Building a Business Empire with my Technological System

Chapter 294: Bridget's Answer

Michael looked at his current system point balance.

[Current Balance: 325,000 System Points]

The warship needed 350,000 system points. So he was short of 25,000 system points. But at least, it's only a short amount of system points now. So he browsed his system for another mission and looked for something that would reward him the exact amount and with the least expendable efforts.

And then he found one.

[New Mission: Create an Heir]

Mission Description: In order for your business empire to last longer, you need to create an heir. This requires having a girlfriend, whom you will eventually turn into your wife.

Reward: 25,000 System Points]

Michael stared at the screen. He couldn't believe that this is one of the missions that the system can give to the host. Well, it's not like he is complaining or anything. It's just that this is a surprise to him.

Now if he completed the mission, then he would get the 25,000 system points, and when he earned those 25,000 system points, he could purchase the warship in the system and have that warship built in the shipyard he acquired in Subic.

Michael stared at the screen. He couldn't believe that this was one of the missions that the system could give to the host. Well, it's not like he was complaining or anything. It's just that this was a surprise to him.

Now if he completed the mission, then he would get the 25,000 system points, and when he earned those 25,000 system points, he could purchase the warship in the system and have that warship built in the shipyard he acquired in Subic.

The name of the girl that came to mind was Bridget. He had expressed his intention of going out with her, and even without the mission, he'd still pursue and propose to her eventually. This mission just gave him the perfect reason to accelerate his plans.

Michael took a deep breath and decided it was time to take the next step. He walked back to the main area where Bridget was still mingling with the guests. She was chatting with a local official

As he approached, she noticed him and smiled. "Oh... Mr. Reyes, I'm talking to the Mayor of Quezon City, Mr. Bautista."

Michael extended his hand to the mayor. "Good evening, Mr. Bautista. It's a pleasure to meet you."

The mayor shook his hand firmly. "The pleasure is mine, Mr. Reyes. And it is an honor to meet you."

"Well the honor is mine, Mayor," Michael continued, "I'm very excited about the potential for our project to benefit Quezon City and its residents."

The mayor smiled warmly. "I have no doubt it will. Your vision for this redevelopment is truly inspiring. I look forward to seeing it come to fruition."

"Thank you, Mayor. I appreciate your support," Michael replied.

After a few more pleasantries, Michael turned his attention to Bridget. "Bridget, could I have a word with you in private?"

Bridget nodded, curiosity evident in her eyes. "Of course, Michael. Mayor, if you'll excuse us?"

The mayor nodded with a smile. "Certainly. Enjoy the rest of your day."

Michael led Bridget to a quieter corner of the event space. He took a deep breath, feeling the weight of the moment. "Bridget, there's something important I need to talk to you about."

Bridget looked at him curiously. "What is it, Michael?"

Michael gathered his thoughts. "I know this might sound sudden, but I've developed strong feelings for you. You've been an incredible partner and friend, and I think we could be something more. I want to take our relationship to the next level."

Bridget's eyes widened slightly, but she didn't interrupt.

Michael continued. "Do you remember the time where I took you out to Manila? Where I expressed my feelings for you?"

Upon hearing that, Bridget chuckled. "I thought you wouldn't remember that day," she said with a smile. "Of course, I remember, Michael. It was a memorable day for both of us."

Michael smiled, feeling a bit more at ease. "Well, those feelings have only grown stronger since then. I want us to be more than just business partners and friends. I want to build a life with you, Bridget."

Bridget looked at him, her eyes searching his face for sincerity. "Michael, this is a big step. Are you sure this is what you want?"

Michael nodded firmly. "Yes, Bridget. I'm sure. You are the person I want to spend my life with."

Bridget took a deep breath, her eyes softening as she prepared to respond. Just as she opened her mouth to speak, they were interrupted by a familiar voice.

"Michael, Bridget," Henry Sy, Jr. called out as he approached them with a warm smile. "I hope I'm not interrupting anything important?"

Michael and Bridget both turned to face Henry, who looked genuinely pleased to see them together. "No, Mr. Sy, not at all," Michael said, though he felt a pang of frustration at the timing.

