Wealth Changes Everything

Chapter Thirteen: Wealth Changes Everything

The Weight of a Billion-Dollar Empire

Ali sat comfortably in the lavish office of Imperial Grand Hotels, across from Richard Coleman, who studied him with a measured gaze. The room was lined with mahogany bookshelves, and behind Richard was a large window overlooking the Manhattan skyline.

Richard steepled his fingers. "Now that the formalities are done, let's talk numbers."

Ali nodded, his posture relaxed but his mind sharp.

"The Imperial Grand Hotel Group is valued at approximately $4.5 billion," Richard began. "You now own 7% of that. But, as you know, the value of shares fluctuates based on market conditions."

Ali listened carefully.

Richard continued, "Now, let's talk dividends. We distribute annual dividends based on net profits. Last year, the company's net profit was around $620 million. At 7%, that means your dividend payout this year is roughly..." Richard paused, letting the moment stretch.

Ali had already done the math.

"$43.4 million."

Richard smirked. "You're quick." He slid a folder across the table. "Your first payment is being processed as we speak. You should see the funds in your account within the next hour."

Ali maintained his composure, but inside, his mind was racing. Just a few weeks ago, he had been struggling to make ends meet. Now, he was receiving over $43 million in a single transaction.

Richard chuckled. "If you need guidance on managing your wealth, I can connect you with top-tier financial advisors. Also, as I mentioned before, I have connections in high-end real estate. If you're looking for a penthouse, I can get you access to off-market listings."

Ali's mind clicked into place. This was the perfect time to upgrade his parents' home.

He picked up Richard's card and stood. "I might take you up on that offer soon."

Richard smiled. "Pleasure doing business with you, Mr. Ali."

As Ali walked out of the office, his phone buzzed.

[Bank Notification: Incoming Transfer - $43,400,000.00]

Ali exhaled sharply.

It was real.

A Home Fit for a King

That evening, Ali sat with his parents in their small Brooklyn apartment. The cramped living room had peeling wallpaper, the couch was worn out, and the dim lighting made the space feel even smaller.

His mother,Saira, was sipping tea after a long shift at the café. His father, Raza, sat across from him, rubbing his tired hands.

Ali looked around. This was not the life they deserved.

"I want to buy a new home for us," Ali said.

His parents looked up.

Raza raised an eyebrow. "A new home?"

Ali nodded. "A luxury apartment. No more small spaces, no more worrying about rent. We're upgrading."

Amina frowned. "Ali, that sounds expensive—"

"I can afford it," Ali interrupted gently. "And you both deserve it."

Raza studied his son carefully. "Are you sure this is not an impulsive decision?"

Ali smiled. "Trust me, Dad. It's time for a change."

The next morning, Ali took his parents to view high-end apartments across Manhattan. They toured several penthouses—each more extravagant than the last.

One had floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Central Park, another had a rooftop infinity pool, and a third had a private elevator and marble interiors.

After hours of searching, they settled on a sprawling, 5-bedroom penthouse in the Upper East Side. It had breathtaking views of the city, a gourmet kitchen, and luxurious bedrooms.

His mother's eyes shimmered as she walked through the space. "It's beautiful…"

Ali placed a hand on her shoulder. "It's ours."

Although,his parents were a little reluctant to let him spend so much but they knew that he was doing this to thank them for being such good parents.So,they said nothing.

The paperwork was signed, and just like that—Ali had bought his parents their dream home.

An Unwelcome Guest at the Café

The next day, at Raza's Café, business was booming. The place had been renovated, the menu expanded, and a full staff was now handling the rush of customers.

But then, someone walked in who wasn't welcome.

Natasha.

Ali's ex-girlfriend strutted inside, dressed in an expensive designer outfit. She glanced around the café, unimpressed.

Her gaze landed on Raza, Ali's father.

Natasha's lips curled. So, this old man works here?

A waiter approached her. "May I take your order, ma'am?"

Natasha barely glanced at him. She was annoyed.

She had assumed that after breaking up with Ali, he would fall apart. Instead, she heard rumors that he was doing well. That irritated her.

"Fine," she muttered. "Tell that person there,to bring me a cappuccino"she said as she pointed to Raza

The waiter turned to leave and whispered something to Raza about Natasha's behavior.

Raza looked over and instantly recognized her. Ali's ex.

His expression remained calm, professional. He was a man of respect.

So, despite knowing who she was, he personally went to take her order.

He placed the cappuccino in front of her. "Here you go, miss."

Natasha coldly took a sip—then suddenly scowled.

"What is this?!" she snapped. "This is disgusting. Do you even know how to make a proper cappuccino?"

A few customers turned their heads.

Some said;

"We are also drinking cappuccino but there is nothing wrong with it"

"Yeah! And I even think this is the best cappuccino in my life"

Raza remained calm. "I assure you, miss, it's made to perfection."

But Natasha wanted a reason to lash out. She pushed the cup away. "Get me another one. And do it right this time."

As she was disturbing the peace of the cafe.Raza became anger as he is showing but the other party don't want it.

Raza's expression didn't change. "No need." He gestured toward the security guards at the entrance.

"Escort her out."

Natasha's face flushed red. "What?! You can't—"

"You're disturbing my café," Raza said simply. "And from now on, you're banned from entering."

Before she could argue, two guards grabbed her arms and dragged her out.

She kicked and screamed, but within seconds, the door slammed shut behind her.

Natasha stood outside, breathing heavily. Humiliated.

And then she saw the sign.

"Raza's Café.""Manhattan Brews"

Her eyes widened.

"This café belongs to Ali's father…?" she whispered.

Slowly, realization dawned.

Had Ali lied to her?

Had he pretended his family was poor, when in reality, they owned a successful business?

A feeling of unease settled in her stomach.

She didn't go after Ali as she thought he was just a pretty boy with no wealth.

But what if she had made the biggest mistake of her life?