[Chapter 618: If the Soviets Are Done, Do We Still Owe?]
"Sir, we can't reach Mr. Wanta. He seems to have disappeared. I checked the customs records, and he hasn't left the country at all."
After hearing this shocking news, Soros became a bit unsettled. This elusive guy just vanished as if it were nothing. Damn it, I've got a ton of things to handle here; what does this mean for me?
"Find out where he is. If I'm correct, he should be in Switzerland. Ha, most of his money is probably stashed there."
...
The sudden disappearance threw the CIA into a panic. Damn it, this isn't just his money; this is money for all of us.
There was another, even worse concern; if the Soviets were also looking to collect, this could get messy.
What this bunch was worrying about wasn't really the Soviets. If you still can't see that the Soviets are on the brink of collapse, then it's time to pack it in.
So the question arises: if the Soviets are finished, what happens to the money as the world's biggest brokers?
To put it bluntly, even if he tries to dodge the debt, there's not much anyone can do about it. If the Soviets start fighting among themselves and take out a few big players, good heavens, how much is that worth?
The CIA chief had a grim expression; he was already fed up with the situation. Just yesterday, he had vehemently assured his higher-ups that the Wanta project was sound. At this point, the money would flow to the U.S. through special channels. Of course, we would cut a bit off the top, and you could pretend you didn't see it.
Shortly after those words, their guy, Leo Wanta, went AWOL. Of course, this kind of disappearance wouldn't last very long. Even if they found him now, there'd be no way to control him.
Wanta sensed the danger; he needed to protect himself. Unless you could guarantee his safety, forget about the money.
"You're all in charge here, so let me ask bluntly: how much money are we dealing with?"
No one could respond; everyone closely connected to him had basically fled. It was clear now that this had been a long-planned scheme.
"Leo Wanta is off-limits. Gather up those surrounding him and bring them in. Also, assign someone to keep an eye on his family. They cannot leave your sight."
The CIA chief finished his monologue; this wasn't something that could be reported back yet. At the end of the day, this is their scheme to take down the Soviets; it wouldn't be right to investigate using normal methods.
...
"Master, that guy is in Switzerland, and he isn't trying to hide. I think he's waiting for the CIA to make an offer."
"Ha, Tanner, what qualifications does the CIA have to make demands? I doubt even the conditions laid out by George's old man would be taken seriously by this guy," said William White, with a teasing smile.
"Master, wouldn't a pardon document work?"
"No, he must die. As long as he's alive, no one will dare touch that money. It's a big trap; whoever gets involved will die."
"Tsk, this guy, I really don't get what he's doing with all that money?"
"He can't walk away. As a good friend of the Soviets, if he refuses to help them, he'd probably have been dried up by now. The money? You've got to make it, whether you want to or not."
"Master, the Soviets are about to collapse. What about the assets that haven't been settled?"
"I don't know. To me, it's a miracle that he's still alive now. Everyone who's completed a transaction wants him dead. Forget it, Tanner, let's continue to observe and see who makes a move. Don't reach out; reaching out means death. Hahaha, this is getting interesting."
William White left with a smile; this world was certainly becoming more entertaining.
...
Ever since he got a new assistant, William White developed a habit of taking midday naps. Well, it's that kind of rest that makes one feel more exhausted.
However, he was in a good mood today. Those troublemakers who often gave him a hard time had clearly landed themselves in hot water this time. These jerks should take a breather now. At this time, provoking a media mogul would likely cause them to turn against each other internally.
"Sir, Mr. Dominic Fain has arrived."
"Great, let him in. Thank you for your help earlier."
The young assistant brought him a coffee and sashayed out of the room. However, the way she moved seemed a little peculiar.
"Ahem, Dominic, how's the situation in Hong Kong?"
"Sir, the user numbers are steadily increasing. Within a year, we should see significant profits."
"Good, that's very encouraging. Are there any negative reactions?"
"Yes, the pager business is starting to stagnate. There are several voices calling for a re-auction of the telecom operating rights. I fear we may not be able to avoid that."
"Hmm, I've considered that. So, in this brief window of opportunity, you must develop more users. Next year, at the end of the year, I want you back in the U.S."
"Okay, sir. It's time to gain some weight in Hong Kong, so I should return to the U.S."
"Dominic, you have a knack for marketing. When you come back, focus on boosting Tesla's sales. They can't come up with anything new, and I'm quite disappointed. The automotive market has great potential, and we plan to open three more factories next year. The pressure from sales will be immense. How's your confidence?"
"I'm confident, but sir, our brand seems a little weak."
"Hmm, I noted that. I'm keeping an eye on it. If all goes well, we should see a few more sub-brands next year."
Dominic Fain left feeling very happy. His hard work in Hong Kong had been recognized by his boss. Up next, he would have a broader stage. Now, he could go back and strike while the iron is hot. Even if mobile communication licenses are opened up, it shouldn't significantly impact Hong Kong Telecom.
...
"Alright, no hugging for now. You all go ahead; I'll be in Lanai for Christmas, at least for a month."
"Honey, I'm scared."
"Silly girl, the due date is approaching; I'll be there. I still have a few things to wrap up quickly."
For some reason, Michelle Reis had been very clingy lately. If he weren't so busy, he wouldn't have had much interest in staying in Los Angeles.
"Take care of yourself, Suzuki."
"Got it, you too." With that, she shot him an annoyed look.
William White felt a bit annoyed himself; wasn't it you who kept pushing me into this? If I didn't respond, you'd definitely suspect I was fooling around outside. But if I actually did, cough, cough, then you'd definitely get jealous. Ugh, it's tough being me.
Alright, this brat is being dramatic again. She just doesn't know what to do; she knows too well what her man is like. Instead of letting him wander, it's better to tie him down as much as possible.
"Tanner, keep an eye on the security around."
"Don't worry, master, I've been cleaning up lately. We've got satellites now; those with ulterior motives won't have the chance to get close."
"Hmm, let's raise the alert level. I have a feeling something's about to happen."
"Understood, master. I'm off."
For this trip, William White decided against flying. For such a large family, his super yacht was the safer bet.
Even though there are pirates at sea, this route is relatively safe, and there's no need to dock for supplies. Most importantly, he had two satellites at his disposal.
Even if someone wanted to plot against him, they would end up ensnaring themselves. After the last lesson from those pirates, anyone with a scheme would think twice. If they exposed themselves, well, good luck to them.
*****
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