Chapter 7
Leo sat in the corner of the upscale lounge Ryan had invited him to, his gaze drifting across the luxurious decor. Ornate chandeliers hung from the ceiling, their golden light reflecting off polished marble floors. Emma, looking slightly out of place but charming in her simplicity, sat beside him, her hands clasped tightly in her lap.
"You know," Ryan began, leaning back in his chair with a playful grin, "you really impressed me with how you managed to sway those shareholders. Not every day I see someone handle a shark like Hensley and come out ahead."
Leo smirked. "What can I say? I've got a way with people."
Ryan chuckled. "You sure do. That's why I figured it's time to introduce you to some... let's call them 'key players.'"
Leo raised an eyebrow. "Key players?"
"Yeah, the rich kids' circle around here. Trust me, knowing them will make your life easier. Plus," Ryan added with a wink, "you'll fit right in, Mr. Bitcoin Millionaire."
The group had gathered in a private room at the back of the lounge. The atmosphere was relaxed but charged with the unspoken rivalry and camaraderie of people who had known each other their whole lives.
Leo scanned the room as Ryan introduced him. The most notable figure was a confident-looking young man seated at the head of the table. He had sharp features, dark eyes, and an aura of authority that was hard to miss.
"This," Ryan said with a flourish, "is Ethan Lancaster, the son of the richest man in the city and, unofficially, the leader of our little circle."
Ethan extended a hand with a polite smile. "Ryan's been talking you up. Nice to finally meet the Bitcoin legend."
Leo shook his hand firmly. "Nice to meet you too. Though I'm not sure 'legend' is the right word."
"You've turned few bucks into millions," Ethan said, leaning back in his chair. "That's legendary in my book."
Emma, feeling self-conscious, sat quietly as the introductions continued. But Ryan, ever the joker, couldn't resist stirring the pot.
"You know," Ryan said, smirking at Emma, "Leo's got it made with a girl like you. Most girls I meet are only after my wallet. We both know I've got the money, they've got the fun—it's a win-win. But it's never the real deal."
Emma's cheeks flushed. "We're not... I mean, Leo and I aren't in a relationship."
Ryan feigned shock. "Really? Well then, Emma, how about you and I—"
"No," Emma interrupted with a polite smile, leaving Ryan speechless. The room erupted in laughter.
"Looks like you've got no luck with good women, Ryan," Ethan teased.
Leo's expression darkened slightly. "Alright, that's enough," he said firmly. "No more jokes like that."
The room quieted, with Ryan raising his hands in mock surrender. "Got it, got it. Protective, huh? Fine, I'll behave."
After the initial introductions, the group began talking about business. Ethan turned to Leo with a serious expression.
"Leo, I've been thinking. My influence is extensive, but there's always room to grow. I want to expand beyond that, start something big. But funds have always been... an obstacle."
Leo frowned. "Funds? You're Ethan Lancaster. How is that even a problem?"
"It's complicated," Ethan admitted. "Let's just say I have access to resources, but not the freedom to use them as I please. I want to partner with someone like you. What do you think?"
Leo leaned back, intrigued. "What's your plan?"
Ethan hesitated. "I don't have one yet."
Leo stared at him in disbelief. "Seriously, dude? You're asking me to invest with no plan?"
Emma, who had been listening quietly, hesitated before speaking up. "Actually... I might have an idea."
Both boys turned to her, surprised.
"What kind of idea?" Ethan asked, leaning forward.
Emma glanced at Leo for reassurance before continuing. "I was thinking about starting a premium logistics and delivery platform, one that focuses on same-day and ultra-reliable delivery services for high-value goods. With the rise of e-commerce and luxury sales online, there's a huge gap in the market for safe, discreet, and fast delivery for expensive items—things like luxury watches, jewelry, or even high-end electronics."
Ethan raised an eyebrow. "Interesting. Go on."
Emma grew more confident as she explained. "We could position ourselves as the go-to service for companies and individuals who want to ensure their items are delivered without risk of damage, theft, or delay. Imagine partnering with top luxury brands or even auction houses. The margins on this could be enormous if we do it right."
Leo whistled. "That's... actually brilliant. There's a clear demand for that kind of service, and people with money will pay a premium for peace of mind."
Ethan nodded, visibly impressed. "It's niche, but it has massive potential. I like it."
Emma smiled shyly. "Do you really think it could work?"
Ethan grinned. "Oh, it'll work. But you'll have to be part of it. This is your idea."
Leo leaned in. "Exactly. But first, we need to talk numbers. Ethan and I will fund the startup costs, but you'll need a stake in the company too."
Ethan smirked. "Alright, let's figure this out. Leo and I take 30% each, and Emma gets 8%."
"Fifteen?" Leo interjected. "It's her idea. She should get more."
"More?" Ethan protested. "She's not the one funding this thing."
"She's the brains behind it. Fifteen or nothing," Leo said firmly.
Ethan groaned, rubbing his temples. "Fine. Fifteen. But that's not how you negotiate, Leo."
Emma blinked, her face a mix of confusion and surprise. "Wait, shares? Are you saying I own part of the company?"
Leo grinned. "Exactly. And you're going to be the CEO."
Emma's eyes widened. "CEO? Me?"
Ethan chuckled. "You're the only one who knows what they're doing. Besides, Leo and I are better at delegating."
Ryan, who had been quietly sipping his drink, leaned over with a smirk. "Translation: they're going to dump all the work on you."
Leo and Ethan looked away, feigning interest in the ceiling.
Emma shook her head, but a small smile crept onto her lips. "I don't know if I can do this, but... thank you. I'll do my best."
Leo patted her shoulder. "You'll do great. And remember, you're not alone in this."