Ch. 91..100
Life at the Top Chapter 91
“Dad, don’t worry. This time, I won’t lose to anyone no matter what!” Zayden said firmly while gritting his teeth.
Sylva turned back and looked at him. Then, he patted his shoulder and said, “If that’s the case, then the ten billion dollar fee is not much of a deficit.”
Zayden lowered his voice and said, “I’ll take back this debt from the Schulers and that person behind them!”
…
Jasper had been staying in Schuler Manor in the province.
Firstly, the registration of the real estate company and the series of paperwork regarding this process would need his signature since he was the shareholder.
Secondly, he took this time to stroll around the province with Wendy as well.
JW Capital was only investing in Terizone for now.
In addition to that, Terizone was determined not to fall short, so they did not have to worry much about them. If there were any problems, Hudson and Jack were able to solve them.
Jasper had planned this clearly from the beginning regarding this matter.
He could not attend to everything personally, so if he needed to delegate, then he should.
In his previous life, Hudson was able to lead his team into making Terizone a success, so there would not be many problems for him in this life.
Plus, with his own investments and Jack’s help, everything would only go even smoother.
For now, Jasper was basically paying all of his attention to the province.
In an instant, he was now living with Wendy under the eyes of his future father-in-law.
Of course… They were sleeping in different rooms.
“Grape.”
Wendy’s fair, supple, and long fingers held a peeled grape before putting it in Jasper’s mouth.
Jasper took it with his mouth, and when his lips touched the woman’s finger, he got a coquettish eye roll in return.
What a heavenly life he had right now.
“Back then, I heard my dad say that the news about that piece of land was leaked. Now, a lot of people are asking about it. A few of the millionaires in the province are very interested in it too.”
Wendy did not sound too happy. She looked pissed as if she was saying ‘You b*tches better not be sniffing around the thing I’m after.’
“Nowadays, none of the people with a net worth more than ten million are ordinary. If we can see something, then we can’t expect everyone else in the world to be blind.”
Jasper felt that this was normal.
Others aside, the rights to develop the south bank of the Southface River as a whole was already attractive enough.
He knew how exaggeratedly valuable this thing would be in the future. However, this would not mean that the big shots could not sense anything even if they had not experienced a rebirth.
It was just that they were not as clear and confident as he was.
Jasper was not bothered about the others. The only ones he cared about were the Hanks.
In his memory, the rights to develop had eventually fallen into the hands of the Hanks in his previous life.
“I need to go out,” Jasper got up and said.
“Where?” Wendy asked.
“The auction will start in two days. Today, the registration document for the real estate company will be approved. I’m going to register for the qualifications to bid,” Jasper said before leaving the Schulers’ villa.
The auction was going to be hosted by the city hall, and the standard was very high. Since a lot of people were following it closely, the threshold was pretty high as well.
The capital for registration would be at least 100 million. As such, nobody would have the qualification to come and watch.
When Jasper arrived at the state-owned Assets Supervision and Administration, he saw a lot of companies coming over to apply for the qualification to bid as well.
When he was at the door, Jasper saw someone familiar.
Zayden Hanks.
The latter also spotted Jasper at the same time.
Life at the Top Chapter 92
Zayden immediately walked over.
“Hey, you’re here to apply for the bid as well?” Zayden looked at the folder in Jasper’s hand and chuckled coldly. “You’re just a man who depends on his woman and you’ve gotten some worthwhile results? Seriously?”
“You want to but unfortunately, you’ll never be able to,” Jasper replied coldly.
Zayden’s eyes darkened as he scoffed. “Laine, don’t be so pleased. I’ve suffered some losses before, but what does it have to do with you?”
“The winners are Dawson and that person behind him. At best, you’re just a dog next to them! Stop trying to be a dog that’s threatening people just because of its master’s power!”
“If that’s the case, why don’t we see who’ll get the last laugh?” Jasper shook the folder in his hand and said unhurriedly.
Zayden said disdainfully with a scoff, “You don’t have the right to talk to me like that. Don’t forget you’re just someone who depends on his woman. The Schulers can kick you away anytime they want.”
Jasper peered at Zayden. He wanted to tell Zayden that the 600 million of the 800 million dollars he invested in the real estate company was handed to him by Zayden.
“I don’t know whether the Schulers will kick me away, but this time, I’m afraid your plan is going to be fruitless.”
After Jasper said that, he went straight to the staff to hand them his documents.
“Give me your company’s registration details.”
The staff took down Jasper’s details meticulously. He did not even lift his head, but when he saw the document Jasper handed to him, he was shocked.
“JW Real Estates Development Co., Ltd. is registering a capital of 1.3 billion?”
When he said that, everyone in the room cast sidelong glances at them.
Especially Zayden who was still at the door and had not left. He clenched his fists tightly out of jealousy and shock.
JW Real Estates!
He knew that this company was started by Jasper and Wendy just by the name.
Plus, the 1.3 billion registering capital was enough to make a person who was born in an upper-class family in the province like Zayden suffer from a dizzy spell.
