[Chapter 622: The Shadow Behind]
"What? Linked to the California consortium? Are these guys nuts?"
"Master, it's an offshore company investment. We got the clues from the director's circle. Heh, they're being quite cautious."
"Cautious? Heh, this can't be kept under wraps; it's a multi-million dollar investment."
"Seems like that's the case. What's happening in California? Aren't they staunch supporters of the Elephants? Are they planning to jump ship?"
"Tsk tsk, could it be that the excitement over the F-117 is waning? These greedy folks will eventually be consumed by their own avarice."
Well, William White was overthinking things. The investment tactics they're using in Washington are far more sophisticated than he imagined. The world's largest arms companies, tsk tsk, that could really put Boeing in a tough spot; it can't possibly be simple.
They always say the U.S. has five major weapons conglomerates. In truth, it's not nearly that many.
It's straightforward; those flashy weapons known in later years mostly come from their coffers. Boeing has sold off its production rights for the F-16; there's no need to elaborate on how influential they are.
As for how mysterious they are?
Heh, as the foremost military-industrial stock, you can't even find out who the top ten shareholders are -- all trust companies.
Tsk tsk, California! It seems my guy is sitting right on their headquarters.
The California and Texas consortiums both have distinct characteristics. These two entities were both developed post-war.
Making money in the U.S. isn't difficult; as long as you work hard, there are opportunities. However, elevating to the level of a conglomerate is an entirely different ballgame.
There are two main opportunities to become a conglomerate: one during the nation's rebuilding period, and the other during wartime -- wars present a great opportunity for wealth.
Clearly, during Europe's reconstruction, they reaped massive benefits.
Although America lost two wars, these two are the winners. Well, this time, their expected profits are significant, and senior Bush's policies clearly don't align with their interests.
Tsk tsk, looks like Texas is also flipping sides. George, your father is in danger. Well, I can't take on this blame; you all take your time, and I can only help you so much.
William White was now considering running away. Damn, these guys are downright reckless. The Kennedy incident is going to bring trouble to your doorstep. You two are beneficiaries in this too; Don't you plan to get over it?
Ha ha, what if the successor is also a wimp? Are you planning to keep swapping people? Damn, that Monica Lewinsky -- probably one of these bastards' ideas.
Embarrassed into anger?
Ha ha, talk about bad luck for that guy. The Oval Office is not a place to mess around. If only you'd chosen a different spot, it'd be trouble-free.
This time, our richest man really is scared. The two major consortiums working together makes this a game he simply can't play. Fine, do whatever you want. I'm just here to observe.
William White realized there were some gaps in his arrangements. Those little ones at home shouldn't be developing in the U.S. Any unexpected mishap could end up costing them dearly.
Well, clearly, he was overthinking things. At least so far, they were still using conventional methods. Everything was discreet, yet still within legal bounds.
Hmm, could it be that Bush Sr. doesn't want to touch the Wanta plan?
He's not Bush Jr.; he's a seasoned veteran in politics who's seen it all. It won't be easy to throw him off balance.
...
Vin Diesel was feeling happy; he didn't expect to enter the second round. Normally, this round finalizes decisions, especially regarding a film from William White himself.
In Hollywood, if you get a shot at a White Films audition, it means you could hit it big. Forget about the lead; even important supporting roles can catapult someone to fame.
Though he heard the contracts were quite harsh, who cares? Right now, he was just an extra and didn't even have the standing to negotiate.
"Darling, this young hunk is quite the catch."
"Alright, don't scare him off; better just to stay and wreak havoc on me."
Nastassja Kinski shot him an annoyed look. This movie was filled with beautiful faces. Does this guy really want to throw a party?
"Nastassja, this costume photo isn't bad; I was worried he might look too juvenile. To be honest, Paul Walker's star power doesn't compare to this bad boy."
Nastassja was curious; if it were someone else, she might not trust this guy beneath her. When it comes to casting, William White never misses the mark.
"Why do you think that?"
"You need to lose weight! Oh come on, can't you be a little kinder?"
The two happily began discussing the film's plot, but some off-putting noises from outside interrupted them.
The little assistant grimaced, pulling the ajar door shut with a huff. That coffee was wasted; these two certainly seemed eager.
The assistant was feeling quite down. She knew why -- having just learned to drive, she would hate to let go of the gear shift even while sleeping. Well, now she wondered if she'd have any more chances today.
Little did she know, her combat skills were just too weak. William White was neither here nor there for quite some time; damn, being a tycoon is indeed tough.
The recent period had truly been troublesome. The Soviets were on a countdown; all sorts of demons and monsters were coming out to cause problems. Making a public appearance would be better saved for another time.
After a clatter of clothes put on, the room returned to calm.
"Darling, are you planning to hit big at next year's Oscars?"
"Huh, why do you say that?"
"Ha ha, Jurassic Park, The Lion King, The Departed -- goodness, this is a once-in-a-lifetime spectacle in Oscar history. Are you planning to package it all together?"
William White scratched the back of his head, clearly a bit sheepish. Of course, he knew he needed to come up with some forced explanations.
"Look, if I show up once a year, that crowd will only suffer more headaches. Besides, I'm tearing myself apart; if they can't handle me, they might as well quit."
Nastassja Kinski looked skeptical; she was not naive at all. Growing up in the entertainment circle, she had seen it all.
"Are you sure?"
"Of course; I really have no burning desire for those awards. Let's put it this way: there's no hope for Best Actor or Actress. As for Best Director, Spielberg is still ahead. Going by those old guys' preferences, I'd have to struggle for at least another ten years."
"No hope for Best Actor?"
"How could that be? Just being nominated would be a courtesy. Jurassic Park, in the end, relies on special effects. And as for The Departed, well, there might still be a glimmer of hope for Best Supporting Actor."
"I see. This time, the race for Best Actor and Actress will be fiercely competitive."
"Ha, they say pretty faces often hide dull minds. Why do I get the feeling you're getting smarter?"
"Smart woman? I'd rather be a bit dimmer. If I were, I wouldn't have chosen this path."
"You chose your own path; there really is no right or wrong. If you settled down to raise a family, trust me, that man would be utterly miserable."
"I'll make you miserable. I'll make you miserable."
"Here we go again. If it were someone else, they'd be in the hospital by now. Ouch."
*****
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