Chapter 15
Earlier, Barry had been showing off, boasting about his company's $750,000 investment and his 3,200-square-foot office. His pride was evident. However, compared to Robert's holdings, his office was insignificant.
Barry's eyes were wide and bloodshot; he was jealous and angry, unable to comprehend Robert's wealth. Had he known Robert was the heir to the Zabinski Group, he would have undoubtedly prostrated himself.
The elegantly dressed women in the front row curtsied and left. Those in the second row stepped forward, still carrying their trays. The attendees at the job fair now understood the trays' significance: each held assets worth tens of millions of dollars! The attendees wondered about Robert's family background.
The small businesses that had previously joined Kendrick in boycotting Robert were panicked and uncertain, unsure how to proceed. The prospect of facing such a powerful individual's wrath terrified them. They knew a single public statement from him could ruin their businesses.
Overwhelmed by the spectacle, Robert felt the display becoming unbearable. The sheer scale of wealth on display was unlike anything he'd witnessed. He waved to Carlos, saying, "Carlos, forget it. Don't make them announce it."
"Yes, sir," Carlos replied, lowering his head. "I'll compile a detailed list of all assets and send it to you."
Robert nodded, feeling the curious stares of the crowd. He understood why many found large events uncomfortable; the intense scrutiny was overwhelming.
He smiled wryly at Samuel and Carlos. "Carlos, let's end this display. I have a graduation party tonight."
Carlos nodded, used his walkie-talkie to give instructions, and left the school grounds. Before departing, he said, "Mr. Zabinski, you now have seventeen companies under your name. You should find someone to help manage them."
Carlos, aware of his position, knew it wasn't his place to decide whether Samuel and the others would intern. He was merely suggesting it.
Robert understood. He patted Samuel's shoulder. "Hey, Samuel, did you hear about the companies? You can choose whichever one you want, and any position you think you can handle."
Hundreds of envious eyes fell upon Samuel and his friends. Previously ridiculed for their connection to Robert—their resumes discarded—they were now offered positions in over a dozen companies, with the option to hold any position they deemed themselves capable of, even general manager.
A general manager in such a large company was far better than owning a small business. Their fortunes had changed dramatically overnight.
Those previously aligned with Barry and Kendrick quickly shifted their allegiances, now fawning over Samuel and his friends.