Chapter 48

"I still can't believe I'm doing this." Later that week, Chloe murmured as she took a big breath.

"Hey, you said you wanted to rebuild the company, and what you're going to do is the first step. And remember, I'll be there for you the entire time. Now, let's get things started because the sooner we start, the sooner we finish." Chloe nodded as she took another big breath and stepped into the lobby of King Owl Industries, Nell following behind her, where a mob of reporters, including her lover and the only reporter Chloe actually trusted, Andrew Thomas, awaited her as she walked up to the stage.

"Thank you to everyone who came out today. Some of you traveled a significant distance in a short period of time." Andrew grinned when Chloe stated this.

"I'm sure many of you are wondering why I convened a press conference here at King Owl's Security Building. And now you have your answer. My master, King Owl, left both this state and this corporation five years ago, and in his absence, Owl's Defense has fallen into disarray. But today, we take the first step toward reversing that trend and restoring this corporation to its former glory as a shining star in Maryland. And that fresh beginning includes a new name and a new future. This company will no longer be known as King Owl's Security and Defense as of today, because that company has closed. But, from its ashes, a new company rises to take its place. It gives me great pleasure to welcome you all to the beginning of Borge Industries." As the cloth covering the lobby sign was lifted, Chloe noticed that the King Owl's Defense sign had been replaced with a new sign that said CHLOE INDUSTRIES.

She was immediately swamped with inquiries.

"Certainly, Mr. Thomas." Chloe replied, accepting Andrew's query first.

"What prompted you to reopen and rebrand your master's company?" Andrew inquired.

"To address your first question, when this company failed, it laid off a lot of fine people and played a significant role in Maryland's downturn, as it was one of the state's largest employers. I intend to offer new positions to all employees who were laid off by this company if they want them, though it will be slow at first as this company is rebuilt." Chloe stated.

"What is the significance of the name change?" Andrew inquired.

"I just wanted to let everyone know that King Owl is no longer in charge of this business. Furthermore, I believe that a new name is the greatest method for this organization to get a fresh start. King Owl's Defense, like King Owl, is a thing of the past, whereas Chloe Industries, like myself, is a thing of the future." As she went on to another reporter, Chloe said.

"What does one of King Owl's closest allies, Adam Robert, think of your decision?" The New York Times' Vell Jenkins inquired.

"Why don't you approach him?" As Adam Robert approached the podium, Chloe inquired.

"This entire decision was actually a terrific idea, and it has my full support. My father, if he were here, and I both love Maryland and want to see this company succeed. But it was Chloe who returned first and started working to repair it. As the CEO of this company, she has my entire support, and while I want to assist her in every way I can, she is the face and leader that this company requires to flourish. Especially since her name will be on the building." Robert said as Chloe reclaimed control.

"And, as I introduce the newest subsidiary of Chloe Industries, I'm also announcing our first project to both rebuild this firm and help Maryland. Maryland Pride Realty. Our objective is to rehabilitate derelict developments outside of the Vulture's districts and make them affordable to the working class." As she continued dealing with the journalists, Chloe said.

Nell's smile as he watched Chloe bask in the spotlight warmed his heart. She is a wonderful person in this world. He knows he'll have to leave one day to return to his planet, which makes him sad. But all that matters to Nell is that he executes this mission as soon as possible. He doesn't want Microsoft X to be kept waiting for good news much longer.