Chapter 13: Chase Rivers

It wasn't long before the formal portion of the evening began.

The violin and string ensemble paused their performance, and the grand hall fell silent. Conversations halted as everyone turned to face the wide staircase at the far end of the room.

Striding down the steps, Chase Rivers smiled broadly, raising his glass to the assembled guests.

"Welcome, everyone! Today, I see a gathering of brilliant scientists and talented entrepreneurs. Your presence here truly honors me—thank you all for coming!"

A wave of applause swept through the hall.

Up to this point, Elias had only seen Chase Rivers from behind, noting his imposing build. Now he had a chance to observe the man's face: keen-eyed and strongly defined, with features that suggested he'd been quite handsome in his youth. Though Rivers was over fifty, he exuded an air of vitality. He wore a genial smile, yet there was a natural authority about him that made people instinctively hold their breath.

When the applause died down, Rivers descended to the center of the hall. His voice rang out confidently:

"For many years, I've believed that scientific progress is our primary engine of growth. Every comfort we enjoy today—every prosperity that makes this country great—flows from technological advancement and the tireless efforts of our researchers!"

He gestured around the hall, meeting people's eyes with unwavering conviction.

"Any industry's success stands on the foundation of scientific innovation. The men and women who devote themselves to lab work and research—often without recognition—are the real heroes we should respect!"

He gave a self-deprecating chuckle.

"As for me, I'm just a businessman who happened to benefit from a booming era here in New York. Next to those who advance science, my contributions to society or the country can't compare. That's why we're here tonight—this fundraiser for scientific research is my way of urging all you bright young minds in business to pay more attention to R&D. Let's help drive our country's scientific excellence forward!"

He paused and set down his glass, then lifted his right index finger high:

"Rivers Corporation will donate ten million dollars to the New York Science Advancement Fund!"

Gasps rippled through the hall.

Ten million, right at the start.

The room buzzed with shock, followed by thunderous applause. People turned to one another in awe at the magnitude of his generosity.

But Rivers wasn't done. He picked up the mic again, wearing a wry smile.

"That was my company's pledge. Yet it doesn't fully express my personal admiration for our scientists."

"In addition, I'll be donating another ten million dollars from my personal funds!"

The entire hall erupted with excitement—twenty million in total. The crowd's amazement soared to new heights as applause and cheers filled the air. More than a few younger entrepreneurs were practically starstruck, looking at Rivers as if he were a living legend.

***

Elias couldn't help but notice that even Professor Ethan West, who'd seemed aloof and uninterested earlier, was now clapping vigorously. His eyes shone with genuine respect.

"Huh, looks like Professor West really admires Chase Rivers," Elias remarked softly.

Beside him, Ms. Miranda Harrington gave a knowing smile.

"What man wouldn't want to be in Rivers's shoes? Plus, West has his own reasons for esteeming him. Rivers never spouts empty words—he's long been a true patron of scientific endeavors."

She explained how Rivers had for years invested in labs, sponsored scholarships, assisted underfunded projects, and helped scientists get resources they needed. Many leading researchers openly praised him for genuinely advancing American science.

"For example," she added, "Professor West's cryonics research has struggled for ages, but guess who quietly covered many of his lab expenses?"

So that explained it. Elias realized West might normally dislike corporate schmoozing, yet he respected Rivers, who'd personally funded many of his experiments. West likely felt obliged to support the event—hence his presence, even though galas hardly suited his style.

***

After Rivers's rousing announcement, it was time for other attendees to offer their pledges. The smallest donations were still in the six-digit range. Ms. Harrington pitched in one million, which was a decent chunk of change—easily overshadowed by the multi-million gifts, but enough to warrant respect.

Clearly, only top-tier players were invited here. Rivers's circle wasn't open to just anyone. Even Ms. Harrington, successful as she was, hadn't managed to get close enough for a one-on-one conversation with him tonight.

Once the donations concluded, the atmosphere shifted to a more relaxed dance phase. High-end appetizers were laid out on tables around the room, leaving the center space open as a dance floor. On the second-floor balcony, a small orchestra replaced the solo violinist, filling the space with soft, classical melodies.

At some point, Rivers quietly slipped out, and Professor West also left once the dancing began.

As couples swirled elegantly across the dance floor, others sat at tables to enjoy the catered delicacies. Ms. Harrington took a seat near the perimeter, gracefully sampling hors d'oeuvres and sipping wine, while Elias stood behind her.

He noticed how many people seemed on the verge of approaching Ms. Harrington—men of various ages looking ready to invite her to dance. But spotting Elias at her side, they paused, flashed an "Ah, I see" look, and politely moved on.

"Should I… stand farther away?" Elias leaned down, keeping his voice low.

She dabbed her lips with a napkin and closed her eyes.

"If you were out of sight, what would be the point of bringing you here?"

"Understood," he said.

She gestured toward an empty chair. "Sit down. Have something to eat."

***

And so, time passed without much excitement. Ms. Harrington sat with her eyes half-closed, apparently lost in thought—likely pondering how she might persuade Professor West. She'd donated a million dollars tonight, presumably aiming to curry favor with him. But Elias could only guess her efforts had been in vain. West was far too stubborn to be swayed by a simple gesture of money.

Maybe if Chase Rivers spoke on her behalf? Rivers was West's sponsor, after all, but a man of his stature wouldn't meddle in Ms. Harrington's negotiations. The two barely seemed on the same tier.

It's a dead end, Elias thought. He had no solution to offer. In the presence of these heavyweights, he was barely a bystander.

In his dream world, Elias was a force to be reckoned with—a free spirit who could steal cars or blow up vault doors if he pleased. But here in the waking world, among real titans of industry, he was barely a ripple in the water. No one paid him any mind.

Better to just head home and get some rest, he thought. At least in my dream, I can get something done.