Building a Conglomerate in Another World

Chapter 73: I Want In!

By the next morning, Charles Fitzwilliam arrived at the Hesh Factory, eager to see the marvel that Amber had described so vividly. His carriage pulled up at the factory gates, where workers were already busy with their morning routines. The air was crisp, and a thin layer of frost clung to the ground. Charles stepped out, his sharp eyes scanning the sprawling complex for any signs of the invention that had captivated his thoughts all night.

Matthew, alerted by one of the factory guards, emerged from the workshop, wiping his hands on a rag. He greeted Charles with a firm handshake.

"Charles," Matthew said warmly, "you’re up early. To what do I owe the pleasure?"

Charles wasted no time. "Amber has told me about your flying machine. I’m here to see it for myself. Is it ready for another demonstration?"

Matthew smiled but raised a hand. "It’s not quite that simple, Charles. The Flyer needs to be refueled, and we’ll need to run some checks before it’s safe for another flight. That will take some time."

Charles waved off the concern. "I’ll wait. I’m not leaving here without seeing this thing in action."

Matthew nodded, appreciating the man’s determination. "Fair enough. Let’s head to the airfield while the team prepares everything."

At the airfield, the Flyer stood proudly in the center, its sleek design a testament to Matthew’s ingenuity. Charles circled the aircraft, inspecting every detail—the polished radial engine, the sturdy yet lightweight wings, and the carefully crafted propeller.

"This is extraordinary," Charles muttered, almost to himself. "You’ve created something that looks both elegant and powerful."

Matthew joined him, gesturing toward the engine. "It’s not just about appearances, Charles. Every element of this machine has been designed with purpose. The radial engine provides reliable thrust, the wings generate lift with minimal drag, and the lightweight frame ensures it’s agile in the air."

As the ground crew began refueling the Flyer, Matthew explained the process. "We use a specially refined fuel mixture to maximize efficiency. It’s not as dense as what we use in automobiles, but it burns cleaner and delivers consistent power."

Charles watched as the crew worked methodically, his curiosity growing. "How long before it’s ready?"

Matthew smiled, appreciating the offer. "Thank you, Charles. But truthfully, I don’t need a significant investment. Hesh Motors is generating more than enough revenue to fund this project. That said, I’d like to offer you something else."

Charles raised an eyebrow. "I’m listening."

"For the sake of partnership and the value your experience and connections bring, I’m willing to offer you a ten percent stake in the aviation division of Hesh Industries," Matthew said. "It’s not about the money—it’s about having someone I trust involved in this venture."

Charles extended his hand without hesitation. "You’ve got a deal, Matthew. Ten percent it is. And I’ll do everything in my power to help you succeed."

Matthew shook his hand firmly. "Then let’s get to work. The sky isn’t just the limit—it’s the next frontier."

As they walked back toward the workshop, discussing plans for scaling production and reaching international markets, Amber followed, a satisfied smile on her face. She knew that between Matthew’s genius and her father’s business acumen, the future of aviation was in very capable hands.

Back in Matthew’s office at the Hesh Factory, a formal agreement was being drawn up. The desk was cleared of clutter, replaced by a fresh sheet of parchment and pen.

Charles Fitzwilliam sat across from Matthew, and Matthew began. "I’ve outlined the terms of our partnership here. Ten percent of the aviation division’s equity in exchange for your involvement and connections."

Charles leaned forward, scanning the document. "It’s a fair agreement, Matthew. You’ve already achieved so much on your own, but with a venture like this, partnerships are essential. This will ensure both the stability and growth of the division."

Matthew nodded. "Exactly. I want this to remain a collaborative effort, one that balances innovation with strategic expansion. Your name carries weight, Charles. Having you as a partner will open doors that might otherwise take years to access."

Matthew handed the pen to Charles. "Shall we make it official?"

Without hesitation, Charles took the pen, and signed the document.