Ch. 461..470

Life at the Top Chapter 461

“This is getting interesting.”

Norman said coldly, breaking the silence. He got angrier the more he thought about it.

“You’re not paying, but you’re deciding on the address. You have nothing to lose, yet we are still supposed to listen to you? What kind of logic is this?”

After hearing what he said, Jasper replied matter-of-factly, “Well, you guys want to build this bridge in front of the South Bank, yet I’m still supposed to welcome you guys happily? What kind of logic is that?”

Norman flared up in rage as his expression morphed into one of anger. “Jasper Laine, don’t be an ungrateful wretch. The construction of the Southface River Bridge has been approved by the city government due to the benefits it’ll bring to the people. Does it not hurt your conscience to reject this project because of your own personal interests?” He questioned.

“I don’t understand what you mean,” Jasper said calmly. “The construction of the Southface River Bridge is a good thing. I expressed my support for it as well. However, I suggested a location that’s more suitable for the construction. Am I going against my conscience by doing so?” He asked.

“Alright, if that’s the case, then don’t mention the construction of the Southface River Bridge in front of me ever again. Even if you are going to build it, don’t even think of touching a piece my land on the South Bank. Do you think that you can construct this bridge without my approval?” He added.

Norman’s expression darkened. “Jasper Laine, you’re just making things harder than they need to be. Do you want me to force you to do so?” He spat angrily.

“Do you think that you’re capable of forcing me to do such a thing?”

The expressions on both Norman and Ian’s faces changed after registering his words.

Ian smiled and said, “We are all associates. There’s no need to ruin our relationship over a small issue like this. Why don’t we forget about the construction of Southface River Bridge for the time being? We can proceed after you guys settle on a set of conditions that everyone agrees on.”

“There’s no need to discuss things any further. Don’t think that you can monopolize everything here, Jasper Laine. Don’t assume that I will find it impossible to destroy your project in the South Bank,” Norman said in infuriation.

“So, you want to destroy my project?”

Jasper narrowed his eyes at Norman and said in a controlled voice, “In that case, show me your capabilities. I really want to see what other tricks you can come up with other than the shady business that you’re currently involved in.”

“Jasper Laine,” Ian called out. “Young people like you shouldn’t be so hot-tempered. No matter the circumstances, Norman is still a few decades older than you. You should be more courteous toward him. Otherwise, it’d make you seem like an overbearing person,” he advised.

“You’re right, Mr. Hull.”

A faint smile tugged at Jasper’s lips as he said, “However, I’m afraid that some people might have lived their few decades in vain. He seems to think that he’s the smartest person out there, so why should I bother with courtesy?”

His words caused Ian’s expression to darken as well.

On the surface, Jasper’s words were directed at Norman. However, he was chiding Ian implicitly as well.

Beyond angered, Ian smiled. “Alright, let’s meet again then. I believe that the chance to meet will arise very soon. The project in South Bank will commence tomorrow. We will become neighbors!” He said in a frigid tone.

“In that case, I wish you prosperity,” Jasper told the both of them.

Ian and Norman snorted and left in distaste.

After they left, the person in charge of the project from the neritic zone city government smiled bitterly at Jasper. “Mr. Laine, we are in a difficult position between both parties. Please understand that our jobs aren’t easy either,” he said.

Jasper smiled and spoke to him with utmost courtesy. “Of course I do. The higher ups are in a tough position as well. All that we can do is try our best to share some of their burden,” he said.

“How about this? I’ll go back and look into it. The construction of a pedestrian greenway along the south bank of Southface River in conjunction with the government’s greening project would be a good thing for the environment and image of the provincial government. JW Real Estates will assume full responsibility on this project.”

The person in charge’s gaze lit up as he stared at Jasper in admiration.

He had seen many capable young people. However, it was his first time seeing a young man like Jasper who did things with a certain degree of constancy and pride, but not to the extent of arrogance.

He thought that Jasper would completely disregard him due to the prominence of the project on the South Bank. He could even refute some of the things the city government had decided on during his relatively hostile interaction with Ian Hull and Norman Gardner.

Life at the Top Chapter 462

However, Jasper did not do so.

He knew how to grasp the overall situation well and pinpoint exactly what the city government wanted.

A person like this was a true talent.

“Alright, I’ll tell everyone the good news at once. It’s getting late, so I won’t take up any more of your time.”

Jasper smiled. “Work is the priority. I’ll arrange for someone to drive you back,” he said.

Without the need for further instruction, Sean Tucker immediately gestured at a few of his smart-looking subordinates, and someone accompanied the person in charge out at once.

After the person in charge left, Sean told Jasper courteously, “Mr. Laine, you have such powerful methods of handling things. Take that person in charge for instance, I thought that you wouldn’t treat him nicely even if you chose not to point out that they were being greedy by trying to gain all the benefits without offending us.”

“They’re just doing it because it’s their job. He plays a minor role–the higher-ups are the ones who made the decision. Besides, the higher-ups tend to consider things from a holistic perspective, so they naturally wouldn’t care much about our benefits. It’ll be alright as long as we’re clear about what we can and cannot concede,” Jasper replied in an even tone.

