Building a Conglomerate in Another World

Matthew Hesh sat at the long conference table in the White House situation room, surrounded by advisors, scientists, and military personnel. The telegraph operator read aloud the latest message from Dr. Hall in Chicago: "Patient's condition steadily improving. Second dose administered. Continuing close monitoring."

The room fell silent for a moment. Everyone processed the significance of the report. This was the first real sign that the experimental treatment might be working. Relief washed over the room, but Matthew remained cautious.

"Improvement is good," he said, breaking the silence. "But it's just one case. We need a broader set of data. Start preparing other hospitals to begin controlled trials. Coordinate with governors to establish secure transportation for supplies and medical personnel."

Henry Collins, Matthew's Chief of Staff, nodded and jotted down notes. "Understood, Mr. President. We'll contact the necessary authorities immediately."

"Good," Matthew replied. "But security is going to be crucial. There are still fears, rumors, and misinformation spreading faster than the disease itself. If the public gets wind of this too soon, panic could disrupt the rollout."

General Carter Hayes, who had been quietly observing the discussion, leaned forward. "Mr. President, we should increase the presence of the National Guard in major cities. If unrest breaks out, we'll be ready."

Matthew considered this. He didn't want to escalate the military's role unless absolutely necessary. The last thing the nation needed was to appear as though it was under martial law.

"Deploy guards near hospitals and critical infrastructure, but keep them discreet. I don't want this to look like a crackdown," Matthew instructed. "We're here to protect and support the people, not intimidate them."

"Understood, sir," Hayes replied with a nod.

Amber, who had quietly entered the room moments earlier, approached Matthew and placed a hand on his shoulder. "You've been at this all night. You need rest."

Matthew shook his head. "I'll rest when this crisis is over. Right now, every minute counts."

Matthew joined a live broadcast to update the nation on the situation. The press had been clamoring for information about the outbreak and the government's response. Rumors of secret research and experimental treatments had begun to surface in newspapers.

Standing at the podium in the East Room of the White House, Matthew faced a sea of reporters. Cameras flashed, and the murmur of conversations faded as he began to speak.

"My fellow Amerathians," he said in a steady voice, "our nation is facing one of the greatest public health crises in its history. But I want to assure you that we are making progress. Our scientists, doctors, and researchers are working tirelessly to develop effective treatments."

He paused for a moment, letting his words sink in.
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"This morning, I received promising reports from Chicago. An experimental treatment has shown initial success in stabilizing a critically ill patient. While it is too early to call this a cure, it is a step in the right direction."

The reporters erupted with questions, their voices overlapping. Matthew raised his hand to silence them.

"I know you have many questions," he continued. "We will provide updates as more information becomes available. I urge everyone to remain calm and to follow the guidance of public health officials. We are in this together, and together, we will overcome this crisis."

Despite Matthew's efforts to maintain order, panic continued to spread in some regions. In New York City, a mob of angry citizens stormed a hospital, demanding access to the experimental treatment. Rumors that only the wealthy and powerful would receive the medicine fueled their outrage.

Matthew received a telegraph from the city's mayor requesting immediate federal assistance. The situation was spiraling out of control.

"We need to act fast," Matthew said during an emergency meeting with his cabinet. "We can't allow public trust to erode further."

Amber, who had been quietly observing, spoke up. "What about a public demonstration? Show the people that this treatment is being distributed fairly. Have trusted community leaders involved so that it's not just coming from the government."

Matthew nodded thoughtfully. "That's a good idea. We'll arrange a live demonstration of the treatment process, with doctors and patients from different backgrounds. Make it clear that no one is being left behind."

Secretary of Health Dr. Frederick Hall agreed. "We can organize that within the next 48 hours. I'll work with hospital directors to select appropriate participants."

"Do it," Matthew said. "In the meantime, I'll speak directly to the governors of the most affected states. We need a unified approach to managing this crisis."

Exhausted but determined, Matthew finally returned to the presidential residence late that evening. Amber was waiting for him in the sitting room with Maverick cradled in her arms. The infant cooed softly, oblivious to the weight of the world his father carried.

"You're pushing yourself too hard again," Amber said gently. "If you break down, who's going to lead?"

Matthew sighed and sat beside her, running a hand through his hair. "I know. But there's no margin for error right now. One mistake could cost thousands of lives."

Amber shifted Maverick in her arms and gave him a pointed look. "You're already doing everything you can. The people believe in you. Now you need to believe in them—and in the team you've built."

Matthew smiled faintly. "You always know what to say."

"That's my job," she teased, leaning in to kiss him on the cheek. "Now, take a break. Even presidents need sleep."

As the evening deepened, Matthew allowed himself a rare moment of peace. He held Maverick in his arms, feeling the weight of his tiny body and the warmth of his innocent presence. This was why he fought so hard—for his family, for the future, for a world where children like Maverick could grow up in safety and prosperity.

The crisis was far from over, but for now, he drew strength from the quiet comfort of his family. Tomorrow or the next day would bring new challenges, but Matthew Hesh was ready to face them head-on.