Building a Business Empire with my Technological System

Chapter 175: The Security Firm

"Ghost, you disappoint me," Wei said through the phone, who was in line with the sniper he hired to exterminate Michael.

"The target veered off the moment I pulled the trigger—"

"Ghost, I am really curious about how you failed that shot, but not right now," Wei interrupted sharply, cutting off any excuses. "I want you to finish the contract, or otherwise," he paused, letting the threat hang in the air, "consider your position with us severely compromised."

Ghost clenched his jaw, the weight of the failure bearing down on him. He was not accustomed to missing his mark, and Wei's lack of confidence was a blow to his professional pride.

"I understand, Mr. Wei. It won't happen again. I'll handle it," Ghost responded, his voice firm with renewed determination.

Wei's response was curt. "See that you do. We can't afford any more mistakes. The stakes are higher than you realize."

He ended the call abruptly, leaving Ghost to stare at the now-silent phone. The sniper's mind raced as he contemplated his next move. The job had to be done swiftly and cleanly this time—no more unexpected deviations. Michael was still in the city, recovering, but not for long if Ghost had anything to say about it.

Turning back to his equipment, Ghost meticulously checked his rifle, ensuring that everything was perfectly calibrated. He couldn't afford another mistake. Not with Wei's threat echoing in his mind and the weight of the contract hanging over him. The next few days were critical, and Ghost knew he had to act fast to redeem himself.

***

At the Golden Topper construction site.

Michael walked alongside Mr. Chow around the site.

"As you can see, the construction is on schedule, and we're making excellent progress," Mr. Chow explained, his voice competing with the hum of machinery around them. "The piling work for the foundation is complete, and we've started with the caisson installation for deeper structural integrity."

Michael nodded, observing the bustling activity around the skyscraper site. Workers maneuvered around steel rebar frameworks that protruded from massive concrete blocks.

"We've also implemented the latest in high-tensile steel for the superstructure, which will provide enhanced resistance against seismic forces," Chow continued, pointing towards a crane hoisting a large beam into place. "Our load-bearing calculations suggest optimal stress distribution throughout the skeleton."

"That's reassuring, especially considering the potential for high wind loads in this area," Michael commented, his gaze following the beam as it settled into position.

"Absolutely, Mr. Reyes," Chow agreed. "We've also integrated a curtain wall system that exceeds current energy efficiency standards. It features a unitized panel system for quicker installation and better thermal performance."

Michael was impressed. "Good to hear that, Chow. How are we doing with the subcontractors? Any issues on that front?"

"So far, so good. The electrical and plumbing subcontractors are on track. We've used modular wiring to accelerate our timelines and reduce on-site labor requirements," Chow responded, flipping through a digital tablet that displayed various project metrics. "And for plumbing, we're implementing a new siphonic drainage system that should significantly enhance our stormwater management capabilities."

"Excellent," Michael said, satisfied with the progress. "Keep me updated, especially if there are any deviations from the schedule. It's crucial we stay on track."

"Will do, Mr. Reyes. Anyways, how are you feeling? It seems like you're managing well despite the circumstances."

Michael gave a small smile, trying to look as composed as possible.

"I'm doing as well as can be expected, Mr. Chow. The sniper is still on the loose, but I'm staying focused on work and recovery. We can't let this slow us down."

Mr. Chow nodded in agreement, his respect for Michael's resilience clear in his expression.

"Absolutely, Mr. Reyes. We'll keep things moving smoothly here, and make sure to accommodate any of your needs during your recovery."

While they were in the middle of their conversation, Juliet was looking for Michael, and she spotted him from across the construction site. She briskly walked over to them, her expression urgent.

"Michael, there's a situation we need to discuss privately," Juliet announced as she approached.

"Mr. Chow, I'll have to excuse myself for a moment," Michael said apologetically to Mr. Chow, who nodded understandingly before returning to supervise the construction activities.

Michael followed Juliet to a quieter part of the site, away from the din of ongoing construction.

"What's the update, Juliet?" Michael asked as soon as they were out of earshot.