“But Ian Hull and Norman Gardner were clearly targeting us this time around. Despite this, the city government still decided to give them the right to develop the north bank. I can’t help but get pissed off!” Sean complained angrily.

Jasper narrowed his eyes and looked at the undulating slopes of the north bank opposite the river. He suddenly smiled and said, “That may not be a bad thing.”

……

Inside the hotel.

Crash!

Norman Gardner smashed a wine glass against the ground. His face was flushed red due to his extreme rage.

“F*ck it! Jasper Laine, that b*stard! Does he really think that he’s that important?!

“What did he mean by that? I lived a few decades in vain? How can an immature b*stard in his twenties say something like that?!”

Ian Hull looked at Norman, who was beyond agitated, and spoke calmly, “That’s enough, Norman. Being angry serves no purpose. Jasper Laine’s move was indeed something that we didn’t consider. Your anger won’t change the fact that we lost to him in today’s exchange.”

Norman unbuttoned the top button of his shirt. He took a few breaths before saying, “That’s why I’m mad about it. This b*stard is way too sly!”

“It’s alright. He just used some small tricks. We had never expected that he would agree to the construction of the bridge in the first place.”

Ian sneered, his gaze cold and hard. “We should just carry on with the original plan. Commence the development of the north bank immediately. On the other hand, find a way to mess with the South Bank!” He said.

“What about the person that I asked you to contact?”

Norman’s anger seemed to reside as he thought of something. A smile formed on his lips. “I looked into it. Hero Company, which is owned by Mr. Cook, is JW Real Estates’ cement provider, whereas Stellar Company is their steel provider. Meanwhile, they obtain other masonry and building materials from distributor companies in Andros,” he announced.

“Stellar Company’s steel and Hero Company’s cement are both top brands within the industry. Jasper Laine is really willing to splurge on his project.”

Ian chuckled. “Mr. Cook is from Haddock as well. I’ll talk to him later on. As for Stellar Company, I recall that the vice president there is one of your associates, right? Can you talk to him?”

“We are as close as brothers. I can convince him easily!” Norman snickered.

“That’s great. We should talk to all the other distributors in Andros as well,” Ian said in satisfaction.

“I’ll take away all of Jasper Laine’s construction materials this time. Even if he gets his hands on something, they’ll all be defective goods. Let’s see how he intends to carry on with the construction after that!”

Life at the Top Chapter 463

“In Swallow Capital, Jasper Laine relies on the Laws’ support to show off in front of us. Let’s see how he intends to do so in the province! Without the Laws, there is no way that that b*stard and Dawson Schuler, that old scoundrel, is able to beat us!”

A hint of coldness flashed in Ian’s gaze as the corners of his mouth lifted slightly to reveal a devious smile.

“That’s right. This time, we must let Jasper Laine know that no matter how powerful he is, there’s always someone greater than him. Besides, he must pay several times over for everything that he’s done to us!” Norman responded.

……

Meanwhile, Jasper met up with Dawson to tell him about the order of events that took place today after returning from the construction site.

“This is interesting,” Dawson said with a smile. He made a cup of tea for Jasper.

“My thoughts are the same as yours regarding the construction of this bridge. At best, this was just one of their tests. They never expected for us to agree to it in the first place.

“Besides, it’s impossible for the construction to take place without our agreement. They just wanted the Nauritus City Government to form a bad impression of us.”

Jasper replied calmly, “That’s why I proposed building a pedestrian greenway. The budget of the entire project should be around 10 million dollars. We can spend this money to get on the city government’s good side. After all, Nauritus City is the provincial capital. We can’t break off our relationship with the Nauritus City Government.

“Furthermore, this will effectively enhance the attractiveness of the entire project.”

Dawson nodded and said, “That’s right. You considered everything thoroughly. However, there’s no need to pay it too much heed. After all, business is business. Anyone with a discerning eye can clearly tell that there is no reason to condemn us even if we disagree to it.”

“I’m considering their backup plan,” Jasper said while taking a sip of his tea. “They won’t let this go so easily,” he added.

“It’s better to lay low for now.

“Although they’re taking action now, we have a larger chance of winning. They should be more anxious than we are. It would be the best if we didn’t do anything right now,” Dawson suggested.

“After the construction ends in a few months, it’ll be too late for them to do anything.”

Jasper nodded. Dawson’s thoughts coincided with his.

……

In the Province General Hospital, Wendy brought some fruits into the intensive care unit ward.

Julian, who was looking after Cathy, got up once Wendy entered the room. “Ms. Schuler, why are you here?” He asked.

Wendy chuckled. “I was busy during Cathy’s surgery, so I didn’t have time to visit then. I came over to visit her now that her surgery is over,” she said.

Wendy put down the fruits and took a seat on the chair that Julian had pulled out. Cathay opened her eyes weakly to look at her. “How are you? Are you feeling alright?” She asked Cathy.

