Building a Business Empire with my Technological System

Chapter 124: The Goliath vs David

"Mr. Reyes…Mr. Wei has arrived and is on the elevator as we speak," Juliet informed, prompting Michael to rise to his feet and straighten his suit. He took a deep breath, steadying his nerves for the crucial meeting ahead. His gaze swept across the room, ensuring everything was in place for a productive discussion.

The table was set with Filipino cuisine that would welcome the guests with a taste of local hospitality. An assortment of Filipino snacks was spread across the table, including puto (steamed rice cakes), bibingka (coconut rice cake), and ensaymada (soft, buttery pastries topped with cheese).

There were also bowls of kutsinta (sticky rice cakes), and alongside these, a platter of ripe mangoes, sliced and arranged artfully, added a vibrant splash of color to the array.

Michael had insisted on this touch of Filipino culture to set a warm, inviting tone for the meeting. He believed in the power of food to bring people together, soften the initial formalities, and ease into discussions with a more congenial atmosphere.

As Wei entered the room, his eyes briefly scanned the array of snacks before settling on Michael. The sight of the Filipino delicacies brought a slight, appreciative smile to his face, an acknowledgment of the gesture of hospitality.

"Mr. Wei, welcome," Michael greeted again, motioning towards the table. "I hope you'll enjoy some of our local snacks before we get down to business. It's a small token of our respect and hospitality."

Wei nodded, expressing his gratitude. "Thank you, Mr. Reyes. It's a thoughtful gesture. This is going to be my first time trying out some Filipino cuisine."

"Well, we could have opted for some Chinese food but knowing that you tasted it in your home country, I thought it would be a nice change of pace to offer you a taste of the Philippines," Michael continued, maintaining a light tone to keep the atmosphere relaxed and welcoming. "Please, feel free to help yourself."

As Wei sampled a piece of puto, his expression revealed a pleasant surprise. "This is quite delightful," he remarked, breaking the ice further between them.

Michael smiled, pleased at the positive reception. "I'm glad you think so. It's just one of the many ways we like to show our guests the warmth of Filipino hospitality."

With the ice broken, both men took their seats at the negotiation table, surrounded by the remaining snacks. The informal start seemed to have set a positive tone for the meeting, with both parties appearing more at ease.

Michael initiated the discussion. "Now, we both know that your company has engaged in an illegal act to break into our IT system."

Before Wei could react, Michael stopped him by continuing to talk. "Let's not beat around the bush, do not act innocent, we have proof, by which you have praised you have illegally obtained yet it's still evidence that cannot be ignored. However, today's focus isn't on casting blame but on finding a constructive path forward. So do we expect any sort of settlement?"

Wei scoffed softly and shook his head. "No, in fact, I will offer you the best offer that you won't regret accepting."

Wei flicked his finger and Li Hua walked forward, handing him a folder that Wei then extended towards Michael. The folder contained a comprehensive contract detailing a proposal for CinkoSolar to acquire SolaraTech based on its current market valuation. Michael, taken aback by the unexpected turn of events, took a moment to process the contents before him.

"An acquisition?" Michael voiced his surprise, his gaze lifting from the document to meet Wei's steady look.

Wei leaned back, a calm demeanor on display. "Yes, Mr. Reyes. We've given this considerable thought. SolaraTech's technology and market position are highly valuable to us, and we believe that integrating our companies can lead to a stronger, more competitive entity."

Michael flipped through the pages, each clause and figure indicating a well-thought-out proposal that recognized SolaraTech's worth. The offer was generous, reflecting not just the current value but also the potential growth synergies the merger could unlock.

"Yeah…but I don't think I can accept this proposal," Michael said, closing the folder down and throwing it on the table. "I'm not interested in selling my company to another company. If such a thing were to happen, it would be the other way around."

"Other way around?" Wei's brows furrowed.

"Like for example…I will be the one buying your company," Michael said.

Hearing that, Mr. Wei laughed out loud, the sound echoing slightly in the well-appointed conference room. "Mr. Reyes, with all due respect, that's quite an ambitious thought," he said, still chuckling. "Even with SolaraTech's advanced technology and market presence, you must understand, that CinkoSolar's resources, market reach, and financial stability far surpass what SolaraTech currently holds."

Michael, unphased by Wei's laughter, held his gaze steady. "Ambitious, yes, but not unfounded. We both know the tech industry is full of surprises. Being smaller or newer doesn't necessarily mean being weaker or less capable. It's all about leverage and strategic moves."

Wei's laughter subsided as he observed Michael's confident demeanor. "I admire your confidence, Mr. Reyes. But let's be realistic. Our valuation, our global footprint, our investment in R&D—these are not just numbers. They reflect our capability to lead and innovate in this industry.

Your proposal, while interesting, seems more like a fantasy."

Michael leaned forward, folding his hands on the table. "Fantasy or not, I believe in making the impossible possible. That's what SolaraTech has been doing since its inception. However, I didn't invite you here to argue about hypothetical acquisitions. Let's focus on resolving our current dispute in a way that benefits both parties without undermining either's value or potential.

How about this, you'll pay us a settlement and promise us to never engage in any illegal activities against our company again."

"You want us to pay you?" Wei asked, wanting clarification.

Michael simply nodded.

"What if I refuse?"

"Then all your illegal activities will be made public. You know how much damage it will cause to your company's reputation and how it will affect your standing in the market. Not to mention, legal actions that will follow," Michael stated plainly, his tone firm yet calm.

"Oh yeah…I don't think I'm scared to the point I will pay you for anything."

"Oh you will," Michael said, glancing at Juliet who was standing behind him. They exchanged a meaningful glance with one another and later, Juliet excused herself for a moment.

Moments later, she returned with another person.

Wei glanced over his shoulder and saw a familiar figure, his eyes widening in shock.

"It seems that I was signaled to enter," Bridget entered elegantly into the room, glancing at Wei.