Chapter 13: Chapter 13: Jumping Clown
Strong Biotech Company Ltd, an emerging firm less than half a year old, was quickly making waves. Its chairman, Mr. Jerry Fowler, was not only Ethan Grave's former college classmate but also his longtime friend.... at least until four months ago when Jerry swept up critical research and top laboratory talents to establish his own company with strong investors backing him.
Holding a controlling share, Jerry's contributions of misappropriated (stolen) technology left other shareholders content with his leadership. In just months, the company had introduced the "Spirit Dog."
This unique breed featured fleshy wings and an extraordinary sense of smell. Most impressive, however, was its speed; within three months, the Spiritual Dog had climbed into the top 30 fastest species globally. This innovation rapidly thrust Strong Biotechnology into the spotlight.
In his office, Jerry sat comfortably with Lina Cobbs, the bio-designer behind the Spirit Dog. In her early thirties, Lina had experience leading international firms and had become close to Jerry since college.
Unbeknownst to Ethan, she was more than just Jerry's colleague; they were also lovers. Their bond had spurred them to misuse Ethan's research funds and manipulate contracts before they developed the Spiritual Dog and left his company together.
"The fool wants to participate in the expo; whatchu you think about that Jerry?" Lina laughed, seated comfortably in Jerry's embrace.
Though Lina was valuable to him now, Jerry saw her as merely useful and planned to discard her once she no longer served his interests. Driven by ambition, Jerry's motto was that success required no sentimentality. With Strong Biotechnology gaining traction, he felt his victory was only beginning, he was already envisioning the company's expansion and his own rise to power.
"He's just bluffing," Jerry scoffed. "Ethan doesn't have the resources to develop anything like that. He's just all talk, a prideful fool who can't see his own limits."
Confident in his own success, Jerry dismissed Ethan's ambitions, never considering that Ethan was no longer the man he remembered.
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Meanwhile, at Pokémon Biotechnology Inc., Ethan lowered his phone, sharing a confident smile with Annie who was beside him. "There are still plenty of doubters, but in a few days, Timmy and the other Pichu's performance at the expo will set things straight."
"I can't wait!" Annie replied, her excitement matching his.
Ethan had secured a booth at the upcoming "New Century Pet" exhibition which was held at Tarvok City, certain that Timmy's showcase would capture everyone's attention.
"Annie, tell me honestly… was I a bit naive before?" he asked unexpectedly.
Annie glanced at him, taken aback by his introspection. "Well, Mr. Grave, if I'm being honest… yes. You trusted Mr. Fowler too much, and he took advantage of that."
Ethan nodded, reflecting. "Exactly. He used my trust to get the better of me. But it's not too late to make things right. I'm ready to be the boss this company deserves... That I swear on my grandfather's grave"
"I believe you can achieve it, Mr. Grave. I know you'll lead Pokémon Biotech to new heights and even beyond," Annie said, her tone encouraging.
Ethan's transformation was clear to everyone around him. He'd become a responsible, dedicated leader who was more engaged with his team and was also fostering a supportive work culture.
Just then, Ethan's phone rang, interrupting the moment.
"XX Bank?" he noted, picking up.
"Mr. Grave? This is XX Bank. We're pleased to inform you that your loan application for 8 million dollars has been approved."
A broad smile crossed Ethan's face. After thanking the representative, he turned to Annie. "The bank loan I applied for, It's officially been approved. With this funding, we'll breed a hundred Pichu, or maybe we could even develop a brand-new Pokémon species, and there's no need to worry about it, I already have a plan inside my head of how I'll accomplish it!"
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