Chapter 40

Chapter 40: Can't Escape

Seeing Adrian's gaze, Song Yang thought for a moment, understanding Adrian's intentions.

"According to the plan, Double-Click will expand its advertising sales staff to 300 people by the end of the year..."

Before Song Yang could finish, Adrian interjected, "By the end of next month, Double-Click will complete its staff expansion!"

Adrian's move was clear—he wanted to use the creation of 300 new jobs to secure votes for the upcoming mayoral election. These 300 jobs could potentially influence 600 or even 800 votes.

Understanding the political game at play, Song Yang felt uneasy. Adrian's request disrupted Double-Click's original expansion plan.

Matthews, standing aside, intervened, "Mr. Adrian, I recall you are promoting a proposal for emerging technology companies in Houston?"

Adrian, acting as if he had just remembered, explained to Song Yang, "I am promoting a proposal for emerging technology companies in Houston. It will exempt emerging companies like Double-Click from taxes for one year, facilitating their development."

This was a clear exchange. Song Yang was to add 300 jobs to Adrian's constituency, and in return, Adrian would use his political influence to grant Double-Click a tax exemption for a year.

Considering the benefits, Song Yang found no reason to refuse. "I also believe that Double-Click has reached a stage where expansion is necessary."

"I think Congressman Adrian is the best candidate for mayor of Houston. For this reason, I am willing to donate funds to Congressman Adrian's campaign office!"

Adrian, pleased with Song Yang's response, smiled. Song Yang's willingness to invest in his campaign signaled strong support.

As Adrian and Matthews moved on to the next person, Adrian whispered to Matthews, "Not bad, young man!"

Matthews, more cautious than Adrian, noted, "Young people are prone to make mistakes and often can't judge who their allies and opponents are. In addition, most of his wealth is just paper wealth..."

Adrian, looking back at Song Yang, expressed his hope that Song Yang would rise. He expressed dissatisfaction with the likes of Cheniere Energy, United Energy, and others.

As Adrian and Matthews left, another significant figure approached Song Yang—Kenneth, the CEO of Enron Energy.

"President Kenneth!"

Song Yang hadn't expected Kenneth to seek him out specifically.

"Is it convenient to say a few words?" Kenneth handed Song Yang a glass of wine.

Song Yang accepted the wine, and Kenneth began, "Although Enron is a traditional energy company, it is not against emerging businesses. In fact, Enron is preparing for the telecommunications business!"

Taking a sip of wine, Song Yang showed surprise. Kenneth's revelation was unexpected. "Enron is at the forefront of the times, more innovative than Microsoft and Intel!"

Kenneth appreciated Song Yang's praise. "Enron intends to develop in the telecommunications, broadband, and internet industries. Maybe Anran and Double-Click can cooperate!"

With a pat on the shoulder, Kenneth left.

In the small restaurant, Song Yang was left somewhat impressed. Associating with a giant like Enron was a significant development for Double-Click. However, Song Yang couldn't shake the feeling of unease. He suspected that Kenneth's proposal involved Enron Online, a trading website, and he couldn't shake the anticipation of what was to come.

(End of this chapter)