Not everyone was able to take out so much money in this time and age.
Even the Hanks would need to scrimp and save for that amount of money after suffering the serious injury last time.
He did not need to think to know that the one billion dollars he lost last time must be in there.
The interweaving jealousy and grievance were devouring Zayden’s heart like venomous snakes.
Then, he heard something.
“The legal personality is Wendy Schuler and the other shareholder is Jasper Laine. Are you Jasper Laine?”
“Yes. This is my ID and the legal personality, Wendy Schuler’s, authorization document.”
“Alright. The details about the two shareholders are complete. This is your bidding number. Before the auction starts, please transfer a cash deposit of not less than 50 million dollars to this account. Your qualification to bid will only take effect after that.”
“Got it. Thanks.”
After the procedure, Jasper walked out of the door.
Zayden stood in front of him, his eyes red. “Did that old dog Dawson give the 1.3 billion to you and Wendy?”
Dawson and Schuler Group did not have any shares in the real estate company!
Actually, if Dawson had given all of the shares to Wendy, Zayden could still understand. However, Jasper had a 50% share in this and Zayden could not accept it.
To him, Jasper was benefitting wildly for nothing.
“I was as surprised as you when the Schulers gave me so many shares and goodies.”
Jasper shrugged. Looking at Zayden who was shaking from jealousy and shock, he chuckled lightly before saying, “However, the reason he gave me the money the Hanks family gave to start a company and give me so many shares is that Wendy and I are on very intimate terms. Are you pissed? Bite me, then.”
“F*ck you!”
Zayden exploded and directly pounced onto Jasper!
Life at the Top Chapter 93
Jasper did not move when he was facing Zayden who was about to pounce on him like a mad dog.
He was even smiling at him as if he was expecting Zayden to lose his mind completely.
“Mr. Hanks!”
At this critical moment, the people next to Zayden grabbed him tightly.
“This is the city hall and upstairs is the office for the leaders. If you attack him here, then your family will be in trouble. Please calm down.”
Zayden’s subordinates were still rational. They knew that if Zayden attacked Jasper here, he would be in trouble no matter whose fault it was.
Zayden took a deep breath and suppressed his flames of anger.
He glared at Jasper and said malevolently, “You won’t be complacent for long. Soon, I will make you kneel in front of me!”
Zayden turned around and left after he said that.
Jasper felt that it was such a pity that Zayden had stopped himself at the final moment.
If Zayden had attacked Jasper just now, then Jasper would have ways to make him get more than he bargained for.
However, it was fine. It was a last-minute plan anyway, so it would not affect the bigger picture.
Jasper turned around, and when he saw that everyone was looking over at them, he said, “Go now. Go on with your business. There’s nothing to look at now.”
The crowd dispersed in confusion.
After Jasper tidied his clothes, he was about to leave when he heard a woman laughing behind him.
“You’re pretty interesting.”
Her voice was soft and mellow with a lovely charm to it.
Jasper turned around and saw a woman standing by the elevator.
She was in her 20s and wearing a red dress. The weather was turning cold, so she had a shawl around her shoulder.
She did not have much jewelry on her, but she was so charming as if she had been blessed by heaven.
Her exquisite and outstanding beauty exuded a heavy feminine charm that could be sensed from her every move.
This was the first time Jasper saw a woman who could compete with Wendy in terms of beauty.
Wendy’s beauty was so refined that it was unadulterated.
She was like the most valuable gem in this world, and every inch of her was carved with the utmost care.
On the other hand, the woman in front of him was different. She was beautiful, but she was not the most beautiful. The thing that impressed one the most about her was her fawning manner that was not pretentious.
She was as charming as a light wisp of smoke. She could stand there and do nothing, but it would feel as if an invisible hand was plucking on your heartstrings.
“Is that a compliment?” Jasper said without thinking the matter through.
The corners of the woman’s lips curled into a good-looking curve as she said, “I guess. What would you do if he had really attacked you?”
“Call the cops.”
Jasper was frank and straightforward. It was as if calling the cops after a battery was not a shameful thing to do for a man.
“This is a lawful society, so violence is not a solution for problems. People who go against the law will have to pay.”
“When I asked other men this question, they would try their best to show their gentlemanly side that’s not scared of provocation. It’s as if this is the way to show their masculine charm.”
The woman’s eyes shone as she looked at Jasper with interest.
“So that’s why they’re other men,” Jasper laughed and said. After he said that, he left.
Life at the Top Chapter 94
The woman looked at Jasper in surprise. “Aren’t you gonna give me a name card and ask me for my contact number?”
“Goodbye.”
The woman pouted while looking at Jasper’s back. She felt that this young man was the most interesting person she had met after she came to Mainland with her father.
“Goodbye.” Even though Jasper had already left the hall, she still muttered this.
Jasper got into his car in the parking lot. His eyes were twinkling.
The woman just now had a thick Harbor City accent. In addition to that, it went without saying that if someone from Harbor City was here at this moment, then it must mean that the big shot was coming over to invest in the province.
