Building a Business Empire with my Technological System

Chapter 286: Spend Time with me First

"Michael…what's with the idea all of a sudden?" Myra asked, confused by the sudden turn of events. She just wanted to show his son that the business he gave to her is thriving and improving, but she didn't expect Michael to expand her business into something like a mall.

Michael on the other hand couldn't tell the reason why he wanted to give his mother a mall. Although he'd wanted his mother to thrive in her business in her ways, this is something that he has to step in and interfere because the system offered him rewards for doing so.

100,000 System Points is a huge point for Michael, and if he could get that, he is getting closer to acquiring that advanced warship from the system and have it built in the shipyard he just opened.

"Just trust me on this, Ma," Michael said, looking at her with determination. "You've done an amazing job with the convenience store, and I know you can handle something even bigger. Plus, I'll be here to support you every step of the way."

Myra hesitated, "But Michael, building and managing a mall is a huge responsibility. It's a lot different from running a supermarket."

"I know it's a big step, but think of the impact it could have," Michael replied, his enthusiasm unwavering. "You could create jobs, provide more services to the community, and continue to grow as a business leader. You've already shown you have the skills and the drive."

Myra looked at Michael, seeing the confidence in his eyes. She knew he believed in her, and that belief was contagious.

"Alright, Michael. I trust you. Let's do this."

Michael smiled, feeling a surge of excitement. "Great! We'll start planning right away. I'll handle the finances and the initial setup. I will contact you once everything is prepared."

Myra smiled and laughed softly. "Now, let's stop talking about business, Michael. We should talk about how you are doing personally. How was your romance with Bridget going on?"

"Well…Bridget…she is a lovely lady, ma. But recently we are still focusing on ourselves. My business is big, dealing with different industries and sectors. As the days passed by, I felt that Bridget and I were drifting apart," Michael admitted sadly.

Myra looked at him with concern. "Drifting apart? What do you mean, Michael?"

Michael sighed. "We barely have time for each other anymore. I'm always busy with work, and she's focused on her business too. It's like we're living separate lives, even though we're supposed to be together. And when we are meeting, it's just your professional meeting. Nothing more."

Myra's concern deepened. "That doesn't sound healthy, Michael. Relationships need more than just shared goals and work. They need personal connection and time together."

Michael nodded, his heart heavy. "I know, Mom. It's just hard to find the time. We're both so driven by our careers."

"Have you talked to Bridget about how you feel?" Myra asked gently.

Michael shook his head. "We didn't have the opportunity. What should I do mom…I need your guidance on this…"

He reached out to hold his mother's hand, seeking comfort and wisdom. Myra gave his hand a reassuring squeeze.

"Michael, relationships take work, just like anything else. You need to make the time for each other. Even if it's just small moments here and there, they can make a big difference. You need to talk to Bridget and be honest about how you feel," Myra advised.

Michael nodded, taking in her words. "You're right, Mom. Perhaps I should take a break sometimes in my work and spent that time with Bridget. I'll make an effort to prioritize our relationship. I'll talk to Bridget and see if we can find a way to spend more quality time together."

Myra smiled, relieved to see her son taking her advice to heart. "That's the spirit, Michael. Communication is key. You both need to be on the same page and make a commitment to each other, even amidst your busy schedules."

Michael felt a sense of determination. "Thanks, Mom. I'll call her tonight and set up a time to talk."

They continued their conversation, shifting to lighter topics, reminiscing about old times and sharing laughs. The evening passed by pleasantly, filled with warmth and love.

"Okay, it's time to go to bed," Myra yawned. "It was a long and eventful day."

Michael nodded, feeling the fatigue catching up with him. "You're right, Mom. Let's get some rest."

They both stood up from the cozy living room, and Michael gave his mother a warm hug. "Good night, Mom. Thanks for everything."

"Good night, Michael. Sleep well," Myra replied with a smile.

Michael headed to his room. He was grateful for the time spent with his mother and the plans they had made for the future. At the same time, his thoughts kept drifting back to Bridget and their relationship.

As he lay in bed, he picked up his phone and dialed Bridget's number. After a few rings, she answered.

"Hey, Michael," Bridget's voice came through, sounding tired but pleased to hear from him.

"Hi, Bridget. I hope I'm not calling too late," Michael said softly.

"No, it's fine. I'm glad you called. What's up?" she replied.

Michael took a deep breath. "I wanted to talk to you about us. I've been feeling like we're drifting apart, and I don't want that to happen. I miss spending time with you, and I want us to make more of an effort to be together."

Bridget was silent for a moment before responding. "I've been feeling the same way, Michael. We're both so busy, and it's been hard to find time for each other. What's more is that we already talked about this, and its happening again."

"I know right…if this is how business empires are being built, then it's no wonder relationships suffer," Michael admitted. . "But I don't want to lose you, Bridget. You're too important to me."

Bridget sighed softly. "You're important to me too, Michael. So how was the trip to Tagaytay and how did you and your mother spend the day?" she asked, trying to steer the conversation towards a lighter topic.

"It was great," Michael said, his voice softening. "I showed her the convenience store I bought for her, and she had turned it into a small supermarket. She's done an amazing job, and she's so proud of it."

"That's wonderful to hear," Bridget replied, sounding genuinely happy. "Your mother must be thrilled with what she's accomplished."

"She is," Michael agreed. "But I also had an idea to expand her business even further. I want to help her build a mall."

Bridget chuckled. "Before you do that, please spend time with me first."