A bone marrow transplant was a major operation. Cathay had just woken up not too long ago. She still could not speak, so she could only nod her head slightly or use her gaze to express her intentions.

“The doctor told us that the operation was a success. She can be discharged from the hospital after being hospitalized for observation for around half a month,” Julian explained to Wendy.

Julian’s eyes were red-rimmed. He bowed deeply to Wendy. “Ms. Schuler, you and Jasper are our saviors. Nothing we do will ever be enough to repay your kindness,” he said.

“Don’t say something like that. Jasp and I both truly admire your capabilities, Julian. I still need you to take good care of Jasp on my behalf,” Wendy said, implying that there was no need for Julian to act so courteously.

“Furthermore, Cathy has been helping out in the company all this while. I’m well aware of her capabilities. Her work efficiency was simply affected due to her health problems. After Cathy gets discharged, she can officially join the company. I’ve already prepared a position for her,” Wendy said.

Julian nodded gratefully. Although he was full of gratitude, he did not know how to express it due to his introverted nature. He then caught sight of the apple beside him. “Ms. Schuler, wait for a minute. I’ll wash an apple for you,” he said immediately.

Just as Wendy was about to say that it was not necessary, Julian picked up the apple and ran out of the ward.

Wendy smiled and shook her head. She knew that this was Julian’s way of expressing his gratitude. If he rejected him, he may feel hurt.

Soon after, Julian returned empty-handed. His expression was slightly solemn.

“Ms. Schuler, did you offend anyone lately?”

Life at the Top Chapter 464

Stupefied, Wendy responded, “No, I’m always either at the company or at home. My life revolves around these two places. How could I offend someone? What happened?”

Julian’s expression became more serious. However, he was a smart man. He knew what he could tell Wendy, and what he could not. He smiled and responded, “It’s nothing. I was just asking. I dirtied the apple just now, so I’ll take another one. Wait for a moment.”

Julian picked up another apple. He then turned around and left the ward.

Wendy’s mind wandered as she watched Julian’s silhouette.

After walking out of the ward, Julian pulled out his phone and called Jasper immediately.

“Jasper, it’s me, Julian.

“Ms. Schuler came over to the hospital to visit my sister…Yes, her surgery is over…Yep, it was a major success. Thank you for your concern, Jasper…

“Jasper, I discovered that someone was stalking Ms. Schuler just now. That person was extremely alert. He ran away once he noticed me. I was worried that they had something else up their sleeves, so I didn’t go after him and came back to ensure Ms. Schuler’s safety.”

Jasper had just bid Dawson goodbye when he received Julian’s call. He was on the way home at the time.

After listening to what Julian said, Jasper asked the driver to head over to the Province General Hospital immediately. “You made the right choice. Don’t do anything for now. I’ll head over right away. Let’s talk after I arrive,” he told Julian.

When Jasper arrived at the hospital, Julian was guarding Wendy closely in the ward.

“Jasper,” Julian called out as he walked in front of him.

Jasper nodded as he patted Julian on the shoulder. He turned around to smile at Wendy and then walked in front of Cathy.

“Don’t say anything. Just lie down and rest,” Jasper said. He leaned down to press her back onto the bed after seeing her struggle to say something.

“You don’t need to think of anything else. Julian is working by my side now. We have a pretty close relationship. Wendy told me that you have quite the talent in management as well. After you recover, I intend to let you lead the company’s logistics department.

“This position comes with grueling responsibilities, so you must get well soon.”

Jasper told her this in a joking manner. He then turned around to face Wendy. “Why are you here?” He asked.

“I should be asking you that, right?” Wendy asked as she cast a glance at Julian. Julian must have discovered something. He must have hid it from her and told Jasper instead.

“I just stopped by on the way to pay someone a visit,” Jasper said with a smile.

“You’ve been so busy these past few days. I was afraid you’d forget, so I came over to pay Cathy a visit on behalf of the both of us,” Wendy explained.

Jasper nodded and said, “Wait for me here. Julian, let’s go out for a smoke.”

After speaking, Jasper attempted to walk out of the ward.

“Stand right there,” Wendy said, wrapping her arms around him. She looked Jasper in the eye and said, “You rarely smoke. If there’s something, you should just tell me face to face. Am I not allowed to know about this?”

Jasper smiled at her bitterly. He knew that there was no way he could hide something from the brilliant Wendy Schuler.

Although Wendy rarely expressed her opinions in front of Jasper, she was the one who made most of the company decisions when he was not around.

She was skilled in business management. Since she was capable of running a large company well, it went without saying that she was not someone that could be fooled easily.

After flashing a meaningful glance at Julian, Jasper took his place by Wendy’s side. They were not going to talk outside anymore.

“Ms. Schuler, I just found out that someone was stalking you. There were at least three people. They exhibited a high degree of professionalism, and they seemed to be imbued with a strong sense of purpose,” Julian said.

“They exhibited a high degree of professionalism?”

Jasper’s brows knitted together once he heard what Julian said. He replied in a low voice, “Tell me exactly what happened.”

……

Life at the Top Chapter 465

In a hotel within the province.