Jasper had a plan forming in his head, and he quickly called Dawson.
“Uncle Schuler, I have something to discuss with you.”
Dawson did not hesitate. He told his secretary to cancel his following schedule and said to Jasper, “Alright. Come to the company. I’ll wait for you in my office.”
…
“Fck! Fck! Damn that son of a b*tch!”
Zayden smashed the teacup in his hand furiously and was stomping his feet while yelling like a lunatic.
The subordinates in the room did not dare to make a sound. They did not dare to provoke Zayden who was in a violent rage.
“Who the f*ck does Jasper think he is? How dare he step on my head and tyrannically abuse me?”
When he recalled what had happened just now, Zayden felt as if jealousy and anger were gnawing continuously on his heart. He was on the brink of insanity.
“Mr. Hanks,” one of his subordinates said cautiously.
“Master told us that we have to prioritize the proper business first. After we achieve our goal, that Jasper person will still be a dog in front of you. When the time comes, you can do whatever you want to him.”
Zayden pulled the collar of his shirt and laughed malevolently before saying, “You’re right. Those dogs will never even dream that I’ve already contacted the businessman from Harbor City. With his support, I’ll surely have the last laugh for this auction!”
While he said that, Zayden narrowed his eyes to hide the shock and greed in his eyes.
“It’s a three billion dollar investment. This Harbor City businessman is so rich. No wonder the leaders from the provincial government attach so much value to him. If an amusement park gets a three billion dollar investment, then how much will the value of the entire south bank of the Southface River be in the future?”
At this moment, there was a knock on the door.
Zayden quickly ran over to open the door.
The person who came in was a sloppy-looking young man with an arrogant look on his face.
“Mr. Law, you’re here.”
Zayden did not put on any airs in front of Mr. Law. He smiled and bent over for him like a slave.
Mr. Law grunted and looked at the room that was in a mess. Then, he grinned and said in English that was dripping with a heavy Harbor City accent, “Didn’t you say you’re going to take me to have some fun in the province? I don’t think you’re in a good mood now.”
“Not at all.” Zayden was smiling so widely it was as if flowers were going to blossom on his face. He said, “It’s just a minor accident. My family wants to bid on that piece of land as well, so because of this, my father scolded me and criticized me for my slow progress.”
Mr. Law smiled and patted Zayden’s face. He said, “Mainlander, don’t play this with me. Don’t worry, I’ve already told my old man about your situation.”
“It’s not that we can’t work with you because we’re looking for a local company with strength anyway. You guys fit the bill, but…
“If I’m not happy, my old man will not be happy. If we’re not happy, then there won’t be any hope for us working together.”
When Zayden felt Mr. Law’s hand on his face, his smile became even more radiant and humble.
“Mr. Law, don’t worry. I’ll definitely serve you well. The activities have already been arranged, so please come with me, Mr. Law…”
Mr. Law guffawed and said, “I love attentive Mainlanders like you.”
Life at the Top Chapter 95
“You’re too courteous, Mr. Law. It’s my pleasure to entertain you,” Zayden said in an extremely humbling manner. His heart was about to crack from anger and humiliation.
However, he did not have a choice. He could only endure this because, at this stage, he could not offend Mr. Law.
The auction was about to start, and the fruit of victory was just in front of him, so he must endure this.
Zayden swore in his heart. After he won, he would return all of the grievances he had suffered during this period back to Jasper by 100-fold!
…
“You mean the Hanks might have already contacted the businessman from Harbor City?”
Dawson looked heatedly at Jasper, and his expression was solemn.
Jasper nodded and said, “The attitude of the businessman from Harbor City could directly affect the attitude of the government. Since he’s planning to invest, then the coherent facilities would follow after the land he invests in. Coincidentally, he would run into the matter of the province’s expansion.
“Plus, the Hanks have already stated their determination to take down the land and the land development rights on so many occasions. On one hand, it’s to make people back out of it, and on the other hand, I’m afraid the only other reason is to stir the pot so that other people would not be able to tell the truth.”
After hearing what Jasper said, Dawson asked, “What’s your plan then?”
“We’ll give it to them,” Jasper smiled and said.
“Give it to them?” Dawson raised his eyebrow slightly.
“It would not be wise to go head-on with the Hanks during the auction. This will greatly increase our cost as well.”
Jasper spoke frankly with assurance. He was very confident.
“The rights to develop as a whole is valuable because the investment project for the businessman from Harbor City is at the south bank of the Southface River. Plus, the businessman from Harbor City is the one with the final say. So, if he changes his mind, then the Hanks will suffer a great loss.”
Dawson understood what Jasper was saying. He took two steps forward and said, “Are you confident that you can influence the businessman?”
Everyone knew the key element to this was still the attitude of the businessman.
Jasper recalled the economic trend in Harbor City in his previous life. Then, he smiled and said, “If the businessman is willing to work with us, he’ll be able to get an even bigger profit, so why wouldn’t he?”
…
Two days passed in a blink of an eye.
Today, the city hall would become the temporary venue for the auction, and there was heavy traffic on the streets.
