Chapter 6: A Back Door
Leo stared at his laptop, drumming his fingers on the desk. The plan was risky, but what choice did he have? Emma deserved to go to a good college without having to worry about him dragging her down. If his grades couldn't get him in, he'd have to take another route.
A back door.
He leaned back in his chair, a smirk playing on his lips. "If money can't buy happiness, at least it can buy influence," he muttered.
But first, he needed an in.
Calling Ryan
Leo scrolled through his contacts and found the name: Ryan Cook. Ryan wasn't exactly a close friend, but he was well-connected. If anyone could help him find a way into Sunvale College, it was him.
The phone rang twice before Ryan's cheerful voice answered. "Leo? Long time no see! To what do I owe the pleasure?"
"Ryan, I need a favor," Leo said, cutting to the chase.
"Straight to the point, huh? I like it. What kind of favor?"
"I need to buy shares in Sunvale College."
There was a pause, followed by a low whistle. "Sunvale? That's ambitious. Why the sudden interest? Don't tell me you're trying to buy your way into college."
Leo chuckled. "Let's just say I've got my reasons. Can you help me or not?"
"Hmm..." Ryan's voice trailed off, the sound of typing in the background. "You're in luck. I know a guy—Mr. Hensley. He owns a decent chunk of Sunvale shares. He might be willing to sell, but I'll warn you, he's not easy to deal with."
"I'll handle it," Leo said confidently.
"You sure? This guy's a shark. He'll smell blood the moment you sit down."
Leo smirked. "Good thing I've got deep pockets."
Ryan laughed. "Alright, I'll set up a meeting. But don't blame me if he eats you alive."
Meeting Mr. Hensley
Two days later, Leo found himself in an upscale restaurant, nervously checking his watch. The place oozed sophistication, with soft lighting, polished wood floors, and waiters who looked like they'd walked out of a fashion magazine.
Leo adjusted his collar, trying to look composed as Mr. Hensley approached. The man was in his late forties, dressed in a tailored suit that screamed wealth. His sharp eyes scanned Leo with calculated precision.
"Mr. Cook spoke highly of you," Hensley said, extending a hand.
Leo shook it firmly. "I appreciate you taking the time to meet with me."
They sat down, and a waiter appeared to take their orders. Leo opted for a simple coffee, while Hensley ordered an expensive whiskey.
"So," Hensley began, swirling his glass. "Ryan mentioned you're interested in my Sunvale shares. Why?"
Leo leaned forward, his expression calm. "I believe in investing in education, and Sunvale has a solid reputation. Owning shares in a prestigious institution seems like a smart move."
Hensley smirked. "Cut the act. You're trying to get into Sunvale, aren't you?"
Leo hesitated for a fraction of a second before nodding. "You're not wrong. But my reasons don't change the fact that I'm serious about buying. I'm prepared to offer 20% above market value."
Hensley raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. "20%? That's... generous. What's the catch?"
"No catch," Leo said, sliding a piece of paper across the table with the offer. "I just value efficiency."
Hensley studied the paper, his sharp eyes narrowing. After a moment, he nodded. "Alright. You've got yourself a deal. But let me give you some advice, kid: this world doesn't hand out favors. If you're planning to use these shares for leverage, be prepared to pay the price."
Leo smiled. "Thanks for the advice. I'll keep that in mind."
Expanding the Network
With 8% of the college shares now under his name, Leo knew it wasn't enough. He needed more leverage. Using Ryan's connections, he arranged meetings with other shareholders.
Most were hesitant to sell outright, but Leo had an alternative plan.
"I'm not just here to buy," he explained during one meeting. "I want to build relationships. You keep your shares, but help me get what I need, and I'll owe you a favor. You never know when having a wealthy friend might come in handy."
The shareholders exchanged glances, clearly intrigued. Leo's calm demeanor and straightforward approach won them over. By the end of the week, he had a small coalition of shareholders willing to vouch for him on the college board.
Breaking the News
Leo returned home that evening, a triumphant grin on his face. The living room was cozy and warm, with Emma sitting on the couch next to his mom, flipping through college brochures.
"What's with the face?" Emma asked, raising an eyebrow.
Leo dropped onto the chair across from them. "We're going to Sunvale together."
Emma blinked. "What? How? You said you didn't have the grades."
Leo waved a hand dismissively. "Grades are overrated. Let's just say I found another way in."
Emma frowned. "Leo... you didn't do anything illegal, did you?"
"Of course not!" he said, feigning offense. "It's called networking. You should try it sometime."
Emma sighed, shaking her head. "You're impossible."
"And yet, you keep sticking around," Leo shot back with a grin.
Emma couldn't help but smile. "I guess someone has to keep an eye on you."
Leo leaned back, satisfied. Things were finally falling into place.