Chapter 1041
Aspen said, “But you’re the CEO. So, what do you think? Should we just make a casual gesture and write a check for a million? Or should we step it up a notch, maybe throw in roughly eight million to try and make a name for our company?”
Andrew shook his head and said, “Eight million? That’s not enough. It lacks impact.”
Aspen was stunned. “That’s still not enough? Come on, this is just a regular charity event. Even those filthy rich legacy families only drop five million tops, just to show some goodwill. And you think even eight million isn’t enough? If we go too high, we’ll end up at the top of the donor list and stand out way too much. That kind of attention might actually backfire.”
She clearly disagreed with Andrew’s idea.
However, Andrew waved it off. “Don’t overthink it. Just spend the money. I’ll deal with the consequences. Screw it, let’s just go with 50 million.”
Aspen froze, completely in disbelief. “50 million? Are you out of your mind? If we go that high, there’s no way we won’t be at the top of the list. It’s not just the money. What if a few of those big-name families or corporations notice us? They might see Supreme Capital Group as a threat and think we’re out to steal their market share!”
Andrew replied calmly, “Then let them think that. If I’ve already joined this game, why would I fear making enemies? Go on, it’s not like that 50 million is being wasted. Best case, it sparks something bigger. Worst case, even if it doesn’t do a thing, it still goes to people who need it. That’s charity, and that’s good karma.”
Aspen was exasperated, but somehow, he had convinced her. “Fine, it’s your money. However you want to spend it, that’s your call.”
With that, she stood up, walked over, and signed for 50 million dollars.
On the other side, Quinton chuckled and said, “Christie, you’re new to the capital, and you haven’t really gotten to know the business and political big shots here yet. Go ahead and put down 20 million for us–the Wrights. Might as well show your face while you’re at it.”
Christina looked surprised. “It’s just a charity event. I saw several donors only putting in a few hundred thousand, maybe two million at most. Mr. Wright, don’t you think 20 million is a bit too much?”
However, Quinton had that calculating look in his eyes and smiled lazily. “It’s only 20 million, hardly over the top. The real reason? The state governor’s office is planning to outsource a few of their official projects. Hardly anyone knows about this yet. This donation isn’t just for helping the poor or feeding the hungry. It’s a message, aimed directly at the governor—to make a good impression.”
Christina’s eyes lit up as she immediately caught on. “Smart move. In that case, the 20 million is more like laying the groundwork. If we can win the governor’s favor, then you’ll have a real shot at landing those projects, Mr. Wright.”
Quinton laughed. “Exactly. You’re sharp—that’s the idea. Now, go knock their socks off and make an impression. You probably didn’t notice, but several of the top dogs in the room were eyeing you earlier, and from the looks of it, they’re quite taken with you.”
At first, Christina was not into any of this. Nonetheless, this was the capital—the highest rung she could ever hope to reach in her life. Now, with people starting to pay attention to her, she could not help it—her vanity swelled a little, and she felt just a bit more alive.
She glanced over at Andrew’s seat, where he sat alone, isolated and ignored, like some nobody in the corner. She silently mocked how, in a place dripping with wealth and power, where titans mingled freely, Andrew’s glow from Jayrodale looked utterly dull.
Meanwhile, she was riding the Wrights‘ coattails—and flying straight past him.
Chapter 1042