Almost all of the influential families and millionaires in the province that people could name were here.
Everyone was working for a living in the same territory, so when they met each other, they would surely exchange conventional greetings.
“Mr. Long, you’re so early.”
A middle-aged man clad in a suit smiled and said to another man who just got out of the car.
“Me? You’re in the pharmaceutical industry and you’re interested in real estate?” Mr. Long mocked.
“Heh, what’s the use of only being interested? There are so many people here but all of us already know that we’re going to lose.”
“You’re right.” Mr. Long sighed with sorrow. “These two families had some bad blood before this.They were competing with each other openly and behind the scenes as well. Last time, the Hanks suffered a loss. This time, I wonder who will be the winning party?”
“They’ve been sulking for a while. So, it’s worth the price of this ticket since we can watch a great show today,” the man laughed and said.
At the same time, Jasper and Wendy arrived at the parking lot.
At the age where everyone was still treating Mercedes-Benz and BMW as high-end luxury cars, the appearance of a Bentley was very outstanding.
Everyone at the scene of the auction looked over, and they knew immediately the Schulers were here.
After Jasper got out of the car with Wendy, a few people who were close with Dawson all came up to them to exchange conventional greetings.
Although Dawson was not here, Wendy was attending on his behalf.
Wendy’s performance for tonight was invulnerable.
She greeted all of them with utmost manners, and it was as if she was able to chat with everyone.
After exchanging conventional greetings, Jasper led Wendy to the venue of the auction.
“No wonder your father isn’t worried about letting you come,” Jasper said with a smile, “You’re doing a good job.”
Wendy pressed her lips together and said, “You can’t escape these social niceties and interactions. I’ve been getting used to them since a very long time ago.
The two of them walked to the entrance of the venue. They could see Zayden standing there from afar.
It was as if he was standing there just to wait for Jasper and Wendy. He ignored the people around him who were greeting him. However, since his family was powerful, no one dared to quibble about this with him.
When he saw the two of them, Zayden displayed a sinister look along with an evil grin on his face.
He placed his hands behind his back before strutting to the two of them.
“Hey, the man who depends on his woman is here.”
Zayden was acting strangely the moment he opened his mouth. After he said that, his eyes landed on Wendy.
He looked greedy and malicious.
“Wendy, you rejected the road to heaven and chose to mingle with this piece of trash?”
Wendy looked at Zayden coldly and said, “Please go away.”
Zayden could feel his heart contorting when he saw Wendy wanting to put a good distance between the two of them. He chuckled coldly and said, “I liked you so much back then but now you’ve become blind and chose this piece of trash instead?”
Zayden pointed at Jasper and said to Wendy, “This piece of trash is just coveting your beauty and family’s money. Can’t you see it?”
Wendy did not want to continue bickering with Zayden, so she said, “I told you to go away, please. You’ll only disgust me by standing in front of me.”
“Disgust?” Zayden lifted his face and guffawed. “Alright, then I want to see how long you can stay arrogant for. Didn’t you flaunt yourself as incorruptible? You feel disgusted looking at me, huh? Soon, I’ll make you adulterous swines kneel in front of me!
“You will regret this. You will regret choosing the wrong man. I will let you know that I’m the most excellent man and this piece of trash next to you will just be my dog!”
“Jasp, ignore him. Let’s go.” Wendy grabbed Jasper and walked past Zayden to go straight into the auction venue.
When Jasper walked past Zayden, Zayden said with bitter resentment, “Just you wait.”
“I’ll wait.” Jasper smiled. “I’ll wait for your death.”
Zayden turned around with a flash of understanding. Then, he stared straight at Jasper’s back and clenched his fists. His nails were sinking into his flesh.
Suddenly, Zayden cackled morbidly. “The more you feel pleased with yourself, the more down and out you’ll be later. Come, let’s see who gets the last laugh.”
After Wendy and Jasper walked into the venue, Wendy said to Jasper, “Jasp, Zayden is so gross.”
Jasper led Wendy to their seats and said, “We don’t have to get angry over this kind of person. Our rival has always been the Hanks since the beginning of time and not Zayden. He… doesn’t have that qualification yet.”
Life at the Top Chapter 96
After everyone from different industries arrived, the auction officially started.
A group of people walked in from the side door with the leader of the city hall leading them. Then, they sat in the seats that were intentionally separated from the rest.
The leaders from different industries who came to the auction started interacting with each other. They understood that those people who had just walked in were the influential businesspeople from Harbor City.
The leader of the group was a man who looked like he was in his 60s. He was wearing a suit and looked lean. However, when he talked, he was oozing with the air of a successful man and looked like he was full of charisma.
Next to him were a young man and a young woman. The man was chewing gum while looking slovenly.
The woman was very beautiful and looked so charming it was as if she had been blessed by heaven. The moment she appeared, she attracted the attention of a lot of people.
The woman was looking around in the venue as if she was looking for someone.
Immediately, her eyes landed on Jasper. She smiled softly, greeting him from afar.
