Building a Business Empire with my Technological System

Chapter 174: The Reassurance

Two days later, in the serene atmosphere of his penthouse, Michael sat quietly on the plush sofa, the panoramic windows offering a view of the bustling city below. The room was suffused with soft, comforting light, enhancing the tranquil setting.

Doctor Salazar, his physician, was meticulously examining the healing wound on Michael's shoulder. The doctor's movements were gentle, ensuring minimal discomfort.

"Looks like you're healing well, Mr. Reyes," Doctor Salazar commented as he adjusted the lighting to get a better view. "However, I'd still recommend keeping any physical activity to a minimum for a few more days to ensure there's no undue strain on your shoulder."

Michael nodded, appreciating the doctor's thoroughness. "I understand, Doctor. I'll take it easy. Have there been any updates on the medication regimen?"

Doctor Salazar checked his tablet, scrolling through the medical notes. "I'm keeping you on the current course of antibiotics and pain management. We should review your progress again in the next few days to decide if any adjustments are necessary."

"Thank you, Doctor," Michael replied and continued. "I appreciate your help through this."

With a final nod, Dr. Salazar packed his medical bag. "Just make sure to call me if you notice any changes or if there's an increase in pain. Otherwise, I'll see you for another follow-up."

As Dr. Salazar left the penthouse, Michael turned his gaze back to his laptop. He may have been injured from the attempted assassination but businesses won't run for themselves. With a deep breath, he opened his email, his inbox flooded with messages ranging from business updates to expressions of concern from colleagues and partners.

Sorting through the emails, Michael prioritized communications related to security updates and ongoing projects that couldn't be delayed. His focus was sharp; despite the physical discomfort, his mind remained as active as ever. He replied succinctly to each, ensuring his team was aligned and that operations continued smoothly despite his temporary setback.

And then after an hour, there was a knock on the door.

"Who's that?"

"It's Juliet, and I have two people with me that want to see you," Juliet informed.

"Okay, let them in," Michael responded, setting aside his laptop to brace for visitors. As the door opened wider, Michael's face softened at the sight of Bridget and his mother Myra entering the room. Both women, their faces etched with concern, moved swiftly toward him.

Myra rushed to his side, her eyes scanning his bandaged shoulder before she enveloped him in a gentle hug.

"Oh, Michael, how are you feeling, dear?"

"I'm doing okay, Mom. It's good to see you," Michael reassured her.

Bridget, more composed but no less worried, gave Michael a small, reassuring smile as she took a seat next to him.

"Sorry if I took about two days to get here. It took some time convincing our partners in Europe about your safety and the measures we are taking to secure our operations," Bridget explained and added. "But I'm here now."

"That's good to hear," Michael responded. "It's been a hectic few days trying to keep everything running smoothly from here."

Myra, still close by, looked between them both, her maternal concern evident.

"And what about the police? Are they doing enough to catch whoever did this?" she asked.

"They're working on it, Mom. Juliet just had a meeting with them. They've been asking a lot of questions, trying to piece everything together," Michael assured her, trying to alleviate her concerns.

Juliet approached. "Sir…the media are in the lobby, and they are on their way to talk to you. Do you want me to handle them, or would you like to give a statement?"

Michael sighed, considering the implications of facing the media. "Let's face them now. I want to speak to the public, and make it clear that I am fine."

"That is a right move, considering that most netizens are sympathizing with your

situation," Bridget noted, checking her phone briefly for social media updates. "It could reinforce the company's image of resilience and your leadership."

Michael nodded, his determination firming. "Yes, and it's important to reassure our employees and stakeholders that we're maintaining control."

Juliet nodded, understanding the strategy. "I'll coordinate with the security team to make sure everything is set for your appearance. We'll keep it brief and to the point."

"Thank you, Juliet."

As Juliet exited to prepare, Myra placed her hand gently on Michael's arm. "Be careful, Michael. Don't push yourself too hard."

Michael offered her a reassuring smile. "I will, Mom. Don't worry."

With everything in motion, Michael took a few moments to gather his thoughts, preparing his key points for the statement.

A short while later, Juliet returned to announce that everything was prepared. "We're ready when you are, Michael."

Standing up with a measured effort, Michael adjusted his posture, mentally bracing himself for the cameras and the questions that would follow. Bridget and Myra stood by his side, their presence a comforting assurance as he made his way to the designated area where the press had been assembled.

"Uhm…we only need to speak with Mr. Reyes, the two of you please step aside for a moment."

A security officer directed Bridget and Myra as they approached the area where the media was gathered.

Myra looked slightly hesitant, but Bridget gave her a reassuring nod.

"We'll be right over here, Michael," Bridget said, gesturing to a nearby area within sight but out of the main camera view. Michael gave them a grateful look, squeezing his mother's hand before she stepped back with Bridget.

Michael took his position in front of the microphones, the bright lights of the cameras casting sharp shadows around him. Reporters from various media outlets were lined up, their microphones bearing different logos all pointed towards him. The murmur of anticipation among the journalists quieted as he cleared his throat, ready to address the crowd.

"Thank you all for coming on such short notice," Michael began, his voice steady despite the underlying strain. "I want to address the incident that occurred two days ago. I am here, I am okay, and more importantly, I am not going anywhere.

The attack was a shock, but it has not deterred us. We are cooperating fully with the police investigation, and we are committed to ensuring such an incident never happens again. I have complete faith in our security measures and the enhancements we're currently implementing.

As for our business, SolaraTech and all associated companies remain on track. Our projects continue to advance, and our commitment to innovation and safety is stronger than ever.

The reporters started to throw questions, ranging from inquiries about security specifics to the impact on business operations. Michael answered each succinctly, maintaining his composure and directing the narrative with skill, keeping the details vague enough to ensure security but clear enough to reassure the public and stakeholders.

As for who is behind this, I leave it to the law enforcement to find the perpetrator. We believe in justice and are sure that it will be served," he concluded, signaling an end to the session as he thanked the media once more.

***

Meanwhile, somewhere far from the Philippines.

"He is not dead yet…"