Chapter 192: The Podcast

Meanwhile, at Bridget's hotel. Two hours since they landed in Manila.

"Ms. von Reimann, thank you for referring Mr. Reyes to me. He is my very first client that I handled this year," Collins said over the phone.

"I told you, he would buy that private aircraft," Bridget replied.

"But you better control your man there, he is kind of an impulsive buyer. He could have selected an aircraft that is cheaper, smaller, and doesn't require much maintenance and yet still chose the Dreamliner."

"He just has a lot of money and he kind of doesn't know what to do with it, but yeah, I already knew Michael is an impulsive buyer."

"I'd still give you a share of my commission," Collins said.

Bridget rolled her eyes, leaning back in her hotel room chair. "Why? To make it seem like I'm encouraging Michael's impulsive buying habits?"

"Just a token of appreciation," Collins replied on the other end of the line. "Besides, you did help seal the deal. It's the least I can do."

"Fair enough," Bridget said. "But I don't need it anyways. I am not in need of money."

"You don't, Ms. von Reimann. After all, you are already ultra-high rich net worth," Collins continued, emphasizing Bridget's status. "It's just my way of saying thank you for the referral."

"Thanks, but I'm all set. If you really want to do me a favor, just keep my name out of it when talking to Michael. The last thing I need is him thinking I had anything to do with his spending choices." Bridget was wary of any appearance of impropriety. She'd rather stay on the sidelines when it came to Michael's business dealings.

"I understand. I'll keep it discreet," Collins reassured her. "The plane will still be delivered in a month."

"It's quite fast."

"Because we already have a unit on standby," Collins explained. "It just needs some customization to meet Michael's requirements, but it shouldn't take long. We'll handle the final touches and ensure it's ready for delivery on schedule."

Bridget nodded, relieved that the process was moving smoothly. "Good. Just make sure everything is perfect for him. He doesn't like delays or unexpected issues."

Michael glanced at the printout, scanning the list of potential questions. It seemed manageable, but he knew these interviews could take a different turn once the cameras started rolling.

"Okay, I'll do it. But I want it scheduled for tomorrow morning. The sooner, the better."

"I'll arrange it," Juliet said, taking the invitation back. "It'll be quick and to the point. And if they try to veer off-topic, I'll be there to steer it back on course."

"Perfect," Michael said, getting back to his paperwork. He had more pressing matters to attend to, but he knew the importance of maintaining a positive public image. It could make a difference in the upcoming Senate hearing and with his future business ventures.

***

A day later.

The podcast is hosted by none other than a famous content creator, businessman, and financial advisor in the Philippines, Franklin Ballesteros. He got his famed sharing financial advice and even urged young Filipinos to make their move in the financial market to grow their wealth. He had a large following, with millions of subscribers across various social media platforms.

As Michael entered the recording studio, he was greeted by Franklin's team, who quickly set him up with a microphone and headphones.

"Welcome, Mr. Reyes! It's great to have you on the show," Franklin said, shaking Michael's hand. "We've been looking forward to hearing from you. Our audience is excited to learn more about your journey and your recent successes."

"Thanks for having me," Michael replied, taking a seat at the podcast table. "I'm glad to be here."

Franklin started with a few warm-up questions, asking about Michael's life and achievements, his inspiration, and how he did it. Pretty much what has been asked by a journalist a few years and months back, so it didn't take him any thoughts to answer that question.

"That's great to hear that. Now, you did all of that while you were studying?"

"Yeah, juggling work and studies," Michael answered.

"Why not quit studying and simply focus on business? You are already a multi-millionaire and I don't think you'd need a diploma to get you set for life."

"I'd want a degree," Michael gave a simple answer. "Because having a prefix of engineer is a cool thing and it's my dream. Even if I earn millions of money, I'd still get that diploma."

"I see...moving on to the next question, is it true that you have a senate hearing in the coming weeks?"