Jasper smiled back at her as a response.
“Do you know each other?”
Wendy was particularly sensitive about this.
“Not really. I only met her once,” Jasper replied honestly.
“She’s pretty, right?” Wendy asked with a grin.
“So-so. I don’t feel anything looking at her. Anyone would just be a pretty shell compared to you.”
When Wendy got this answer that filled her with the will to live, she finally displayed a genuine smile. She was pleased with Jasper’s tactfulness.
Zayden looked into the eyes of the slovenly man from a distance. When he saw the other party gesturing an ‘ok’ to him, he let out a huge sigh of relief before turning around to look for Jasper.
When he saw Jasper and Wendy bantering flirtatiously with each other, his eyes darkened and he turned his head around with a scoff.
The emcee got on stage during the commotion and patted the microphone. After everyone was silent, he said, “Welcome everyone. I will be hosting the auction today.
“Plus, the returning millionaire investor from Harbor City, Mr. Zachary Law, his eldest son, Henry Law, and daughter, Anna Law, will be watching from one side.”
After knowing the identity of the businesspeople from Harbor City, an uproar started among the millionaires from the province.
Everyone knew that the businesspeople from Harbor City were extremely influential, but they had no idea it was the number one wealthiest family in Harbor City—the Laws.
It could be said that the Laws were one of the friendliest families to Mainland among the top millionaires in Harbor City. Their old master, Tom Law, and the leaders of Capital City had a very close relationship.
They could not compete with Old Master Law in terms of status and position.
The emcee comforted everyone’s emotions. Then, he said, “So, let’s start the auction now. There is only one thing being auctioned off today and it’s a piece of 16-acre land at the south bank of the Southface River. Plus, it comes with the rights to develop the entire south bank of the Southface River as a whole.
“The details of the land are already on everyone’s tables. I’m sure everyone has already looked into this, so let’s not waste any more time and start now. The base price is 300 million dollars. Each bid increment should not be less than one million dollars.”
“300 million!”
After the emcee finished saying that, someone raised their paddle immediately.
Everyone at the scene smiled knowingly. Everyone knew in their hearts that they were just here to watch the auction.
The main characters would either be the Hanks or the Schulers.
The wealth and power of the rest present were just slightly below these two families.
“400 million.”
Indeed, Zayden called out right after.
The person who called out 300 million gave in quickly.
It was harmless to call out a starting price. If the Hanks had already joined, then it would be offensive to continue bidding.
“500 million.”
Jasper started raising his paddle without disappointing the others.
The auction had just started and both of them came with guns blazing.
Everyone started watching the show like obedient little kids. No one dared to interrupt the fight between the two families right now.
Zayden looked at Jasper and smiled coldly. He had the promise of the businessman from Harbor City, so he was not afraid of spending money.
“600 million!”
Zayden raised his paddle again.
“650 million.”
“700 million!”
Zayden quickly called out and turned his head to smile coldly at Jasper. He said, “Don’t come and bid like other people if you don’t have money. Why don’t you take a look at yourself first?”
“He’s deliberately infuriating you.” Wendy pulled Jasper’s sleeve.
“I know,” Jasper replied nonchalantly.
“So what should we do? Our limit is 900 million. I don’t think he’ll give up based on his attitude,” Wendy said worriedly.
“710 million.” Jasper lifted his paddle again.
Zayden simply stood up and pointed at Jasper before laughing coldly. He said, “Did you run out of money? Where’s the fun in increasing just ten million? I’m going to call for one billion!
“Increase if you have the balls!”
After one billion was called out, it caused an uproar in the crowd.
This price was more than what everyone had expected.
Everyone turned their heads to Jasper.
No one knew whether he would be enraged by the bid increment.
“What are we gonna do?” Wendy asked anxiously.
There were no changes in Jasper’s expression. He shook his head and said, “It’s out of our price range.”
“You said the land development rights are very important…” Wendy said hurriedly.
“Don’t worry.” Jasper patted Wendy’s hand. “I have a way.”
Wendy finally felt at ease after Jasper said that.
It had been proven that as long as Jasper said he had a plan, he would never disappoint her.
“One billion going twice. Are there any more bids?”
The emcee’s voice kept coming from the stage.
Everyone below the stage was quiet. No one expected the Hanks to win with an overwhelming advantage when they thought they would witness an intense battle between the giants.
Zayden cackled furiously as he pointed at Jasper. “Aren’t you extremely capable? Raise your paddle! Raise your paddle and continue the bid! I can kill you with just my money! You’re still too young to play with me!”
Almost immediately after Zayden said that, Jasper’s voice reverberated across the hall.
“1.2 billion.”
There was a hint of confidence that would not lose to others in his nonchalance.
Everyone widened their eyes to look over at him. When they thought Jasper was admitting defeat, he brashly called out 200 million to depress the price.
“Jasp, aren’t we letting this go?” Wendy asked in a small voice. She was confused about what Jasper was doing now.
“Since the Hanks are so rich, then we’ll make them pay a few hundred million extra,” Jasper said and smiled softly.
