Building a Business Empire with my Technological System

Chapter 172: Speculation

"Try to keep the shoulder immobile for a few days, and avoid any strenuous activity," Dr. Salazar advised as he packed up his equipment. "I'll leave some painkillers and antibiotics for you. Make sure you complete the course of antibiotics to prevent any complications."

"Thank you, Doctor. I appreciate it," Michael replied.

With a nod, Dr. Salazar left the penthouse, and Juliet escorted him out, ensuring their privacy was maintained.

Once alone again, Michael ordered Juliet.

"Juliet, can you turn on the television for me?" Michael asked, feeling the need to catch up on the news, perhaps to see if there was any mention of the day's events or other clues that might be relevant. He settled deeper into the couch, adjusting his position carefully to minimize the pain from his wound.

Juliet picked up the remote and turned on the large flat-screen TV mounted on the wall across from them. She quickly navigated to a major news channel, where the regular evening news was just beginning.

"Breaking News! Just now, a young CEO, Michael Reyes, founder of the SolaraTech Corporation, Reyes Transportation Company, Reyes Pharmaceutical Company, and Reyes MedTech Solutions, was shot by an unknown assailant earlier today while leaving a high-profile event at the Peninsula Hotel in Manila," the news anchor reported with a grave tone.

"Authorities are currently investigating the incident, and no suspects have been apprehended. The motive behind the attack remains unclear, though police speculate it could be related to business rivalries."

Michael listened intently, his eyes narrowing at the details being broadcasted. This public disclosure meant the news of the attempt on his life was now a topic of national concern, possibly even international. Good thing that his companies were all private, so there was no need to concern himself about stock prices being affected.

However, the impact on partnerships and future business opportunities remained a significant concern. The allegations of business rivalries could cast a shadow over his corporate reputation.

"Can you believe this, Juliet? They're already speculating on motives. This could get messy," Michael muttered, his frustration evident. He knew that managing the narrative would be crucial in the coming days.

Juliet, still standing near the television, turned to face him. "Should I contact our PR team to prepare a statement, or would you prefer to wait until the police have more information?"

"Let's prepare a preliminary statement. Emphasize our cooperation with the authorities and commitment to security," Michael instructed. "Also, reach out to our security consultants. I want a full review of all personal and corporate security measures first thing in the morning."

"Understood," Juliet said, pulling out her phone to begin organizing his requests. As she stepped away to make some calls, Michael continued to watch the news.

There, a man in a police uniform, possibly high-ranking was being interviewed in front of the Peninsula.

"Mr. Reyes is to say, an exalted figure in the tech community. His companies have introduced some groundbreaking technologies that are indeed disruptive to traditional business models," the officer explained, his tone somewhat speculative.

"While we cannot confirm the motives without further investigation, it's possible that his prominence and the disruptive nature of his technology have made him a target for competitors who feel threatened."

The officer paused, scanning the gathered reporters. "However, I must emphasize that these are only speculations at this point. We have no concrete evidence that directly links any business rivalries to this attack. Our priority is Mr. Reyes's safety and the thorough investigation of this incident."

"Why the heck did the police like to make speculations?" Michael clicked his tongue in annoyance. "Now our competitors would definitely get the wrong idea and things could escalate."

Juliet returned to his side after finishing her calls. "I've briefed our PR team and they're drafting a statement that should help clarify things and mitigate some of the speculative damage. They'll emphasize our focus on innovation and our history of positive industry contributions."

"That's good," Michael nodded, still watching the screen as the news shifted to another segment. "Keep me updated on their progress and approve the final draft before it goes out."

"Will do," Juliet affirmed. She then hesitated, a look of concern crossing her face. "Michael, do you think this could really be about the disruptive nature of our tech, or is there a chance it's something more personal?"

Michael sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Honestly, Juliet, I don't know. I have made some companies mad because of our products but that's only it. I don't have any enemies personally. But in this industry, the lines can blur between professional and personal. It's sometimes hard to tell."

"I'll make sure our security team considers all angles. We'll also monitor any unusual communications or threats more closely."

"No, what we should do is to replace the security firm that we hired," Michael said. "They failed to protect me, so find a firm who are the best and the best, I don't care how much money it costs."

Juliet nodded, understanding the gravity of his directive. "I'll start reaching out to top security firms and arrange for some consultations right away. We need a team that can guarantee your safety and handle the type of risks we're facing now."

Just then, a sharp knock sounded at the door, breaking the flow of their discussion. Juliet looked up, a trace of concern crossing her face. She wasn't expecting anyone at this hour, especially given the day's events and the heightened security protocols they had just initiated.

"Who could that be?" Michael murmured, the discomfort evident in his tone as he shifted slightly to look towards the door.

Juliet moved towards the intercom by the entrance, pressing the button to communicate with the security desk downstairs. Before she could ask, her phone buzzed. She glanced at the screen—it was a message from one of their security team members stationed in the lobby.

"It's the police," she relayed to Michael. "They're here to speak with you, likely about today's incident."

Michael sighed.

"Let them in," he instructed, gesturing towards the door. "But make sure they don't turn this place upside down. We need to keep things as controlled as possible."

Juliet nodded, speaking briefly into the intercom to instruct the security to allow the police officers up to the penthouse. She then turned to Michael.

"I'll stay with you during the discussion. If you need anything—"

"I know, Juliet. Thank you," Michael interjected, managing a weak smile as he braced himself for another round of questions.