Building a Business Empire with my Technological System

Chapter 182: Arrival at London

As the wheels of the plane touched down on the tarmac at London Heathrow Airport, Michael Reyes stirred from his seat. The familiar feeling of landing brought him back from his brief nap. The gentle jolt as the plane decelerated signaled the end of the journey and the start of a busy day ahead.

Bridget, Antoinette, Juliet, Myra, and John Carter gathered their belongings, preparing to disembark. Carter was in constant communication with his team on the ground, ensuring a smooth and secure transition through the airport.

As the plane taxied to the gate, Michael adjusted his suit jacket and glanced out the window at the gray London skyline. Despite the early hours, the airport was alive with activity. Juliet leaned over to Michael, her tablet in hand.

"We've got everything arranged," she said. "The security team is ready, and a car is waiting for us outside the terminal. We'll head straight to the hotel to drop off our bags before meeting with the Nobel Prize committee later in the day."

Michael nodded, appreciating the meticulous planning. Bridget always ensured everything ran smoothly, especially during high-profile events like this one. The Nobel Prize ceremony was a significant moment for Michael and his company, and he wanted to make sure everything went without a hitch.

The plane finally came to a stop, and the flight attendants opened the cabin doors. Carter stepped forward, leading the way as the group exited the aircraft. The security detail formed a protective perimeter around Michael and his entourage, keeping the path clear as they entered the terminal.

The terminal was bustling with travelers, but the presence of Michael's security team deterred any attempts at intrusion or unwanted attention. Cameras flashed as a few reporters caught sight of Michael, but they were kept at a safe distance by Carter and his team.

"Wow…even in London, you are still famous," Myra commented.

Michael rubbed the back of his head, a hint of a smile appearing on his lips. "I don't know what to say, Mom. It seems like news travels fast."

Juliet checked her tablet as they approached the terminal's exit. The car was ready, and the security team ensured that the area was clear.

"The car's waiting outside," she said. "Once we get in, we'll head straight to the hotel."

"Mr. Reyes…Mr. Reyes please answer one question from us," said the reporter from the BBC, waving his microphone and attempting to get closer to Michael.

John Carter stepped in, keeping the reporter at a safe distance.

"I'm sorry, no questions at this time," he said firmly. The security team maintained a tight formation around Michael, ensuring there was no room for anyone to slip through.

But the reporter was persistent. "Mr. Reyes please!"

Michael glanced at that reporter and shook his head. He knew that he'd get interviewed by the journalist after the event, so might as well answer all those questions later. He waved politely and kept walking, surrounded by his security detail. The rest of the entourage stayed close, making sure the reporters didn't get too close.

John Carter took charge, leading the group through the terminal and out to the waiting car. The hustle and bustle of the airport receded as they made their way through the secured area. Michael could feel the relief of leaving the crowded terminal behind.

The car was a sleek black Mercedes-Benz sedan, spacious and comfortable for the trip to the hotel. The security team ensured that the area around the vehicle was clear before allowing Michael and his entourage to get in.

"All clear," Carter said as he opened the door for Michael. Bridget, Antoinette, Juliet, and Myra followed suit, finding their seats in the spacious interior. Carter joined the driver in the front, maintaining a vigilant watch as the car pulled away from the curb.

Michael watched the city pass by, and as if on a tour, they passed by Big Ben, the iconic clock tower, and the London Bridge. The sights and sounds of London were distinctly different from Manila, but Michael found the city's rhythm intriguing.

"This is the first time that I visited a foreign country," Myra said.

"And this won't be your last mom," Michael said with a smile. "It's one of your dreams to go to foreign countries right? But you weren't able to do that because…"

"We have no money," Myra finished his sentence. "I know…but who could have thought that my son would be this successful."

Michael chuckled. "I think God has never abandoned us, Mom."

The car continued through the streets of London, weaving through the morning traffic. As they crossed the Thames, the city seemed to wake up, with pedestrians and commuters filling the sidewalks. Myra looked out the window, taking in the sights with wide eyes. The historic buildings and iconic landmarks were a far cry from the streets of Manila, and she couldn't help but feel a sense of awe.

"London is beautiful," she said in awe. "I never imagined I'd be here, seeing these places in person."

Bridget nodded. "It's a wonderful city, and there's so much history to explore. Once we've settled in, we should have some time to do a little sightseeing before the ceremony."

The car finally pulled up to the entrance of a luxurious and expensive hotel, The Ritz. The building stood grand and imposing, its classic architecture a stark contrast to the modern London skyline.

A doorman in a crisp uniform greeted them with a polite nod, opening the car doors as Michael and his entourage stepped out. The security detail was quick to form a protective barrier, ensuring a smooth and secure passage into the hotel.

"Welcome to The Ritz, sir," the doorman said as he ushered them inside. The lobby was a lavish display of elegance, with marble floors, towering columns, and ornate chandeliers. The air was filled with the scent of fresh flowers, and soft classical music played in the background, adding to the ambiance.

Carter led the way to the check-in desk, where the hotel staff had already prepared their rooms. They greeted Michael with professionalism, handling their luggage and guiding them to a private elevator.

In the elevator, Michael glanced at Myra, who seemed mesmerized by the opulence. "What do you think, Mom?" he asked, smiling.

"It's like a dream," Myra replied, her eyes wide with wonder. "I never imagined I'd be staying in a place like this."

Michael chuckled. "Well, get used to it. We've got a lot more travels ahead of us."

The elevator doors opened, and they stepped into a corridor lined with plush carpets and gilded mirrors. The hotel staff escorted them to their suites, which were spacious and elegantly decorated. Each room had large windows offering breathtaking views of the city, and the furnishings were a blend of classic and modern styles.

"We'll have a couple of hours to freshen up and rest before we meet with the Nobel Prize committee," Juliet said. "After that, we need to prepare for the ceremony."