Chapter 66

Vision and Enterprises

"Wise choice—those born on the opposite side of Washington are a mixed bunch. They're often irritable, prone to trouble, and unreliable. Once they carry the title of "free leader," they're easily manipulated by opportunists, and any mess they create inevitably falls on the boss's shoulders.It's difficult for congressmen and Washington elites to have a favorable impression of them"Ben admired Charlie Lee's judgment.

Though Charlie could be unpredictable, at critical moments, he always understood his role and position.

"Boss, 80% of the McDonald's franchise stores under IL have been finalized, and Burke De has begun work on Saibaiwei. The laying of Starlight Avenue is progressing smoothly. Because it's positioned as a symbol of the city, Los Angeles authorities want the Chamber of Commerce under government supervision."

"What about the Star Theater?" Charlie asked with a nod.

"The stage is completed, and the guest seating area is expected to be finished by the end of the month," Ben replied, glancing at his notes.

"I heard there was some trouble with the Chamber of Commerce." Charlie's lips curved into an amused smile.

"Emo managed to sway Douglas to our side, but immediately after, she filed a lawsuit against Louis for racial discrimination. This tied him up in legal disputes, giving Douglas the opportunity to poach judges from the Academy. Within half a month, there were barely any left," Ben explained.

"Good," Charlie said with satisfaction. "I can't invest heavily in Hollywood just yet. Let Emo set up an independent brokerage firm."

"Can you really play the game like this?" Ben marveled, giving a thumbs-up. To him, Paramount's idea of signing actors to contracts had been revolutionary. Yet, Charlie's vision was leagues ahead.

By turning first-rate actors into independent entities, free of studio affiliation, they would become highly sought after by major companies. Without being bound by any single studio, these superstars would have unparalleled bargaining power.

"We're not MGM actors. We're not Paramount actors. We are our own brand," Charlie mused aloud.

This model would empower actors to seek the best contracts and highest salaries, while also broadening their reach and influence. A superstar without the "stamp" of a studio is a blank check waiting to be cashed.

"The name will be DreamWorks," Charlie added casually.

Ben handed Charlie a new set of documents. "Boss, this pertains to your charity plans. Also, we've secured 53% of FSC's shares. We can now announce our ownership."

Philanthropy was a necessary move—not just to offset taxes but to boost Charlie's reputation. "Time to generate some positive energy," he mused.

The think tank's proposal included: building 60 public libraries across the United States ($2 million), donating to 120 orphanages ($1.2 million), and establishing 20 relief stations ($60,000 per month) until the economic crisis subsides. The focus would be on Illinois and California, aligning with the industrial shift westward.

Charlie agreed with most of the plan, but one clause caught his attention. "What's this about allowing two orphans to stay in my house?"

"Boss, hosting children will elevate your standing among the poor and middle-class families. In the U.S., 46% of middle-class families have hosted children at some point," Ben explained.

The image of middle-class families paying respects at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier flashed in Charlie's mind. "Only two?"

"Just two," Ben confirmed.

"Alright, I'll allow it," Charlie relented. "The house in Area 22 is big enough, and there's plenty of space. As long as they don't trouble Lao Huang too much."

After signing the document, Charlie moved to another set. This time, it outlined the acquisition of aviation companies.

"What's special about this one?" Charlie pointed to a name on the list.

"Detroit Aircraft," Ben replied. "They tried establishing their own R&D department before going bankrupt. They still have skilled technical talent."

"And the other six companies?"

"All small businesses impacted by the economic downturn. Their assets include complete production lines and a workforce of skilled laborers," Ben explained.

"Detroit has a factory in Santa Barbara, doesn't it?" Charlie asked.

"Yes, it was acquired by a smaller company before Detroit bought it," Ben confirmed.

"Acquire them all. Merge the operations under a new entity based in Santa Barbara, and call it American Aerospace," Charlie instructed as he signed off.

"Understood." Ben was accustomed to Charlie's ambitious endeavors.

"I want results quickly. After the merger, establish a Skunk Works R&D center," Charlie added, eager to see progress on his dream of specialized aviation projects.

"Are we talking about a massive aircraft again?" Ben asked, recalling Charlie's earlier vision of a colossal plane with five or six stories and wings longer than a stadium.

"No," Charlie clarified. "Focus on developing flight engines first."

Ben was relieved. Engines were a more practical starting point than Charlie's previous grandiose ideas.

"How's the collaboration with the University of Chicago progressing?" Charlie asked, mindful of the need for top-tier talent.

"It's been challenging," Ben admitted. "Most professors and researchers prefer the academic environment over working for a fledgling company. They've been raising their demands repeatedly."

"Then negotiate a cooperation agreement. When we need expertise, they assist us, and all patents remain ours. In return, we'll provide annual donations for their labs and experiments," Charlie suggested.

Ben nodded. He understood that dealing with scholars often required patience. "Anything else, boss?"

"What's DuPont up to lately?" Charlie asked, shifting topics.

"Ever since rumors spread about your connections in New York, David DuPont has been keeping a low profile. Their estate security has increased fivefold," Ben said with a smirk.

"They're nothing more than sneaky rats," Charlie scoffed.

Before they could discuss further, a familiar voice called from downstairs. "Charlie, are you home?"

"Upstairs, come on up!" Charlie replied.

"I'll head out now, boss," Ben said, leaving the room as Lawrence entered.

"Did you secure the property?" Charlie asked, reclining on the springy bed.

"Don't even bring it up," Lawrence groaned, his earlier enthusiasm deflated.

"I told you not to come back without it," Charlie teased.

"I came out for you, you ungrateful jerk," Lawrence retorted dramatically.

"Oh, spare me the theatrics," Charlie said, feigning a retch.

"Damn you, Charlie. You'll regret this!" Lawrence threatened with mock fury, pulling out two tickets. "Opera master from China—interested?"

Charlie's eyes lit up. "Of course."

With that, their conversation turned to lighter topics, a fitting end to an afternoon of heavy planning and big decisions.