Henry clapped his hands together. "Excellent! I wanted to extend a personal invitation to both of you. How about joining me for a private dinner at my residence tonight? I think it would be a wonderful opportunity for us to discuss our future plans in a more relaxed setting."

Bridget glanced at Michael, and he could see the curiosity and excitement in her eyes. "That sounds lovely, Mr. Sy. We'd be honored," she replied.

Michael nodded in agreement. "Yes, thank you for the invitation, Mr. Sy. We'd be happy to join you."

"Fantastic," Henry said, his smile broadening. "This is my address."

As Henry walked away, Bridget turned back to Michael, a thoughtful look on her face. "Well, I guess our conversation will have to wait a bit longer."

Yes, but we'll have plenty of time later. Let's make the most of this evening."

***

Later that evening, Michael was in his RAM TRX, driving towards Henry Sy Jr.'s residence. The drive was calm, and the city lights provided a serene backdrop. Bridget sat beside him, looking out of the window with a thoughtful expression.

"Are you nervous?" Michael asked, glancing at her.

Bridget turned to him and smiled. "A little, but mostly excited. It's not every day you get invited to dinner by one of the most influential businessmen in the country."

Michael nodded. "True. It's a significant opportunity for us, both personally and professionally."

They soon arrived at Henry's grand residence, a sprawling estate that exuded elegance and sophistication. As they parked and approached the entrance, a butler greeted them and led them inside.

Henry met them in the foyer, his demeanor warm and welcoming. "Mr. Reyes, Ms. von Reimann, welcome! I'm glad you could make it. Please, come in."

They followed Henry to a beautifully set dining room where a cozy, intimate dinner awaited. And it seemed that they were not alone; there were also a few other guests present, mostly some of the wealthiest businessmen in the country. The table was adorned with fine china, crystal glasses, and a centerpiece of fresh flowers. The ambiance was perfect for a relaxed and engaging evening.

Henry introduced Michael and Bridget to the other guests, each one a prominent figure in various industries. Michael shook hands and exchanged pleasantries, recognizing the potential for future collaborations and partnerships.

As they settled into their seats, Henry raised a glass. "To new beginnings and successful partnerships."

Michael and Bridget clinked their glasses with his, echoing his toast. "To new beginnings."

The dinner progressed smoothly, with delicious courses served one after another. The conversation flowed easily, covering a range of topics from business strategies to personal anecdotes. Henry shared stories from his early days in the industry, offering valuable insights and advice.

At one point, Henry leaned back, a thoughtful expression on his face. "Michael, Bridget, I've seen many partnerships, but there's something unique about the way you two work together. It's clear that you share a deep understanding and respect for each other."

Michael glanced at Bridget, who smiled warmly. "Thank you, Mr. Sy. Bridget has been an incredible partner and support. I couldn't imagine doing this without her."

Henry nodded approvingly. "That's wonderful to hear. It's important to have someone by your side who you can trust and rely on, especially in business."

"I believe she will be the one who helps me build a lasting legacy," Michael continued, looking at Bridget with a sincere smile. "Together, we can achieve so much more."

Bridget blushed slightly but smiled back, appreciating his words. Henry observed their interaction with a knowing look.

Moments later, Michael rose to his feet and said. "Please, if you will excuse me and Ms. von Reimann here, I have something to say to her."

Henry nodded understandingly, and the other guests exchanged knowing smiles. Michael gently took Bridget's hand, leading her out of the dining room to a secluded part of Henry's residence. They found a quiet terrace overlooking a beautifully lit garden. The ambiance was serene, with the soft sound of water flowing from a nearby fountain.

Michael turned to Bridget, his expression earnest. "Bridget, I need to know your answer. Do you feel the same way about me?"

Bridget took a deep breath. She looked at Michael, holding his gaze for a long moment before speaking. "Michael, you mean a lot to me. You've been an incredible partner and friend, and I'm grateful for everything we've shared."

Michael's heart raced as he waited for her to continue, hoping for the answer he wanted.

Bridget paused, seemingly gathering her thoughts. The suspense was almost unbearable for Michael. Finally, she spoke again.

"But... my answer is no."