"I've found a security firm based in the US that could meet our needs," Juliet began, pulling up details on her tablet. "They specialize in high-threat protection environments. The team is composed of former special forces, rangers, and other elite military units. They have extensive experience in both domestic and international security operations."

Michael listened intently, his eyes scanning the information on the tablet. "They are good, how much are they going to cost to hire?"

"Well, their service package includes a comprehensive risk assessment, 24/7 personal security details, and crisis management training for our team," Juliet explained. "The initial quote is based on a retainer model, which includes a monthly fee that covers all operational costs, salaries, and any incidental expenses that may arise during their deployment."

Michael raised an eyebrow, signaling her to continue.

"The retainer fee is substantial but considering their credentials and the level of security they're offering, it seems justifiable," Juliet added. "Especially given our current threat level. They also offer a flexible payment option that allows us to scale the services based on actual threat assessments and needs, which could help manage costs more effectively."

"Sounds like a solid investment, given our circumstances," Michael commented thoughtfully. "Do they require any upfront costs, or can we integrate them into our quarterly security budget adjustments?"

"They've requested a standard upfront commitment to mobilize and deploy their team, but the majority of the costs can indeed be integrated into our quarterly budget," Juliet replied. "This will give us some time to assess their effectiveness and adjust our contract based on performance and ongoing risk evaluations."

"That works for me. Set up an initial meeting with them. I want to go through their operation plans personally and understand their chain of command," Michael said decisively.

"Understood."

***

Two days later, Michael entered a conference room in his office building, prepared for the crucial meeting. He was about to meet with John Carter, CEO of Sentinel Security Solutions, a renowned paramilitary security firm based in the US.

John Carter was a man of average height, with a military bearing that spoke of years in service before transitioning to private security. His hair was closely cropped, peppered with gray, and he had a firm, reassuring handshake that matched his confident gaze.

"Mr. Reyes, it's good to finally meet you in person," John said, his voice carrying the assertive tone of someone accustomed to command.

"Thank you for coming, Mr. Carter. I've looked forward to discussing how Sentinel can help secure our operations," Michael replied, motioning for John to take a seat at the table.

As they both sat down, John laid out a folder containing the operational plans and security details that his firm could implement for Michael's enterprises.

"Our approach is comprehensive," John began, spreading out several documents in front of Michael. "We start with a full risk assessment, followed by implementing a layered security strategy that includes physical, electronic, and human elements. Our goal is to create a security envelope that moves with you and adapts to any threat dynamically."

Michael nodded, examining the documents. "Well this is a lot of formal words and I don't understand how this will play out for a sniper that tried to kill me a few days ago."

John Carter nodded, acknowledging Michael's concerns with a serious expression.

"Let me explain how we address such direct threats," he said, shifting in his seat to better address the specific issues. "Our team includes counter-sniper strategies and surveillance countermeasures, which are designed to detect and neutralize threats before they can act."

He pointed to a chart in the folder that outlined various security layers. "For example, we employ advanced reconnaissance and intelligence gathering to predict and prevent such attacks. Our team uses everything from drone surveillance to ground intelligence to ensure your safety."

Michael leaned forward, his interest piqued by the mention of high-tech solutions. "And in terms of immediate response?"

"We have rapid response teams trained specifically for such scenarios," John continued. "These teams are equipped and ready to deploy at a moment's notice, ensuring that any attempt is thwarted quickly. Moreover, our personnel are trained to blend in with your existing security detail to provide a seamless protection service without drawing unnecessary attention."

"That's impressive," Michael admitted, feeling a bit more reassured. "Well let's see what you got then. The previous security firm that I hired failed to prevent such an attack and therefore our contract was terminated immediately. I expect Sentinel Security Solutions to fill those gaps effectively."

"Absolutely, Mr. Reyes. We not only aim to fill those gaps but to exceed your expectations. Our operative protocol is to be proactive rather than just reactive. This means we anticipate threats before they materialize and take necessary preventive measures."

"Okay…we have a deal now, protect me and be rewarded handsomely," Michael said.