Chapter 45

Chapter 45: A Formidable Newcomer

Wesley's technical team, though capable, faced a formidable challenge developing two consecutive software projects quickly. With time of the essence, Song Yang decided to launch the Hotmail mailbox swiftly, aiming to create a valuable asset and attract a major financial backer promptly.

Recruiting a new team presented its challenges. Instead, Song Yang considered an alternative strategy – collaborating with Jotus from Wang An Company. Greg, Irene, and Wesley, initially surprised by the suggestion, soon recognized its feasibility.

"Wang An has the technology, talent, and funds. Partnering with them for Hotmail is a viable solution," Greg acknowledged.

Song Yang wasted no time. "I'll call Jotus. Wesley, assemble a new technical team for the ICQ project."

In the small office, agreements were drawn, ensuring the new ventures were separate entities from Double-Click. To avoid legal entanglements like the Jayden incident, Greg engaged legal experts to formulate comprehensive agreements.

Irene, foreseeing potential repercussions with WPP Group, commented, "Martin Solo may not be pleased if he finds out."

While acknowledging the crucial funds from WPP, Song Yang asserted, "Double-Click has rewarded WPP enough. Now, we're entering new territories."

Later, Irene shared news about discussions with Yahoo regarding a potential share exchange. Song Yang, understanding the delicate situation, chose not to outright reject the proposal.

A call to Yahoo revealed Brady's conditions – a 5% stake in Yahoo for a 20% stake in Double-Click, along with a cash infusion of no less than five million US dollars. Song Yang, taken aback, labeled it as a "robbery."

Brady explained the fairness based on Double-Click's valuation. Softbank's approval was essential, and Song Yang hinted at WPP Group's potential resistance.

After a brief pause, Brady agreed to the conditions. The conversation hinted that Yahoo might be open to further negotiations.

Concerned about the potential of yielding too much to Yahoo, Song Yang contemplated the situation. An unexpected call to Jotus sparked interest in a new project. Song Yang proposed joining forces for the Hotmail project, seeking Jotus's technical expertise, patents, and funds.

Jotus, intrigued by Song Yang's vision, agreed to invest in Wang An. "Song, what do you need?" he asked.

"Technical talents, some patents for e-mail, and funds," Song Yang straightforwardly requested.

Jotus readily agreed, promising to visit Houston himself. As the calls concluded, Song Yang sensed that Yahoo's conditions might be negotiable.

In the evening, Song Yang, with gifts from Irene, returned to the community where Greg lived. The roar of his Ferrari F50 drew attention, and residents marveled at Greg's seemingly newfound affluence.

Inside Greg's home, Dana welcomed Song Yang and Gallo, expressing both joy and mild complaint. She urged them to stay rather than renting separate apartments.

Listening to Dana's complaints, Song Yang and Gallo, familiar with her ways, took it in stride. Gallo, munching on a fruit, explained, "We've been busy lately."

As the day ended, Song Yang and Gallo found themselves back in a familiar setting, navigating through both new ventures and familial camaraderie.

(End of this chapter)