Ben Hull was resting on the bed in a suite that had been converted into a temporary ward.

His complexion was terrible after undergoing two operations. However, his gaze was even more terrifying.

Lisa Gardner and a man in his thirties, who looked a lot like Ben, were in the room as well.

This man was Hans Hull. He was Ben’s uncle.

Hans’ parents bore him at a relatively older age, so he had been spoilt since he was young. He had started looking for women when he was a teenager, and now that he was in his thirties, he had achieved nothing except for establishing himself as a renowned playboy.

Hans’ complexion was pale due to his constant indulgence in debauchery all year long. His body had long been a hollow shell that was dominated by women. His gaze shone as he stared at the photographs of Wendy Schuler in his hand with a lustful gaze.

“Are you all rubbish?” Ben yelled at a man standing by the door.

“The Hulls spend so much to keep the lot of you alive. If it weren’t for the Hulls, you would all have died from hunger on the streets. However, you can’t even manage to follow a normal woman. You even got discovered by them. Why are you so useless?!”

Ben started coughing violently after yelling at the man due to his overwhelming rage. He had a hideous scowl etched on his face.

Lisa sighed. “Don’t get all worked up, Benny. The doctor said that you have to control your emotions now,” she said.

A spiteful and vicious expression formed on Ben’s face. “This bunch of rubbish can’t even follow a mere woman around. How could I not be angry?” He asked.

The man standing by the door looked extremely guilty. “Sorry, Young Master. We didn’t expect a professional to appear in the ward. That person is really skilled. He saw through my disguise almost immediately. I had to leave first in order to not alert them,” he explained.

“Aaron, you’ve been with the Hulls for a decade, right?”

Just then, Hans finally lifted his gaze away from the photograph of Wendy Schuler in his hand unwillingly. He raised his head to speak to the man standing by the door.

Aaron nodded and replied, “Yes, Second Master, it’s been exactly ten years.”

Hans snickered. “You know me. I can’t let them get away with bullying my nephew. Moreover, I really like the woman of the man that bullied my nephew,” he said.

“That’s why I don’t want to listen to any of your excuses or explanations. I’ll give you one more chance. I want to see this woman lying on my bed in three days’ time. Can you do that?”

The horrifying image of Julian flashed across Aaron’s mind. Although the two of them had never gone against each other before, he knew a master when he saw one.

Aaron could tell that Julian was definitely a powerful fighter just from his physique and gaze.

He knew that he could not win against a master like him if he went against him alone.

However, Hans’ frigid gaze caused Aaron to grit his teeth harshly. “Don’t worry, Second Master. This time, I definitely won’t make any mistakes!” He exclaimed.

Hans nodded after getting a satisfactory response from Aaron. “That’s a good attitude. I don’t care about the method, I only care about the results. You’d better not disappoint me,” he said.

After speaking, Hans sneered coldly and gestured for Aaron to leave the room.

Hans stared at the photograph in his hands after Aaron left the room. “Ian and Lisa, the both of you have bestowed a huge gift upon me this time around. The moment I saw her, I felt like I had fallen in love,” he said.

Lisa cast a disgusted glance at Hans. Any woman with a decent mind would stay as far as possible as they could from a man like Hans Hull.

Nevertheless, in name, Hans Hull was still her “distant relative”. Therefore, she could only bite the bullet and tell him, “As long as you like it, Uncle.”

Hans guffawed loudly. “I like it! I like it way too much! I’ve had my way with so many women that I’d thought that no woman would be able to shock me anymore. However, the first time I set my eyes on her, I felt that all the women that I’ve had in the past were all garbage!” He remarked.

Ben smiled. He did not seem to mind at all.

Life at the Top Chapter 466

Although Hans was Ben’s biological uncle, he had a larger age gap with his father, Ian, than he did with him.

Therefore, in all honesty, the two of them could be regarded as birds of a feather.

Furthermore, Hans was the one who had brought Ben to his very first hook-up.

“Uncle, I wouldn’t recommend someone of a subpar quality, would I? She’s a woman of excellent quality. This is just her photograph. You are yet to see her in real life. Even I fell for her when I saw her in person.”

As Ben spoke, a sinister smile formed on his face. “However, that man called Jasper Laine is Wendy Schuler’s boyfriend. He’s sort of difficult. As you know, my father and uncle have been going against him lately. Therefore, we will have to resort to tricks to kidnap her,” he said.

Hans waved his hand at him. “What are you afraid of? Even if he’s that powerful, he’s just a young boy. With your father and uncle personally going against him, he’ll be defeated for sure. How dare he go against the Hulls and Gardners?” He questioned indifferently.

Ben laughed and exclaimed, “You’re really confident, Uncle! We just have to wait for the good news from Aaron now. When I picture the expression on Jasper Laine’s face once he discovers that his girlfriend has slept with another man, I get all excited! Hahahaha!”

A vicious and venomous smile appeared on Lisa Gardner’s face as well. “Once he realizes that he’s been cheated on, let’s see how high and mighty he’ll be.” She added.

