial atmosphere.
Including Sean, everyone from JW Real Estate had a hostile look in their eyes as they looked at Ian and Norman.
It was obvious they were here to take their business away from them and launch a fight against them. How could they have come with good intentions?
The atmosphere started turning weird too.
Just then, the person in charge from Nauritius City’s government smiled and said, “Mr. Laine, you’re one of the up and coming young entrepreneurs in the province. Now that Mr. Hull and Mr. Gardner have set their hopes on the future of the north bank, it would do both parties good to cooperate.”
Jasper glanced at the person in charge and smiled slightly as he said, “We’re all just going about our own business. Of course, I would never say no to anything that would help boost the province’s economy.”
The person in charge’s face lit up when he heard that and said, “Mr. Hull and Mr. Gardner came up with a proposal some time ago. They plan to connect the north and south banks of the Southface River. A bridge will have to be built across the river to make that happen. What are your thoughts on that, Mr. Laine?”
Jasper said appreciatively, “That’s a good idea! Once the bridge is built and open for access, the north and south banks of the Southface River will be connected. That will greatly boost the economy of the north bank. Of course, I approve of it.”
Everyone’s expression changed the minute he said that.
Everyone with a clear eye could tell that Ian and Norman had suggested building a bridge so they would also receive a share in the profits earned from the development of the south bank of Southface River.
The north bank was desolate because of the Southface River. It restricted the development of the few districts there.
Even an idiot could tell that the south bank would become the new province capital once the project on the south bank was completed. It would outshine all the other areas in the province.
Thus, if the bridge was constructed, all the north bank needed to do then was sit back and look pretty to receive a share of the profits.
It did not make sense for Ian and Norman to walk away with such benefits after Jasper had invested so much money into the project.
Thus, even those from city hall were ready to watch Jasper strongly oppose and even get into a fight with Ian and Norman over the proposal.
However, Jasper surprised everyone by immediately agreeing to the idea.
“Mr. Laine, is that what you really think?” the person in charge asked.
Jasper smiled and said, “I’m from Southeast Province, and I feel responsible for the development of the province. Why would I reject a plan to further develop the province? Of course, I’m being sincere about this.”
The person in charge sighed. “Alright, alright. The heroes are becoming younger and younger. No one can match the amount of generosity you have, Mr. Laine.”
Jasper chuckled as he glanced at Ian and Norman before saying, “However, I have two tiny requests and suggestions.”
Ian and Norman, who had not spoken a word since, glanced at each other. Their hearts skipped a beat.
They knew Jasper was no idiot and there was no way he had not realized why they proposed building the bridge.
Life at the Top Chapter 460
Jasper’s straightforward attitude was causing them to feel uneasy.
However, now that Jasper had mentioned his two requests, it meant he was about to retaliate.
Ian and Norman made sure they were on high alert. They were interested in what Jasper would do.
“Please go on, Mr. Laine,” the person in charge from Nauritius City’s government waved a hand as he spoke jovially.
‘Persuading Jasper’ had been one of the items included in the task list their superior gave them. That was no easy feat.
It would be alright if the person was an average businessman as these people never dared go against the city hall. However, Jasper Laine was no ordinary businessman. Even though he was the person in charge from Nauritius City’s government, he did not have the guts to act cocky to Jasper either.
However, he had not needed to say anything before Jasper indicated his interest and cooperation. How could he not feel happy? Jasper seemed like the most handsome man in the world to him right now.
“It’s simple. Building a bridge is a good thing, and although I intend to support it, I currently have a project that requires several million dollars of payments every single day. Thus, I won’t be able to support the project financially. That’s my first request.”
Jasper had a bashful smile on his face. He looked like a young apprentice who was bashfully telling his master that he was still inexperienced and needed much more practice.
“The second one is a suggestion. My suggestion is that this bridge extends to where the Southface River meets the sea. Not only will we be able to connect the north and south banks, but we’ll also be able to reach several islands.
“You should give it your all if you’re trying to do good. The people on the islands rely on ferries to travel, and they have no roads that lead to the outside world. How are we going to boost the economy that way? You’ll benefit more people if you extend the bridge to reach the estuary.”
Norman nearly started cursing when he heard what Jasper said.
That little b*stard Jasper Laine, he was throwing them under the bus!
Norman struggled to stop himself from punching Jasper as he watched the latter smile and talk.
The main reason for constructing the bridge was to milk the popularity that the south bank would accumulate. This way, they could attract some people over to the north bank, which was a desolate, backward place.
However, it would cost a lot to build a bridge. Ian and Norman had only mentioned paying for the construction of the bridge themselves to get into the city hall’s good books.
The problem was they could not bring themselves to fork out a fund of several billion dollars from their pockets.
Thus, they had found a loophole. They would get Jasper to fund the project as well.
Norman had been so pleased with himself after coming up with that plan.
If Jasper rejected his proposal, he would be placed in a bad light with the city hall as he would seem stingy.
It would be the best if he agreed to it, like someone who drank poison to quench their thirst. It would equate to him helping develop the north bank as well.
It was a plan designed to put Jasper in a sticky situation.
Norman never imagined that Jasper would be able to resolve the situation so easily.
Not only did he refuse to fund the project, but he even proposed they extend the length of the bridge to the estuary 40 miles away? Would that not mean he and Ian would be the butt of everyone’s jokes if they failed to construct the bridge?
Would that not mean he and Ian would become the two idiots from Waterhoof City who came all the way to give the citizens of Southeast Province free benefits?
The expressions on Ian and Norman’s faces turned even uglier as Jasper finished speaking.
The person in charge from city hall also fell silent as he glanced repeatedly at the two men. He seemed to be waiting for their response.
No matter what, it was undeniable that by pulling the carpet from under their feet, Jasper had caused Ian and Norman intense pain.