Building a Conglomerate in Another World

June 25, 1893.

The presidential office in Washington buzzed with activity as aides and secretaries rushed to meet deadlines. Reports from across the nation filled Matthew Hesh's desk, but his focus today was on a different matter. He leaned back in his chair, deep in thought, the flickering firelight from the nearby hearth casting shadows on the walls. He had been briefed by his intelligence team regarding William Porter, the journalist who had relentlessly investigated his early years.

Matthew understood that letting Porter continue unchecked would eventually lead to damaging speculation. The man was too inquisitive for his own good, and Matthew needed to take control of the situation.

Amber entered the room, carrying a folder. "So, Porter," she began, setting it on his desk. "Your people have been monitoring him closely. He's thorough, I'll give him that."

Matthew nodded. "He's chasing ghosts. If I let this continue, he might stir up rumors that could distract the nation. I need to handle him personally."

Amber tilted her head, curious. "What's the plan?"

"I'll invite him here. He wants answers? I'll give him enough to get him off my back—enough truth to make him drop the rest of his investigation," Matthew replied.

Amber smiled softly. "Careful, Matthew. He's a smart man. You'll need to walk a fine line."

Matthew chuckled. "I've faced tougher negotiations. Besides, sometimes people need a glimpse behind the curtain to realize there's no magic trick. Just hard work."

Later that afternoon, William Porter received a formal letter delivered by a White House aide. The embossed seal caught his eye immediately. He opened it with a mixture of excitement and caution.

[Mr. Porter,

You are cordially invited to the White House for a private discussion with President Matthew Hesh. The President wishes to address the questions you have raised in your recent inquiries.

Your dedication to uncovering the truth has not gone unnoticed. This meeting will provide the clarity you seek.

Sincerely,

Henry Collins, Chief of Staff] Explore more at My Virtual Library Empire

Porter read the letter twice, his mind racing. This was unprecedented. Presidents didn't summon reporters for casual chats. Yet, here it was—an opportunity too significant to ignore.

Two days later, Porter stood outside the gates of the White House, his heart pounding as he handed over his identification. He had been in high-stakes interviews before, but this was different. He wasn't just meeting a leader—he was confronting the man who had become the centerpiece of his investigation.

After a security check, Porter was escorted through the grand halls of the White House. Paintings of past presidents adorned the walls, and the air carried a sense of both history and authority. Finally, he was led to a private office where Matthew Hesh waited, standing by a large window overlooking the gardens.

"Mr. Porter," Matthew greeted, extending his hand. "Thank you for coming."

Porter shook his hand, surprised by the President's relaxed demeanor. "Thank you for the invitation, Mr. President. I wasn't expecting it."

Matthew gestured for Porter to sit. "You've been persistent. I respect that. I thought it was time we had a candid conversation."

Porter sat, pulling out his notebook. "I'll admit, your story is... unconventional. You rose to power and influence in ways that don't quite match the usual path. I've spoken to people who knew you in your early days. They all describe you as someone ahead of your time."

Matthew chuckled softly. "Is that a crime, Mr. Porter?"

"Of course not," Porter replied quickly. "But it raises questions. Where did your knowledge come from? You introduced ideas and technologies that seemed years ahead of their time."

Matthew leaned forward, clasping his hands together. "Let me be clear. I didn't rise to where I am by magic or conspiracy. I grew up in challenging circumstances, just like many others. My early opportunities with the railways gave me the chance to apply what I had learned—through books, observation, and relentless work."

"And the air brake system? The industrial reforms? The innovations in oil extraction?" Porter pressed. "Those aren't things a young man just stumbles upon."

Matthew smiled thoughtfully. "You're right. I had an insatiable hunger for knowledge. I sought out experts, engineers, and scientists wherever I could. I read every technical manual, every research paper I could get my hands on. I didn't sleep much in those days."

Porter scribbled notes, nodding slowly. "So you're saying it all came down to self-education and opportunity?"

"Exactly," Matthew replied. "In Amerathia, anyone with determination and vision can shape their destiny. That's what I've done. I won't pretend it was easy, but I won't apologize for my success, either."

Porter hesitated, sensing there was more to the story but unsure how to push further without crossing a line. "Some still wonder if you had... outside help. Financial backers, foreign interests—"

Matthew's expression hardened slightly. "There were no secret benefactors, Mr. Porter. Every deal, every investment, every innovation was the result of hard work and negotiation. I've always acted in the best interest of Amerathia."

The room grew quiet for a moment. Porter met Matthew's gaze and saw no hint of deception—just unwavering confidence.

"You've built an empire," Porter finally said. "And now, you're leading the nation. What's next for you?"

Matthew leaned back, exhaling slowly. "I plan to keep pushing Amerathia forward. We're at a turning point in history. Our industries, our infrastructure, our place in the world—all of it is evolving. I want to ensure that every citizen benefits from that progress."

Porter closed his notebook. "You've given me a lot to think about, Mr. President. I appreciate your honesty."

Matthew stood, extending his hand again. "I trust this conversation has answered your questions. I respect journalism, but I hope you'll use your platform to tell the full story—not just the rumors."

Porter shook his hand firmly. "You have my word."

As Porter left the White House, he felt a mixture of awe and frustration. He hadn't uncovered the secret he had hoped for, but he had gained something else—an understanding of the man behind the legend. Perhaps, after all, there was no great mystery. Just a relentless drive to shape the future.

Meanwhile, Matthew watched from the window as Porter departed. He knew the journalist would still have doubts, but he had done enough to keep the truth buried. For now, his secrets remained safe.

Amber entered the room quietly. "How did it go?"

"He'll back off for now," Matthew said. "But we'll keep watching him. We can't afford to let anyone dig too deep."

Amber nodded, her expression serious. "We've got bigger things to focus on. The future won't wait for anyone."

Matthew smiled faintly. "Exactly. Let's get back to work."