Hans snickered as he gazed at the two photographs in his hand greedily. He then tucked them into his coat. It was as if he could feel pleasure by doing so.

His thoughts were now fully consumed by Wendy Schuler. As for Jasper Laine, he could not care less about him.

He was just a minor character. He could get away once or twice, but what was the use of that?

Throughout the years, he did not stop himself from setting his hands on someone else’s girlfriend or wife right before their very eyes. Hans did not feel an ounce of guilt when he did something like that. Conversely, he felt beyond thrilled.

……

Inside the ward.

After hearing Julian go through the entire incident in detail, a list of all the possible candidates who had sent someone to follow Wendy flashed across Jasper’s mind.

It could not be Erik Turner. He was in Swallow Capital, so it was impossible for him have such a far reach. If he had done something like that, he would not have had such great progress in Swallow Captial.

Ian Hull and Norman Gardner?

These two people were the most suspicious as of now.

However, Jasper felt like there were still some problems that he was yet to discover.

Nonetheless, there was too little information at hand. There was no way for Jasper to pinpoint the perpetrator with complete certainty.

Despite this, he had inwardly increased his level of caution toward Ian Hull and Norman Gardner.

There were people who certain people who wanted to bring harm to Wendy. The Zions from Brac County were the perfect example.

This time, Jasper would make the people who wished to harm Wendy suffer more despair than the Zions did!

“Why don’t you rest at home for a few days, Wendy?”

Letting out a soft sigh, Jasper suggested to Wendy.

Wendy frowned slightly and said, “I still have a lot of tasks on hand at the company. I’ve been following up and handling a lot of the company matters. If I stayed at home, how would I be able to work?”

“There are so many people in the company. We will still be able to operate without you. Besides, I’ll be there,” Jasper said.

“We shouldn’t hide from them. They’re just following me, right? Let them follow me all they want. What can they do to me? If a small issue like this scares me to the point that I don’t dare to leave the house, what would I do in the future?” Wendy said in a tough, domineering tone.

Life at the Top Chapter 467

Jasper felt that Wendy made some sense.

Moreover, he did not want to force Wendy to stay at home in light of her insistent stance.

Wendy was one who could be persuaded by reason, but she definitely would not yield to a forceful approach.

After learning that someone was stalking her, there was no way that she would hide at home just because of it.

Dawson had previously told Jasper about an incident that took place when Wendy was sixteen years old. Back then, one of Dawson’s business competitors intended to hire someone to kidnap Wendy in order to threaten him.

However, sixteen-year-old Wendy Schuler had insisted on continuing to attend classes with a taser and a knife in her bag.

At that moment, Jasper knew in his heart that although this young lady looked soft, gentle, weak, and appeared like an easy target for bullies, she was definitely not an ordinary woman who could be easily provoked.

If he were to draw a comparison between Anna Law and Wendy Schuler…

Anna Law was just like a poppy flower–she was beyond enchanting and charming. However, she had her means of poisoning others when they least expected it.

On the other hand, Wendy Schuler resembled a rose. She was breathtakingly beautiful, but there were thorns concealed under the fragrant scent of her petals. Anyone who dared to approach her without thinking twice were likely to get pricked till blood ran down their hands.

Jasper felt that he was a pretty lucky man. In front of him, Wendy had always hidden away her thorns and transformed them into a soft and silent layer of gentleness.

“No problem. Julian, you should stay by Wendy’s side for the time being. Don’t let her out of your sight,” Jasper ordered.

“Alright, Jasper,” Julian agreed with a nod.

However, Wendy had a different opinion. From her point of view, Jasper was in a position that was much more dangerous as compared to her.

If someone was following her around, it was likely that those people would make a move on Jasper as well.

However, just as she was about to express her thoughts, she caught sight of Jasper’s stern gaze, which was directed at her. She instantly swallowed all the words that she had intended to counter him with.

She knew that Jasper would listen to her most of the time. However, once he made a certain type of decision, nobody was allowed to question it.

“Alright,” Wendy said in exasperation.

After deciding on the plan, Jasper left together with Wendy.

Julian left with them as well.

Although Cathy needed someone to look after her during her recuperation period, Julian knew his priorities.

At the hospital, Jasper had arranged for a team of experts to observe and oversee the entire process of Cathy’s recovery. In addition to this, a few of the best nurses in the hospital were looking after her 24 hours a day.

Therefore, Julian did not need to worry about Cathy at all.

The three of them left the ward and soon returned home. Jasper and Wendy did not tell Dawson about this incident.

There was no need to add to his worries.

Jasper now had the ability to handle all the impending problems and crises that he faced. He did not need someone else’s protection anymore.

On the contrary, he now needed to bear the brunt of all the problems in order to protect the people by his side.

The next day, Jasper and Wendy were just about to leave the house after having their breakfasts when Jasper received a call from Sean Tucker.

“Mr. Laine, we have a problem!”

Jasper frowned upon hearing what he said.

Sean then proceeded to explain the situation to him. There was a problem with the supply of building materials.

“I’ll head over to the company at once.”

