Chapter 34

Chris rapped on the table, calling for everyone's attention.

"Everyone," he said, "I have some good news. Nolan Pharmaceuticals is looking to increase its share pool, and we're welcoming new investors. Is anyone interested?"

"New investors?" Everyone's attention snapped to him.

Nolan Pharmaceuticals was an industry-leading corporation with very limited shares available. Chris's announcement shocked everyone at the table.

"Hasn't the company been doing alright, Mr. Nolan? Why the sudden invitation?" Dahlia asked curiously.

"Of course, it has," Chris replied, smiling. "We're planning to go public. As you all know, our company isn't short on talent or the ability to overcome competition. This share listing will provide funds for employee bonuses this season. We haven't officially announced this publicly yet, and spots are limited. If anyone's interested, we can reserve some for you."

That got everyone excited. Nolan Pharmaceuticals could easily bring them hefty profits!

"Count me in, Mr. Nolan! I have five million to spare!" James called out eagerly.

"Eight million from me!" Florence added.

Chris beamed. "Alright, two spots for you both."

"Hey, I want a share too! Three million from me!"

"Five five million for me—that's all my life savings!"

The family began shouting over each other, worried they wouldn't get shares. It was a perfect example of herd mentality.

"What about you, Dahlia? How many shares would you like?" Chris turned to Dahlia. "I can give you extra, considering our relationship."

Dahlia paused, thoughtful. She had learned much in her career and knew not to make decisions based solely on sentiment.

"Don't you trust me, Dahlia? I'm offering you shares because you're important to me. You can say no—plenty of others are waiting," Chris said, a slight huff in his tone.

"I didn't mean it like that. I'll be joining a company with the Harmons soon, so I'm being careful with my funds," she explained.

"How much do you have available?" Chris asked.

"A million, at most."

"That's more than enough! Frankly, you don't need much to work with the Harmons. Why not invest in my company instead? We pay solid dividends each year."

"He's right, Dahlia. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!" Florence exclaimed.

"What are you waiting for, sis? You can trust Mr. Nolan. He's helped you so many times!" James added.

"If you believe in me, Dahlia, invest. But if not, it's fine," Chris relented.

After some hesitation, Dahlia nodded. She was doing this to repay Chris, and his insistence made refusing feel disrespectful. The investment didn't seem like a bad idea.

Just like that, Dahlia's million dollars were promised to Nolan Pharmaceuticals.

"What about you, Dustin? Want a share?" Chris asked, his smirk unconcealed. "Oh, and by the way, the minimum investment is one million. A great opportunity to earn big if you have that much to start."

"Thanks, but no thanks."

"Heh, I see Not interested? Or don't you have enough? How about this: For Dahlia's sake, I'll let you have a ten-million-dollar share if you can put down at least a hundred thousand," Chris grinned.

Dustin replied nonchalantly, "No, thank you. I have no interest in a company on the verge of collapse."

That brought Chris's mood to a shocked standstill.