Chapter 95

Bridging Education and Humanity

"I'm sorry, Charlie. Am I late?" Grant wiped the sweat from his forehead. It was an unusually warm April day, and his clothes clung to him, drenched in perspiration.

"Don't be so nervous, Grant. It's just a small matter," Charlie Lee said with a calm smile, his tone reassuring.

"What exactly happened?" Grant asked, lowering his voice as he glanced at the detained men being escorted away by his officers.

Charlie gestured to Mahdi, signaling him to explain the situation. As Mahdi began recounting the events, Charlie subtly winked at Monk. "Tell Paul that from today onward, I don't want to see anything like this happening around Chicago," Charlie said, his voice firm and expression cold.

"Understood, boss. I'll talk to Paul myself," Monk replied with a nod, already planning how to enforce the directive.

When Mahdi and Monk returned, the details had been clarified, and Grant, now fully aware of the events, requested Janet to accompany them to the police station to provide her testimony.

"Charlie, what do you want to do about this? The boy is underage. If we hand him over to the courts, he'll likely receive nothing more than a slap on the wrist," Grant said with a sigh, clearly frustrated by the system's limitations.

"Follow the standard procedures," Charlie replied with a composed smile. He had already decided to delegate the matter to Paul, trusting him to handle the situation. Boys like the culprit would surely be disciplined and taught a lesson they would never forget.

"You'll ensure my safety, won't you?" Janet asked nervously, her gaze flickering between Grant and Charlie.

"Monk, assign two men to accompany Mrs…" Charlie trailed off, glancing at Janet for her full name.

"Janet," she replied curtly, avoiding her surname, a reminder of her marital status.

"Very well. Send two men to escort Mrs. Janet and ensure her safety until she reaches home," Charlie instructed. Though he found Janet unremarkable, he felt compelled to protect the child she carried. In his mind, no matter how ruthless the adult world might be, children should remain untouched by its cruelties.

"Thank you for your help, Mr. Lee. But I'll be leaving Chicago tonight. If you ever find yourself in New York, please contact me—I'd like the opportunity to properly express my gratitude." Janet handed Charlie a business card, her name printed simply as "Mrs. Bouville."

"Goodbye," Charlie said casually, passing the card to Monk without a second thought. He wasn't looking for thanks; his only concern had been ensuring the safety of an innocent child. With the matter resolved, he now turned his attention to his next destination.

However, as Janet boarded her car, thoughts of Charlie lingered in her mind. She began to consider the possibility of connecting her eldest daughter with him. "If he can stay this remarkable for a few more years, my little princess Jacqueline will be of age by then. They'd make a perfect pair," she mused. At just three years old, Jacqueline's future seemed distant, but Janet knew how quickly time could fly.

"If he's divorced by then, wouldn't it be even better? A man like Charlie, with his achievements, ought to have multiple marriages to showcase his success," she thought with a wry smile. At only 18 now, Charlie's youth and potential were unmatched, and Janet found herself imagining his golden future.

At last, Charlie arrived at Zhida Vocational College, where he spotted Elan waiting for him in front of the building.

"Uncle Elan," Charlie called out warmly, quickening his pace to embrace the older man.

"Ha, you're still as strong as ever," Elan chuckled, patting Charlie on the back. He turned to the thin, middle-aged man beside him and said, "Charlie, meet my old friend, John Dewey."

"It's an honor to meet you, Mr. Dewey," Charlie said, extending his hand.

"Likewise," Dewey replied with a polite smile before the three men began walking toward the college.

"So, Charlie, I hear you're interested in applying my experimental teaching methods," Dewey began, his voice tinged with curiosity.

"Yes, Mr. Dewey," Charlie responded earnestly. "It's undeniable that discrimination and oppression are deeply embedded in this country's fabric, though progress is slowly being made. Unfortunately, children can't afford to wait for systemic change. That's why I want to establish a school system that is open to all, regardless of race or background, for those genuinely seeking knowledge."

Dewey's expression grew serious as he listened. Charlie continued, "We'll create a robust education rewards system: waiving fees for families in need, offering scholarships, and partnering with renowned European institutions. If this model succeeds, I plan to expand it globally, building schools in regions where education is desperately needed. The goal is to empower children with knowledge and transform their lives."

Dewey, deep in thought, nodded approvingly. Charlie seized the moment. "Of course, such a project requires meticulous planning. We'll start by recruiting young graduates as teaching assistants. They'll learn alongside seasoned educators, ensuring a balance of experience and innovation. This approach will not only prevent errors but also nurture a new generation of educators. What do you think?"

"An excellent idea," Dewey said, clearly impressed. "Charlie, your vision aligns closely with my own principles. You've given me new inspiration today."

Charlie smiled. Gaining Dewey's trust was a critical step in his plans.

As their conversation continued, Elan interjected with a note about Dewey School's inadequate library facilities. Charlie immediately offered a $100,000 donation.

Dewey, touched by the gesture, stopped in his tracks and bowed deeply. "Thank you, Charlie. The children will benefit greatly from your generosity."

"It's my pleasure," Charlie replied, relishing the opportunity to combine altruism with reputation-building.

To further solidify his relationship with Dewey, Charlie added, "I would also like to appoint you as the Permanent Honorary Principal of our new school. I hope this isn't too presumptuous."

Dewey hesitated briefly before smiling. "It would be my honor. I hope one day to be proud of what this institution accomplishes."

"I have no doubt that day will come soon," Charlie said confidently, shaking Dewey's hand firmly.

After their meeting, Dewey declined Charlie's dinner invitation, citing pressing commitments at the school. On the drive to the restaurant, Elan offered a word of caution.

"Dewey is a true scholar, Charlie. Don't use your business tricks on him."

Charlie nodded sincerely. "You're right, Uncle Elan. I'll be more mindful in the future."

"Good. And remember, if you want his continued support, don't turn the school into an elite institution. It would go against everything he stands for," Elan added.

As the car rolled on, Charlie's mind buzzed with plans for the future. He was determined to use his influence and resources not just for personal gain but to leave a lasting legacy—one that bridged the gap between power, wealth, and humanity.

With Dewey's support and a clear vision, Charlie knew he was on the brink of something transformative, not just for education but for the lives of countless children worldwide.