Jasper arrived at JW Real Estates. The real estate company was yet to have a formal independent working space. Therefore, it currently worked from a temporary office that occupied two floors of Schuler Group’s office building.

Life at the Top Chapter 468

As soon as Jasper walked into the company, he invited Sean and a bunch of executives that had rushed over from the construction site to gather for a meeting.

“Mr. Laine, we had originally agreed on the shipment of a batch of cement with Hero Company today morning. However, they didn’t send out the shipment. We tried to contact them by calling them, but they told us that the manager in charge of handling us had gone on a business trip and can’t be contacted for now.”

A person in charge stood up and announced. There was an unpleasant look on his face.

“Hero Company is one of the country’s top large-scale cement suppliers. How can a single manager be in charge of handling the entire shipment? What about the other people?” Jasper asked.

“We couldn’t get in contact with them. Meanwhile, the managers that that we did manage to contact after numerous tries told us that the company was facing a production shortage right now. Therefore, they have limited all of their distribution channels, and have no idea when they’ll be able to distribute the supplies to us”

Jasper rapped his fingers against the table. His expression was dark and overcast. “Are there any problems with our payment for the goods?” He asked.

The person in charge reported, “There was absolutely no problem with the payment. We adhered to the contract strictly. We pledged two batches of goods, and paid for the first batch of supplies after the third batch was sent to us. There has been no problem until now.”

Jasper nodded and said, “In that case, this isn’t about money. What about the steel supplies? Are there problems with that as well?”

Another executive let out an audible sigh. “The situation at Stellar Company is pretty similar. We can’t get in contact with the person handling our supplies. However, Stellar Company faxed us an official letter,” he said.

“The letter said that several of the boilers at Stellar Company are under maintenance, so they are currently shut down and cannot be used for production. They are unsure as to when they can continue distributing the supplies as well.

“That’s right. There are no problems with the payment on this either. We fulfilled all of the criteria mentioned in the contract that has been agreed to in accordance with the market conditions.”

Jasper fixed his gaze on the person in charge of the procurement of materials for the Southface River project.The person in charge, who was in his forties, did not dare to meet Jasper’s gaze at all. His forehead was beaded with sweat. With a bitter expression on his face, he said, “Not only are there problems with the cement and steel supplies, but our supplies of paint, thermal insulation, waterproof concrete, brick, stone and most of the building materials have almost all been cut off.”

No matter the reason, the procurement manager would be the first to be held responsible if there was a problem with the supply of building materials.

The procurement manager felt like burying himself in the ground right now.

Following his words, the atmosphere in the meeting room fell into a state of heavy, sinister silence.

Everyone directed their gazes at Jasper, who was seated at the head of the table, as they waited for him to come up with an idea.

Right then, Sean decided to bite the bullet after pondering it for some time. “Mr. Laine, it’d be reasonable if there were problems with procuring one or two of the building materials. However, the supply of all our building materials, regardless of the shipment size, have been cut off at the same time. It’s obvious that someone from the upstream supply chain is messing with us,” he said.

Jasper did not reply.

Anyone could understand something simple like that.

This move was not really very smart. In fact, it was rather barbaric.

However, it was still effective.

It was a trick that utilized a predatory pricing strategy to buy up the supply.

If they did this to a weaker opponent, their opponent would have lost all resistance instantly. They would be at the mercy of everyone else.

Previously, Jasper had used a similar method to defeat the Zions back in Brac County.

“It’s Haddock. Ian Hull and Norman Gardner are behind this,” Jasper announced in an even tone.

They were the only ones who go to such lengths in order to disrupt the Southface River project.

Jasper knew that they were about to unleash all their moves on him one by one.

Sean let out a heavy sigh, “Mr. Laine, what should we do now?” He asked.

“How long will the remaining building supplies at the construction site last?” Jasper asked.

Being the competent vice president that he was, Sean answered almost immediately. “The other building materials should be able to last for some time since we still have quite a number of supplies in the inventory. We should have enough to continue for up to ten or fifteen days. However, we use a lot of cement and steel supplies on a daily basis. As of now, our inventory of those will only last another four days,” he said.

“If we don’t receive a new supply of building materials in four days, construction will have to be temporarily suspended.”

“Under no circumstances can construction be suspended. If construction is suspended, a series of harmful chain reactions will occur, alongside drastic financial losses. This is exactly what our opponent wishes to achieve,” Jasper said decisively.

Life at the Top Chapter 469

Sean and a few of the executives looked at each other.

They all understood the reasoning behind their opponent’s actions.

The development of the Southface Riverbank was an enormous project. They would lose millions if they stopped the construction for a single day.

Nobody would willingly want to stop the construction unless the situation was dire.

However, their supply of building materials had all been cut off. It would be impossible not to suspend the construction site under these circumstances.

Nevertheless, Jasper did not leave them waiting for too long. He drew up a plan immediately.

“There’s a building material supplier called Ambition Corporation in Brac Country. The boss of this company is named Xavier Johnson. He’s one of my associates. Later on, the head of the procurement department will have to get in contact with him and ask him to supply us with building materials from the Brac County market.”

