Building a Business Empire with my Technological System

Chapter 77  A Heated Argument

On February 10th, 2024, Michael found himself deeply involved in the logistics of setting up SolaraTech's new office within the Philippine Stock Exchange Tower. The day was bustling with activity as furniture movers navigated through the space, carefully placing desks, chairs, and filing cabinets as per the floor plan Michael had meticulously prepared.

Michael was hands-on throughout the process, guiding the movers to ensure that each area of the office was set up for optimal functionality. He paid particular attention to the research and development section, envisioning it as the heart of SolaraTech's innovation. He imagined the space filled with his team, working tirelessly on new projects that would push the boundaries of renewable energy technology. Of course, he was not the only one present in the office. Bridget and Antoneitte were also there, watching Michael supervise the whole thing.

"You should take a break Michael," Bridget suggested. "You have been working since morning without a pause. You need to rest."

Michael, focused on the task at hand, barely glanced up from his work. "I will, soon. Just want to make sure everything is perfect before we officially start operating from here," he replied.

"Well if you had put your office in our building this wouldn't have been necessary," Antoinette interjected with a light-hearted tone, attempting to ease the tension and fatigue evident in Michael's demeanor. "Our maintenance team could have handled all this setup."

Michael offered a small chuckle, appreciating the banter despite the stress of the day. "I know, Mrs. Estolas, but as I said before, SolaraTech should have its own office."

"I'm just saying…" Antoneitte giggled when suddenly the office door swung open, revealing a young woman with a serious demeanor. "I'm sorry mama for being tardy, we got stuck in the rush hour."

Antoinette raised an eyebrow, a hint of curiosity in her voice as she looked at her daughter. "We? Who were you with?"

Catherine, seemingly unfazed by the question, simply replied, "Oh, it was Joshua. He offered to pick me up from my place and drive me here. You know how unpredictable the traffic can get around this time."

Antoinette nodded, her expression softening. "That was thoughtful of him. How is he doing?"

"He's good, really busy with his new project, but he wanted to make sure I got here safely," Catherine explained. Antoinette turned to Michael and spoke. "Michael, are you aware of the man named Joshua?" "I am, I believe he is the youngest CEO here in the Philippines, building his business by selling potato chips. It was quite remarkable from him," Michael praised, though inwardly he doesn't feel genuinely interested. "He's made quite a name for himself in a completely different industry. It's impressive."

Antoinette nodded in agreement. "Yes, it's always inspiring to see young entrepreneurs succeed. It's a testament to the vibrant business ecosystem we have here in the Philippines. Speaking of Joshua, why don't you invite him over here? Is he still here?" "Uhm…he is in the parking, willing to wait for me to finish here," Catherine replied, checking her phone for any messages from Joshua.

"That's quite dedicated of him. Why don't we invite him up? It would be good to meet someone making waves in such a different sector. Plus, it could be an interesting conversation," Michael suggested, though he isn't that interested in Joshua. He just wants him to see how far he has come from a student to an entrepreneur who is the CEO of a company that is making high-efficiency advanced and futuristic solar panels.

Catherine seemed hesitant at first but then nodded, texting Joshua the invitation to come up. "Okay, I'll let him know we're inviting him up."

A few minutes later, Joshua arrived. As expected, he looked handsome in his casual attire which consisted of jeans and a crisp, white button-down shirt, exuding a relaxed yet professional vibe.

"It's good to finally meet you again, Joshua," Michael said, extending his hand, and offering a handshake.

Joshua briefly looked at his hand and then seconds later, he shook Michael's. "Yeah…I didn't expect you would come this far." "Yup solar panels," Michael said. "I just have my own office here in this very building. And I think I'll grow more." "You deserve it. After all, you have worked hard on it," Joshua said flatly. "Yeah, I know…You know what, in the future, I'm planning on starting a company in the food industry. Like your potato chips but instead…it's going to be a water spinach chips company," Michael continued, trying to gauge Joshua's reaction to his new venture idea.

"Why don't you just stay in your industry?" Joshua's question caught Michael off guard. "I'm always looking for new challenges and opportunities. Diversifying could not only spread the risk but also potentially open up new markets for us." "I see what you are doing here, Michael. I think it was your suggestion to invite me up here so you can rub my face that you are making big. Yeah, it won't take a genius to figure out what you are doing here Michael."

"Oi, why are you getting so confrontational? I'm just saying I'm interested in entering the food industry sometime in the future. Are you threatened by me? Don't be, I'm just a man who dreams big," Michael retorted.

Joshua raised an eyebrow, his expression unreadable. "I'm not threatened, Michael. I simply find it curious that you suddenly want to venture into the food industry, especially after establishing yourself in renewable energy. It seems like an abrupt shift in focus." "I didn't say I'm going to shift today, I'm saying I'm planning on it. Why don't you understand?" "Perhaps you are threatened by me," Joshua said. "I think you have a crush on Catherine and you wouldn't just say it. Right? Let's admit it. The first time I saw you, there was a flicker of disappointment that you saw me being with Catherine. There is this envy crossing your features." "Me threatened?" Michael scoffed softly. "How would I be threatened by a man who is the CEO of a potato chip company? Tell me," Michael countered, his tone tinged with incredulity.

Bridget, sensing the conversation spiraling out of control, stepped in with a gentle yet firm voice. "Gentlemen, let's maintain a level of professionalism here. I don't know what's between you two but I think you two have to stop." "Yeah…I'm surprised," Antoneitte said, slightly shocked. Catherine, who was feeling embarrassed after momentarily being the center of their argument, spoke. "Why are you two acting like a kid?" "I'm not a kid, Catherine," Michael said. "I wasn't the one who got out of control in the first place. It was your boyfriend. You know what…I think it's time I speak with my two investors. You two can wait here."

"No way I'm waiting here. I'm going to leave. After shaming me in front of everyone," Joshua retorted. "Your ego inflated just because you founded this company?" "My ego is inflated? Are you hearing your—" "Stop!" Catherine interjected. "This is getting out of hand. Both of you, calm down."

Michael and Joshua exchanged glares, but Catherine's interruption seemed to diffuse some of the tension in the room.

"Catherine, please escort Joshua out for a moment, I will talk to Michael," Antoinette said. "Yes, mama." After the two left, Antoinette turned her gaze to Michael.

"So, what happened there?"Nôv(el)B\\jnn