Building a Business Empire with my Technological System

Chapter 309: Are You In or Out?

President Greene leaned back in his chair, his brow furrowed. "Why would we want Michael Reyes?"

CIA Director Turner stepped forward, her expression confident. "Mr. President, Michael Reyes is not just a CEO, he's a strategic genius with unparalleled technological resources at his disposal. His company, Reyes Corporation, has developed technology as far as we know. He is like the Tony Stark in our world, and he might have military technology ideas that could give us a decisive edge."

Greene raised an eyebrow. "Tony Stark, huh? So you think he has something that could help us in this operation?"

Turner nodded. 'Apart from the missiles he developed, he must have something stowed in his drawer that is waiting for the right moment to be revealed. Reyes is known for his innovation and forward-thinking. If we bring him on board, he could provide us with technological advancements that could tip the scales in our favor."

President Greene leaned forward, considering her words. "Alright, set up a meeting with him. But approach with caution. We need his cooperation without raising any suspicions. Do you know where he is?"

"He is having his vacation along with his primary investors and secretary in Boracay. According to their itinerary, they are spending one week in the Shangri-La's Boracay Resort and Spa," Turner informed.

President Greene nodded. "Good. We'll send someone discreet to approach him. Make sure it's someone who can handle this delicately."

The next morning, Michael Reyes and his team were enjoying their time in Boracay. The sun was shining, the sea was a perfect shade of blue, and everyone was in high spirits. After breakfast, Michael and Bridget decided to take a walk along the beach while Juliet and Antoinette stayed back to plan the day's activities.

As they strolled along the shore, Michael's instinct kicked in, and he froze in place.

"What's the matter?" Bridget asked, holding his arm.

Michael couldn't answer as his eyes were darting around, finding whoever made him tense. There is got to be someone watching them, he thought.

"Stay close," Michael whispered to Bridget, his voice low and cautious.

They continued walking, trying to appear relaxed while Michael scanned the area. His eyes finally landed on a well-dressed caucasian man standing near a beachside bar, seemingly out of place among the casual vacationers. The man noticed Michael's gaze and began walking toward them.

"Mr. Reyes?" the man called out as he approached.

Michael nodded, still on guard. "Yes, and you are?"

"Can we talk privately?" asked the man.

"Why would I talk to you? I don't even know you," Michael said, his suspicion clear.

The man smiled reassuringly. "I understand your caution. My name is Bailey Phillips, and I represent a government agency. It's about a matter of national security. I assure you, Mr. Reyes, this is not something to take lightly."

Michael glanced at Bridget, who gave a slight nod, then back at Bailey. "Alright, but we'll keep this brief."

They moved to a quieter spot under the shade of some palm trees, where they could talk without being overheard. Then Bailey picked up his phone and dialed someone. Once the call was connected, he handed it to Michael.

"Please answer it, I'm sure the moment you hear the voice of the person, you'll recognize it immediately," Bailey said.

Michael hesitated for a moment before taking the phone from Bailey. He brought it to his ear and spoke cautiously, "Hello, this is Michael Reyes. Who is this?"

A familiar voice responded, firm and unmistakable. "Mr. Reyes, this is President Thomas Greene."

Michael's eyes widened in recognition. "Mr. President," he said, his tone shifting to one of respect and attention. "What can I do for you?"

"We are talking over a secure phone, but it's best that we talk about this privately. Is it possible for you to talk with Mr. Philips over there? He'll be my representative."

Michael listened carefully to the President's request. "Of course, Mr. President. I'll speak with Mr. Phillips and arrange for a more private discussion. Thank you for reaching out."

"Thank you, Michael. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated," President Greene replied before the call ended.

Michael handed the phone back to Bailey Phillips. "Alright, let's find somewhere more private to discuss this. There's a meeting room in the resort we can use."

Bailey nodded, and they made their way back to the resort. Bridget followed closely, her curiosity piqued but her concern evident.

"Michael…who is that?"

"I am afraid I cannot tell you yet," Michael continued, his voice calm but serious. "But I'll explain everything once we have more details."

Bridget nodded, trusting Michael's judgment but still feeling uneasy. They reached the meeting room, and Michael closed the door behind them. "Alright, Mr. Phillips, let's hear it."

Bailey took a seat and leaned forward. "Mr. Reyes, as the President mentioned, we are in a delicate situation. Your technological expertise could be pivotal in ensuring the security and strategic advantage of the United States."

Michael crossed his arms. "What do you mean?"

"It means that the United States is preparing for a war against China."

Michael frowned. "You are starting a war against China? I don't get why you are telling me this sensitive information. Wait…is it safe to even discuss this here in the hotel? I heard China loves wiretapping."

"There is nothing to worry about as our hackers already zoned in on any potential threats and neutralized them. This room is secure," Bailey reassured. "As I was saying, we are going to need your help."

"What kind of help? I'm just a businessman and an inventor. It's not like I have superpowers," Michael jokes.

Bailey leaned in, his tone earnest. "Mr. Reyes, we know that you have been developing advanced military technologies. We've seen some of the patents and projects your company has been involved in. If you have any technologies you are planning to release, particularly those that could be exclusive to the Philippine government, the United States would be very interested in purchasing them.

These could be crucial in the upcoming conflict."

"So that's how it is huh? You want my brain," Michael said, a wry smile on his face. "You want my brain and my inventions to tip the balance in your favor."

"That is correct, so are you interested?"

Michael hummed in thought. "Well, I don't really like involving myself in a matter such as this scale but if there is going to be a war, my country would be dragged into it, and if it's dragged into then I am affected. For that, I'm going to think over your proposal."