Wendy’s gaze looked dazed. She looked at him as if to tell him ‘You’re so mean’. She could not control the smile forming on her lips, and it was saying ‘I love this’.
Jasper looked at Zayden who had abruptly stopped cackling and was now looking like a duck that had been grabbed by the throat. A cold and calm smile then appeared on his lips.
The smile on Jasper’s lips looked like a blatant provocation to Zayden, and it was stomping completely on his dignity.
It was as if what he did just now was just clownery.
“1.2 billion! Going once!” The emcee’s voice sounded.
The corners of Zayden’s lips twitched. He smirked malevolently and said, “Don’t be so pleased with yourself. Do you think you can win with just 1.2 billion? Are you even qualified to compare wealth with the Hanks?”
Life at the Top Chapter 97
“We can’t allow any mishaps for this auction.”
Zayden remembered the call he received from Sylva before he left the house.
The businessman from Harbor City had high hopes in them, and since they already had his support, the Hanks family had gathered most of their liquid funds for this.
Zayden had a huge volume of bargaining chips in his hand.
His dignity did not allow him to lose. Even though 1.5 billion was out of his budget, he was enraged as he gritted his teeth and called out, “1.5 billion!”
Zayden’s expression was near malevolent.
Everyone’s jaws dropped when they heard this price.
He also heard people sucking in their breaths.
At this moment, everyone had the same thought in their heads. The Hanks were not treating money like money.
“1.5 billion! Is there more? 1.5 billion going once!”
The emcee’s voice started to sound excited.
“1.5 billion going twice!”
Zayden chuckled and said to Jasper almost morbidly, “Go on. Why are you not increasing the price? Huh? Go on if you have the balls! I don’t f*cking believe that you have the money to bid until two billion!”
On the stage, Zachary turned his head and asked the person next to him, “Who’s that person who called out 1.2 billion?”
Immediately, someone leaned down next to his ear and said respectfully, “Mr. Law, he’s from JW Real Estates and belongs to the Schulers.”
Zachary nodded and looked at Jasper profoundly. Then, he said meaningfully, “This young man is pretty interesting.”
Henry got closer to him and said to Zachary, “Dad, the other man is called Zayden Hanks. I told you about him before. The young man you mentioned just now is obviously scared of Zayden’s bid increment. How unpromising. He’s terrified by just this.”
Zachary said in a mocking voice, “He’s walking the dog. Can’t you see that?”
Henry’s expression froze.
“With just one sentence, he made the person you recommended pay 500 million extra. If you had half of his skill, then I wouldn’t have to come here myself,” Zachary lectured.
“I’m sorry, Dad,” Henry said, his face turning dark.
“1.5 billion! Sold! We have reached a deal. Congratulations to Hanks Investments Co., Ltd. for the winning bid!”
The emcee slammed the gavel down. Once the gavel sounded, it signified there would be no amendments.
Everyone sighed, and some were sighing ruefully.
The Hanks were indeed powerful.
Zayden was cackling maniacally, and Jasper was silent.
“You useless piece of trash, why didn’t you increase the price? I told you that you’re useless. Did Dawson not give you enough money?” Zayden cackled and said.
“Right, it’s not like Dawson can take out so much money either. Do you think you can rest easy and live your life with no worries after finding a rich wife? Let me tell you today that you’re nothing compared to me, you piece of trash!” Zayden chortled maniacally and said.
Jasper was still staying silent. His interest in fooling around with Zayden was long gone.
To him, Zayden was no different than a barking dog right now.
At this moment, Zachary and his group got up to leave now that the auction was over.
When everyone at the auction was about to leave, Jasper got up suddenly and walked toward Zachary and his group.
“Stop!”
The Laws’ bodyguards quickly jumped to stop Jasper. They were looking at him cautiously.
“Mr. Law, I wish to talk to you.”
Life at the Top Chapter 98
Jasper said directly.
However, it was as if Zachary did not hear him and was already getting up to leave.
“Jasper, are you insane? Who do you think you are? You even want to talk to Mr. Law? F*ck off if you don’t have the money! Who the hell wants to talk to you?” Zayden cackled maniacally and said.
Jasper did not pay attention to Zayden who was acting like a mad dog right now. At this critical moment, Jasper looked at Anna and said, “Miss Law, just think of this as me owing you a favor.”
Anna frowned. She did not understand what Jasper was trying to do, but for some reason, she grabbed her father.
“Dad, let’s hear what he has to say.”
Zachary looked at his daughter in surprise. Then, he shifted his gaze to Jasper and said, “Young man, I’m just a spectator for this auction. It’s useless to talk to me.”
“It’s a fact that the gavel has already fallen for this auction, but I want to talk to you about another major business,” Jasper said confidently.
On one side, Henry was feeling pissed because he was lectured earlier by his father due to Jasper. As such, he said immediately, “What major business can there be? Stop wasting our time. Go away.”
“Henry, Dad has not spoken yet, so why are you interrupting?” Anna said bluntly.