The head of the procurement department was overjoyed upon hearing this. “Don’t worry, Mr. Laine. I’ll handle this task well,” he said immediately.

Jasper massaged his temples and said in a frigid tone, “I’ve found the person that you need, and I’ll give you his contact information later. All you need to do is make a few phone calls and assess the quality of the supplies. If you can’t even do something like that, I’ll need you to pack up and go home.”

The procurement manager instantly flushed a bright red. Overcome with awkwardness, he could not say a single word.

“There’s something else as well.”

Jasper did not give him another glance. Although it was not his fault that the supply of building materials had gotten cut off, this issue had revealed that JW Real Estates’ procurement department was seriously inadequate.

They did not even plan to look for another supplier after the original source cut off their supplies. The was the main responsibility of the department head.

However, this was not the time to penalize them. That would have to wait until everything was resolved.

“Since Stellar Company cut off our supply of steel, we should get in contact with Fortress Iron and Steel Co. Ltd. They are one of the largest steelmaking plants in the country as well. Even without Stellar Company, we can get our steel supplies all the same.”

The procurement manager hesitated before saying, “Mr. Laine, we had to get quotations from both of these companies when we were selecting the suppliers. The quotation from Fortress Iron and Steel Co. Ltd. was 20% higher than that of Stellar Company. They didn’t give us any room for negotiation either. Therefore, we eventually chose Stellar Company.”

“If they find out that we were looking for them after having our supplies cut off by Stellar Company, I’m afraid that it will be hard to get a good price.”

Jasper waved his hand and said, “It’s alright. Agree to it as long as the price isn’t too outrageous. If you aren’t sure, you can discuss the matter with Vice President Tucker. Our current priority is to resolve the issue we are facing with our building materials. As for money, or difference of a few million dollars will not have much of an impact.”

“Also, is the head of the legal department here?” Jasper asked.

A middle-aged woman, who was wearing glasses, quickly stood up. There was a cold and hard expression on her face. “Mr. Laine, I’m Sarah Lund, the manager of JW Real Estates’ legal department,” she said.

Jasper nodded. Among the several department heads, he was the most satisfied with Sarah Lund’s performance. She had always acted in a calm and collected manner.

“We will go through the proper legal procedures when examining the contracts that we’ve signed with the original suppliers, regardless of the length of these contracts. There is no need to send them a lawyer’s letter. The other party will not care at all, and there is no need to discuss it further. We will sue them, and reject all out-of-court settlements.”

“Due to the cut-off of supplies, the losses faced by our company will have to be recovered from their compensation. This lawsuit is going to be a major battle. Don’t refrain from causing a huge ruckus. The bigger the ruckus we cause, the better it’ll be for us.”

After registering what Jasper said, Sarah replied, “Mr. Laine, if we carry out our actions according to your conditions, these lawsuits will be delayed for a long time. We will accrue a relatively large cost as well.”

“The lawsuit will just consist of a first hearing, a second hearing, and the final judgment. I have a lot of time on my hand. I have tons of money as well. Through these lawsuits, I want to tell all the companies working together with us that JW Real Estates will never give in to such rogue and lowly methods.

“Anyone who dares to breach their contract with JW Real Estates will have to be prepared to face our lawsuit till the very end.”

After the meeting ended, Jasper returned to his office.

Dawson had allocated an office room to him in JW Real Estates. It was usually empty except for the times that the cleaners would come in to clean up the room. However, the room was furnished with extensive facilities. There was even a brand-new television inside.

He turned on the television. The provincial news channel was playing right now.

As expected, the new content revolved around the development of the north bank of the Southface River.

Norman Gardner was on screen. He was standing with his back to the venue of the foundation laying ceremony, which had just ended. “The main goal we would like to achieve through the development of the North Bank is to revitalize the poor economic areas on the north bank of the province,” he announced with a cheerful smile on his face.

“Besides that, according to our plan, the North Bank will be transformed into a central city that will integrate daily entertainment, and leisure. It won’t lose out to the South Bank!

“I believe that the North Bank will definitely shine brilliantly in the near future.”

The landline phone on the office table suddenly rang.

The call was from the reception.

“Mr. Laine, Mr. Ian Hull said that he’s here to visit you.”

Jasper raised his brow. He had originally intended to shut off the television. However, he changed his mind and put down the remote control. “Let him in,” he said.

Not long after, Ian Hull entered Jasper’s office under the guidance of an employee.

Ian entered the room with a joyous smile splayed across his face. After catching sight of the news being broadcasted on the television, his smile instantly grew broader. He extended a hand toward Jasper and said, “Mr. Laine, are you interested in our North Bank project as well?”

Jasper laughed. “I was born and bred in the Southeastern district of the province. Meanwhile, you have come a long way from Andros to develop the relatively underdeveloped North Bank here in the province, Mr. Hull. Since you’re bringing benefits to the Southeastern district, I have no reason not to turn a blind-eye to the project,” he said.

