Chapter 150: Groundbreaking Ceremony

Five days later, Michael stood on the very ground where the future Golden Topper would rise. The site was transformed, buzzing with activity in preparation for the groundbreaking ceremony. Various tents had been set up, each serving a different purpose.

Among them, food stalls offered a variety of local and international delicacies, catering to the diverse tastes of the attendees expected at the event.

The area was alive with the sound of workers finalizing arrangements and decorators adding finishing touches to the scene. A large tent, designated for the main ceremony, dominated the site, with rows of chairs neatly arranged facing a ceremonial platform.

This platform, adorned with a large banner of the Golden Topper's architectural rendering, was where the key figures in the project would soon make their speeches and official gestures to commence construction.

Around the perimeter, media crews set up their equipment, preparing to broadcast the event to a wider audience. Security personnel patrolled the area, ensuring everything remained orderly and safe for the guests.

Meanwhile, Michael was with his team, sharing a glass of wine with one another.

"What did you say about us not having to give our share for the construction of this skyscraper?" Bridget was the first to ask.

"Yeah...what's with that?" Antoinette joined in, looking at Michael for answers.

Michael set down his glass. "Well, it turns out that Mr. Wei, from JinkoSolar, indirectly contributed to our funding," he explained, a slight smirk on his face.

"Indirectly? How so?" Bridget raised an eyebrow, curious about the turn of events

"How come you have forgotten the settlement agreement where JinkoSolar agreed to pay us 1 billion dollars for their attempted hack and steal our technology?" Michael reminded them, his tone serious yet tinged with satisfaction.

Antoinette's eyes widened as realization dawned. "So, we're essentially using that settlement money to fund the construction of the Golden Topper?"

"Exactly," Michael confirmed. "Instead of pulling from our own resources, we're utilizing the funds from that settlement. It's an unexpected turn of events but definitely in our favor. This means our financial contributions can remain intact for other investments and operational needs."

Lastly, Michael touched on the recreational facilities, including landscaped gardens, fitness centers, and leisure areas designed for relaxation and community building.

"The Golden Topper will not just be a place to work or live; it will be a space where people can connect, create, and unwind."

With the Golden Topper, we are not just constructing a building; we are creating a landmark that embodies the spirit of innovation and the promise of a brighter future. That's all, thank you very much."

Michael took a step back from the podium, then bowed slightly, acknowledging the enthusiastic applause from the crowd.

As the clapping subsided, Michael rejoined his team, and together they watched as the ceremonial shovels were brought to the site.

Bridget, Antoinette, and the rest of the team exchanged looks of pride and excitement.

With the shovels piercing the earth, the cameras captured the historic moment. From afar, someone is watching.

"They are growing too fast," Viktor said, as he took a sip of his whiskey. "They started in 2024 and now they are already building a state-of-the-art skyscraper for their company? Maria, they are entering the American market right?"

"That seems to be right, Mr. Gravsen."

"Then let's talk to our political friends in Washington about this," Viktor continued, his gaze still fixed on the live feed of the groundbreaking ceremony.

***

Meanwhile, in Beijing China.

Mr. Wei threw a glass of wine into the wall, his frustration palpable as he watched the live feed of the Golden Topper groundbreaking ceremony. The success of SolaraTech, a direct competitor to his company JinkoSolar, was a bitter pill to swallow.

"They're not just growing; they're thriving, and it's on our dime," Mr. Wei seethed, glaring at the screen where Michael Reyes was speaking with confidence and vision about the future. "Okay...you are forcing my hand huh?"