Henry was fuming. He did not expect an outside like Jasper to cause him to be lectured by his father and his little sister to roll her eyes at him.
However, even if he was the big brother, he was genuinely scared of his sister who was extremely tough ever since she was younger. He also knew that his position in his father’s heart could not compare to his sister’s, so he shut his mouth quickly.
“Young man, you have good skills. Why don’t we do this? I’m going to get into the car and go back to the hotel. You can talk to me during the journey.” After Zachary said that, he walked forward.
Jasper followed after him, and this time, the bodyguards did not stop him.
Anna gave Jasper her seat so he could sit with her father.
Jasper looked at her appreciatively and said, “Mr. Law, the rich and powerful in Harbor City stand in great numbers, but to me, the Laws are the only big shots.”
Jasper was not buttering Zachary up at all when he said that.
Old Master Law was an upright person. Back when Harbor City returned to the sovereignty of Mainland, because of the Laws’ full support, they were beaten down by the authorities so all they got were some strenuous and unrewarding businesses that were not profitable anymore.
However, Old Master Law carried them all on his shoulders.
After the handover, Old Master Law was the first one to go back to Mainland for investment. Basically, he had focused on people’s welfare and infrastructure. His first consideration was not profits but the improvement of everyone’s living conditions.
Based on this alone, Old Master Law was a senior who Jasper looked up to no matter in this life or his previous life.
After Zachary heard that, he chuckled and said, “Thank you for the compliments, but is this related to what you want to say to me? I’m sorry, but you don’t have much time.”
“Mr. Law, I can help you earn back the nine billion your family lost during the financial crisis in the year of the handover!”
After he said this, Zachary stopped. The three family members shifted their gazes to Jasper.
Even the expression of the leader of the city hall standing next to them changed.
‘Jasper Laine, what nonsense are you spewing? It’s easy to talk big, but if you can’t do it and infuriate the Laws, then it’ll be such an undeserved catastrophe.’
However, Jasper’s expression did not change. He was looking straight into Zachary’s examining eyes without giving in.
After the handover, the Terra financial crisis swept through Southeast Terra and a lot of countries suffered terrible losses. Even though Harbor City was depending on Mainland, so they did not suffer too much of a loss, the Laws lost nearly tens of billions of Harbor Dollars to save the economy of Harbor City.
It was because of this loss, the Laws were slightly worse off than the current influential big four families.
Plus, it would be extremely difficult for them to catch up.
Even though the Laws did not regret this, they knew the pain they had been through.
However, Jasper was now saying he could save them from this crisis and Zachary could not help but feel moved.
“Young man, do you know what will happen if you go back on your promise?” Zachary asked.
Jasper got close to Zachary’s ear and whispered, “Mr. Law, I’m the individual shareholder for crude oil futures back then.”
Finally, there were changes in Zachary’s expression.
It was because Jasper had already proved to him that he was as good as his word.
“What do you want out of this?” Zachary looked at Jasper.
“A collaboration with the Laws. You don’t have to invest anything because this collaboration will be profitable to both sides, including the development project for the south bank of the Southface River.”
Life at the Top Chapter 99
“Young man, you have a huge appetite.” Zachary laughed.
“Do you know how big the Laws are?”
Jasper lifted his eyebrow. Even if he combined himself with Schuler Group, he would still be nothing to the Laws. This was the truth.
However, businessmen were all about profit. Zachary was testing him with that question, so Jasper absolutely could not back down. He also could not show any fear.
“However, the market in Mainland is bigger. It’s able to devour the Laws without even causing a ripple.”
Zachary guffawed at what Jasper said.
“Young man, I’m seriously interested in you now. Not bad. Not bad at all.”
Henry mumbled at one side, “Dad, he’s just talking big and you’re listening to him? He wants to collaborate comprehensively with us with his qualifications? Does he have the money and the skills?”
Zachary glared at Henry and said, “Your grandfather started from nothing and used only 200 Harbor Dollars to start a business which then led to where we are now. Just because he doesn’t have the capital now, who’s to say he won’t have it in the future?
“Next time, stop mingling with those gang of scoundrels you call your friends. You didn’t learn any skills but instead, you learned how to put on airs.”
Zachary’s words caused Henry to hide to one side while hanging his head low.
Zachary handed a name card to Jasper. “I’ll be staying in Sheraton these few days. You’re welcome to come and look for me.”
Jasper caught a glimpse of visible admiration in Zachary’s eyes. He smiled and said, “The one who comes after you will definitely be the one visiting.”
“Good!”
Zachary patted Jasper on the shoulder.
First, he gave Jasper his name card, and after that, he invited Jasper to the hotel he was staying in. Now, he was even patting Jasper’s shoulder like he was Jasper’s elder.
All three of these moves looked extremely shocking to anyone with aspirations.
Zachary had great expectations toward people, so no ordinary person would be able to catch his eye. His favoring of someone from a younger generation like Jasper had never happened before.
