Building a Conglomerate in Another World

Chapter 47: Back Home and the Impending Task

Matthew stepped off the ship at Hudson Dock, Amsterdam, feeling the crisp air hit his face. After months away, the busy sounds of the dock—workers shouting, crates being moved—felt oddly comforting. His eyes quickly found two familiar faces waiting near a carriage.

Charles Fitzwilliam, ever composed in his neat suit, stood tall, while beside him, Amber Fitzwilliam wore a warm smile that instantly caught Matthew’s attention. He returned her smile, his tiredness melting away for a moment.

"Welcome back, Hesh," Charles greeted, stepping forward and shaking his hand. "That must have been quite a journey."

"It was long but worth it," Matthew replied, shaking his hand firmly. "The rubber shipment is being unloaded as we speak. We’ve brought back enough to get started."

Amber stepped closer, her smile softening. "You look exhausted, Matthew. Did you even take a break on the way back?"

Matthew chuckled lightly, glancing at her. "Not much time for that. There was too much to plan. But seeing you here makes it all worth it."

Amber blushed slightly and looked away, her voice quieter. "We’re glad you’re back."

Charles cleared his throat. "Yes, welcome back, Hesh. "It’s been almost six months since you were away and I have some important news that I bring."

"Hoh? What could it be?"

"There is a world’s fair happening this year that will be held in the Francois Republic. In order to attract future customers for your automobile, that is the best platform to showcase it."

"World’s fair, huh?" Matthew repeated, his expression shifting into one of deep thought. "That’s quite the opportunity. If we play this right, it could put our automobile on the map internationally."

"Exactly," Charles said with a nod. "The Francois Republic is hosting some of the most influential figures in industry, science, and innovation. If you want to make a statement, this is where you do it."

Matthew rubbed his chin, considering the idea. "How long do we have before it starts?"

"Uhm... no, of course not!" Amber blurted, her cheeks flushing a deep pink as she waved her hands in denial. "Why would you even think that, Father?"

Charles raised an eyebrow, clearly unconvinced. "Amber, you’re a terrible liar. Your reaction just now tells me everything I need to know."

Amber crossed her arms, turning her face away from him in an attempt to regain her composure. "I’m not lying! I was just... surprised, that’s all. And maybe... annoyed that he didn’t even stay to catch up. That’s it."

"Annoyed, huh?" Charles said, his tone laced with amusement. "You’ve never been this bothered when others brushed you off. So why is Matthew different?"

Amber shot him a quick glare. "He’s not! I mean, he’s a friend, and he’s been gone for so long. I thought he’d at least stick around to talk about his trip."

"This is going to be a problem...Amber, whatever feeling that you have for Mr. Hesh, you better throw it away. You will marry a man I chose for you, and it’s not going to be Mr. Hesh."

Amber’s lips parted as if she were about to respond, but she quickly pressed them together, holding back the words that threatened to spill out. Her hands clenched into fists at her sides, and her face turned crimson—not just from embarrassment but from the frustration simmering inside her.

They were in public, surrounded by bustling dockworkers, passengers, and merchants. This was not the place for an outburst, and Amber knew it. But that didn’t mean she had to accept her father’s statement quietly.

Her jaw tightened as she glared at Charles. "You’ve already decided that, have you?"

Charles’s expression remained calm, though there was a hint of warning in his gaze. "I’m your father, Amber. It’s my duty to secure your future."

Amber let out a sharp breath, crossing her arms tightly over her chest.

"And what if I don’t want the future you’ve chosen for me? What if—" She stopped herself abruptly, realizing her voice had risen slightly. A few nearby dockworkers glanced in their direction, and she quickly composed herself.

Charles’s eyes narrowed, his tone firm. "Amber, this is not a discussion. It’s an expectation. I know what’s best for you, even if you don’t see it now."

"I hate you father..." Amber said.