Ian smiled cheerily and gave him a thumbs up. “As expected of you, Mr. Laine. You’re a generous person indeed,” he remarked.

“Mr. Hull, you didn’t come here just to tell me this, right?” Jasper asked.

Ian sat down on the sofa and patted the armrest. “You sure do know how to enjoy yourself, Mr. Laine. This sofa must have been imported from overseas. It isn’t cheap,” he commented.

Jasper looked at Ian calmly without uttering a single word.

Ian laughed upon realizing that Jasper was not playing along with him. “Actually, I came here today to ask if you were interested in selling me your project on the South Bank, Mr. Laine,” he told Jasper.

Jasper raised his brow and chuckled. “You have a pretty large appetite, Mr. Hull.”

“After all, business is business. At first, I came over just to survey the scene without any other intentions. However, the more I looked around, the more I realized that the South Bank project really has large commercial value. In any case, it’d be difficult for your construction site to proceed with its construction work now,” Ian said indifferently.

“Why don’t you sell the project to me instead of holding on fruitlessly?”

“What makes you think that it’ll be difficult for my construction site to proceed with its construction work?” Jasper asked in an even tone.

Ian guffawed loudly. “Mr. Laine, we’re both smart people. Let’s speak in a straightforward manner. Without the building supplies, does your construction site intend to carry out the construction with rocks collected from the roadside?” He questioned.

“Mr. Hull, so how much do you plan to acquire my project for?” Jasper asked.

Ian thought for a while before replying, “300 million dollars.”

Life at the Top Chapter 470

300 million dollars.

At first glance, it sounded like a lot.

It would be considered a lot even twenty years into the future in the era Jasper had been living in before his reincarnation.

300 million dollars was enough for a family to achieve financial freedom. They would be viewed as admirable millionaires in everyone’s eyes.

Nevertheless, however he looked at it, the price of 300 million offered by Ian Hull sounded like a huge insult.

“I won’t say much about the value of the project’s development rights. Putting that aside, I have already invested 800 million dollars in the project alone, and I’ve made a follow-up investment of more than 1.5 billion dollars. Despite all this, you telling me that you’re going to buy this project for 300 million dollars. Mr. Hull, you have such immaculate decision-making.”

Ian chuckled at Jasper’s words. “Mr. Laine, I’m much older than you are. At first, I thought that you were really capable and wouldn’t need many tips on what to do. However, I’d have to teach you a thing or two today,” he said.

“The value of a commodity often isn’t based on its monetary value alone. Some things will end up being a bad project when placed in your hands. You simply don’t have the ability to make it work.

“In that case, it’ll be worthless burden to you.

“However, it’d be different in my hands. I can make it work. This is my personal ability. This is my capital. You can’t include this in the value of a commodity.”

Seated behind his office desk, Jasper fixed a calm and heavy gaze upon Ian.

After Ian finished speaking, Jasper questioned him in an indifferent tone, “From your perspective, is there no doubt that I’ll screw up this project, Mr. Hull?”

Ian let out an inward laugh as his gaze gradually hardened. “Stop being so pretentious, Jasper Laine. Isn’t it meaningless to do so? Your supply of building materials have been cut off, and I’m telling you that you won’t be able to purchase any building materials no matter where you go or who you look for!” He said.

“This is the definition of networking! This is what you call a resource pool!

“After all, I’m regarded as a prominent individual in Andros. Besides, given the reputation of the Haddock Chamber of Commerce, who would dare to get on my bad side? Who would choose to supply you with building materials under the risk of offending Haddock?

“How is the construction site going to proceed with its construction work without the building materials?”

Ian chuckled lightly. He looked at Jasper with a satisfied expression on his face. “In this world, you can’t do whatever you want just because you have the potential and have once received a few words of praise from others,” he said.

“If I gave a young man like you ten or twenty more years, or once you’re at my age, you may really become more powerful than me.

“However, you’re still way too young right now. You haven’t gone through the torments of society. You wouldn’t know how high and mighty the outside world can be. This incident should teach you a lesson.”

Ian got up as he spoke. He placed his hands on the office desk and stared down at Jasper from above. “You can only blame yourself for being way too reckless in Swallow Capital. You may not have thought about this, but although I may not have the ability to go against the Laws, it’s beyond easy for me to defeat you,” he said while snickering.

“Admit your wrongdoings in front of me, and apologize to my son. After that, hand this project over to me. I will let you keep your other businesses. Otherwise, I’ll make sure to take away everything that you have and turn you into a penniless loser!”

“Your threats are rather frightening,” Jasper remarked in an even tone.

“Young man, it’s important to know your own limits. Do you really have the ability to go against your seniors in the industry?”

Ian chuckled as he stood up and looked down at Jasper.

“Don’t be so conceited to the point that you forget your last name just because you’ve received some praise in the past. This type of behavior is dangerous. You’ll be faced with a huge problem sooner or later.

“You’re lucky that you met me. I tend to appreciate talented people, so I’m willing to give you a chance. Otherwise, do you think that you’d still have the opportunity to talk to me right now?”