Of course, Zachary did not forget Jasper’s request. He turned around and said to the leader of the city hall, “I think this young man has a bright future. If I can work with him on the amusement park project, then the Laws would not need to worry about the future consequences. I can sign the investment agreement with you later.”
How would the leader of the city hall not understand what Zachary was saying?
It was either they let Jasper do this or he would invest in another place!
This multiple-choice question was too easy!
The leaders of the city hall looked at each other and nodded quickly to show that they would consider this.
At this moment, a roar of disbelief ripped through the air.
“Wait! Mr. Law, wait!”
Zayden barged over wildly but was stopped by the Laws’ bodyguards.
He struggled with his life and yelled as if he was going insane, “You promised to work with the Hanks! We’ve bought the land and land development rights for 1.5 billion, so how can you abandon us now?”
Zachary furrowed his brows and glared at his son, Henry. “What did you promise him?”
Investment and cooperation were serious business. If Henry dared to go over his father’s head and selfishly promise something to someone else, then this would be a huge crime of disrespecting the elders of the Laws.
Henry was so scared that he was speaking in Harborese now. “Dad, don’t listen to him. I just promised that I’d recommend the Hanks to you. I never told him that we’ll work with them.”
Although Henry was a useless spoiled kid from a rich family, he genuinely did not dare to act recklessly in terms of these major businesses.
Zachary’s expression looked slightly better, and he ignored Zayden. With his status and position, there was no need for Zachary to pay attention to him.
“Young man, I’ll wait for you.” After Zachary said that, he left with his group.
“Stop! Stop right there!” Zayden roared as if he was going insane.
“Henry Law! I’ve been serving you these few days like a f*cking dog and now you’re ignoring me?”
Life at the Top Chapter 100
Henry was feeling guilty and was about to leave. However, when he heard that, his expression changed as he stared at Zayden before saying savagely, “Do you believe that I’ll kill you if you keep spewing nonsense?”
Zayden almost crushed his teeth into pieces when he saw Henry’s aggressive face. He said in bitter resentment, “1.5 billion! We spent 1.5 billion and that’s it? Impossible!”
“Damn it, it’s not a done deal anyway. You can just not pay and treat the bid as void. You’ll only lose the 50 million cash deposit that way.” Henry spat out before turning around to leave.
“I’m leaving too,” Anna smiled and said to Jasper.
“Thank you, I owe you one,” Jasper said sincerely.
Anna covered her mouth and chuckled. She did not care how many people were ogling her because of her lovely charms right now. She said, “Owe it then, just remember to pay.”
After she said that, Anna walked away as if she was walking on air.
At this moment, Anna and the Laws had no idea how huge of a profit this favor would bring.
Everyone had left while Zayden and Jasper were the only ones left. Meanwhile, Zayden was gasping for air with a pale look on his face.
“Jasper, you planned this from the start!”
Zayden glared at Jasper with bitter resentment.
“You’re the one who raised the paddle and you’re the one who called out the price. So, how can you say I’m the one who planned this?” Jasper said nonchalantly.
“Stop pretending to be f*cking stupid!”
Zayden almost pounced on Jasper to sink his teeth into him.
“The 1.2 billion you called out was to make me increase the price so that I’ll go into a dead end! It’s because you’re in cahoots with these Harbor City fckers from the start! You will fcking die a horrible death!”
Zayden roared maniacally, the bitter resentment in his eyes almost turning substantive.
Jasper walked in front of Zayden, and because of their difference in height, Jasper was slightly towering over Zayden when he looked at him.
“If I were you, I would be thinking about what I should do now. Do you think you can solve the problem by throwing a tantrum like a dumb*ss?”
Zayden gritted his teeth and roared furiously. “I won’t let you get your way! I’ve already won the land development rights! I won’t give them to anyone!”
“Take them, then.”
Jasper said, “How difficult do you think it is to develop the north bank if JW Real Estates work with the Laws?”
Zayden felt as if he had been struck by lightning after Jasper said this. His entire body shook, and he almost collapsed to the floor.
“Plus, the Hanks had lost one billion before, and now, they’re losing 1.5 billion again. I want to know how much money the Hanks have for a prodigal like you to waste.”
Jasper got slightly closer to Zayden’s ear and chuckled lightly. Then, he continued, “You’re such an enlightened prodigal.”
Zayden could not hold it in anymore after he heard this. He yelled shrilly and felt a heavy weight on his chest. Then, he opened his mouth and vomited blood. After that, his eyes rolled back and he passed out on the floor.
Jasper did not think that his words had so much power. He quickly asked someone to call 911 to carry Zayden away.
After he did that, Jasper walked out of the venue. Wendy was gently pushing back her hair that had been messed up by the wind outside.
“It’s done!”
Jasper placed his hands behind his back and walked to Wendy as he said with a smile.
“How should I reward you?” Wendy’s eyes were shining with admiration and surprise while she asked.
“You, of course!”
Wendy was shocked and bashful. Before she could say anything, Jasper said, “Your smile is the best reward for me.”
At this moment, Wendy’s smile was like a blossoming flower. She felt as if she was the luckiest woman in the world.