chapter 72

Ambitions, Bonds, and Challenges

The firecrackers that covered the streets erupted in a dazzling spectacle, their loud cracks blending into the rhythmic beats of gongs and drums. The pungent smell of smoke hung heavy in the air, creating an electrifying atmosphere of celebration. Charlie Lee stood on the makeshift stage, holding little Norma tightly in his arms. A confident smile adorned his face as he faced the crowd of reporters and the incessant flashing of camera spotlights.

Little Norma, however, seemed uneasy. Her small hands, clammy with sweat, clung to Charlie's reassuring grip. She kept glancing up at him, her wide, nervous eyes seeking comfort. Charlie would lean down occasionally, offering her a warm smile, and like magic, her anxiety would melt away. A beautiful, innocent smile would return to her young face, lighting up the moment.

"Mr. Lee," a reporter began eagerly, "why did you choose to enter the fast-food industry? What is your outlook on its future?"

"Because everyone needs to eat," Charlie replied confidently, his voice steady despite the clamor around him. "There's an old saying in China: clothing, food, housing, and transportation are the four pillars of any thriving civilization. I believe in the fast-food industry's potential as much as I believe in the promising future of the United States."

Another reporter chimed in, "Mr. Lee, what are your thoughts on the current struggles facing the United States?"

"America is a great country," Charlie said with conviction. "It is built on the strength and contributions of individuals from all corners of the world. I have absolute faith in its ability to overcome challenges and thrive."

"Mr. Lee," another voice called out, "is it true that the Blue and White Chamber of Commerce, which you fund, will maintain its 20 distribution points until the end of the current crisis?"

"Absolutely," Charlie confirmed with a nod.

"One last question, Mr. Lee," a bold reporter pressed. "There's been much speculation about the source of your wealth. Do you have any comments on that?"

Charlie's smile remained intact, though his tone turned firm. "Everything I've accomplished has been within the bounds of the law. As a citizen, I reserve the right to answer—or not answer—such questions. That freedom is the cornerstone of our democracy."

The questions continued, but after addressing a few more, Charlie stepped off the stage with little Norma, retreating to the headquarters of the Blue and White Chamber of Commerce in Building A. The grand design for the Blue and White Building, a project involving tens of millions of dollars, was still in its bidding phase, with plans far from finalized. For now, the chamber's operations ran from this temporary setup.

Once inside, Charlie gently released Norma's hand, which was still slightly damp from her earlier nerves. Ruffling her hair affectionately, he asked, "How are you feeling now?"

"Good," Norma replied brightly, her earlier anxiety replaced by excitement.

Charlie chuckled. "You seemed right at home on that stage. Maybe one day, you'll become a big star!"

Norma's eyes sparkled with wonder. "Do you think I can?"

"Of course," Charlie said earnestly, crouching to meet her gaze. "You have the talent and the spirit. You can choose whatever life you want, Norma."

Her small fists clenched with determination as she looked at him. "Then I'll try my best."

In her young heart, Charlie had already become an irreplaceable presence—a beacon of warmth and security.

Before the moment could linger, a loud, boisterous voice interrupted them. "Charlie, you clean up well today!" Lawrence, Charlie's friend and confidant, strode forward, punching him lightly on the shoulder before pulling him into a bear hug.

Charlie raised an eyebrow, feigning irritation. "Do you want me to punch you back, huh?"

"Please, spare me," Lawrence laughed, raising his hands in mock surrender. "I've seen what you're capable of. Your punches could shatter bones!"

Charlie chuckled, shaking his head. "You're impossible."

Spotting Norma beside him, Charlie gestured toward her. "Norma, this is Lawrence. He's a bit of a troublemaker, but he's reliable when it counts."

"Hey there, little angel," Lawrence said warmly, crouching to her level. From his pocket, he pulled out a small gift box and handed it to her. "This is for you, Norma."

"Thank you, Mr. Lawrence," Norma said softly, her shy demeanor evident as she hesitated to take the gift.

With an encouraging nod from Charlie, Norma finally accepted the box. Inside, nestled in velvet, was a delicate ruby necklace. The gemstone caught the light, mesmerizing Norma as she held it in her small hands.

"Allow me," Charlie said, taking the necklace and fastening it around her neck. "Little princess, may I have the honor of crowning you with this?"

Norma nodded excitedly, her fingers brushing the ruby as she admired her reflection in a nearby mirror. "It's so beautiful," she whispered.

"Women and gems—an eternal love story," Charlie joked, raising his hands in mock defeat.

Lawrence grinned but soon turned serious. "Charlie, are you planning to adopt her?"

"No," Charlie said quickly, his tone firm. "She's just staying with me temporarily. Boarding, that's all."

Lawrence raised an eyebrow, leaning closer. "You don't have any… you know, strange ideas, do you?" he asked hesitantly.

"Get out of here!" Charlie snapped, kicking Lawrence lightly. "What kind of person do you think I am?"

Lawrence laughed nervously, raising his hands. "Alright, alright. Just making sure."

Deep down, Charlie wrestled with complicated emotions. Norma was destined to become like Marilyn Monroe, an icon whose beauty and tragedy would captivate the world. He felt an overwhelming responsibility to protect her, yet he knew he couldn't tamper too much with fate.

As the evening wore on, the celebratory atmosphere shifted to a more formal gathering. Guests mingled, drinks flowed, and deals were subtly negotiated. Charlie found himself approached by Yevich, a local politician, who had a favor to ask.

"Charlie," Yevich began with a smile, "I need a discreet place for some… private meetings. You know how it is."

Charlie nodded, understanding the implications. "I'll have my secretary deliver the key to the top suite of the Central Apartment tomorrow," he said smoothly.

"Thanks, Charlie," Yevich replied, raising his glass. "You're a true friend."

Charlie smirked, his sharp mind already calculating the potential benefits of this "friendship."

As the night wound down, Charlie stood by the balcony, gazing out at the city lights. His journey from humble beginnings to this moment of influence and power had been extraordinary. Yet, amidst the deals, ambitions, and connections, it was the innocent trust of a little girl like Norma that reminded him of the importance of doing good—even in a world driven by self-interest.