Chapter 108

Dave knew securing $20 million would be difficult. Even with his father, the wealthiest man in town, he couldn't raise that much without a bank loan. Gilmore, however, was just a college student. Dave couldn't believe Gilmore could amass $20 million to start a company.

Seeing Dave's doubt, Gilmore joked, "What, are you afraid I can't get $20 million?"

Dave smiled awkwardly. "I'm not doubting you, but you're a college student. How could you have that much money?"

"Seems I need to show you another contract." Gilmore pulled a contract from his briefcase and placed it before Dave.

The contract was titled "Share Cooperation Agreement of Evermore Group." Dave read it. On the last page, he saw Gilmore's and Claire's signatures, along with the Carter Semiconductors seal.

Shocked, he asked, "Is Carter Semiconductors backing Evermore Group?"

Carter Semiconductors and the Carter family were tech giants, well-known throughout Oakhaven and Vane. Dave's surprise was understandable.

Gilmore nodded. "Yes, the Carter family backs Evermore Group. Now you know where the money's coming from." He added quietly, "But it's actually my own money; I'm using the Carter family as a cover. It's easier to convince you, and it avoids questions about the money's origin."

Dave accepted the explanation. "Ah, so the Carter family is providing the funds."

"Now, do you think establishing a company is feasible?" Gilmore asked.

Dave hesitated. "Yes, butyou want me to buy all the vegetables from Frostholm farmers? That's a huge amount. Do Evermore Diners in Oakhaven really need that many vegetables?"

Gilmore smiled, then showed Dave a video on his phone. "Take a look at this first."

Curious, Dave watched. The video showed Evermore Diner packed with customers, eating voraciously. Dave's eyes widened. He hadn't expected such popularity. He imagined the vegetable demand once Evermore Diner expanded throughout Oakhaven. A path to wealth seemed to open before him.

Seeing Dave's surprise, Gilmore knew further explanation was unnecessary. He had a long-term plan. The large vegetable volume would supply all Oakhaven Evermore Diners and local Frostholm markets. This was temporary; Evermore Diners would soon dominate the Oakhaven and even Vane catering markets, requiring far more vegetables.

Gilmore put the contract away and produced another one, placing it on the table. "This is the contract for our food purchasing company. If you agree, we can sign now."

Dave examined the contract carefully. The company's capital, share distribution, and management rights were highly favorable to him.

He looked at Gilmore. "You're financing the company, yet you're giving me management control and half the shares. That seems unfair to you." He continued, "How about I ask my father to invest five or six million? What do you think?"

Gilmore shook his head. "No need. Setting up and managing the company will require significant effort from you. I also know your father's real estate project has been struggling lately; he won't have that much money to invest in our food company. If you run our company well, you'll make a lot of money—enough to bail out your father's company or even upgrade it."

Dave was astonished. Gilmore knew about his father's real estate troubles—a secret unknown to outsiders. He assumed Gilmore possessed exceptional business acumen. In reality, Gilmore's knowledge stemmed from his "God's Eye" ability, unknown to Dave. Dave believed Gilmore to be incredibly powerful and insightful.

Stuart (Dave's father) had been struggling to resolve his real estate company's problems and upgrade it, a nearly impossible task. Investing five to six million in Gilmore's food company was out of the question.

Gilmore assured Dave that success with the food company would generate billions and resolve his father's financial problems.

Dave was convinced. The Evermore Group contract revealed the Carter family's support; the video showcased Evermore Diner's success; and he didn't need to invest a cent. Gilmore was offering him a chance at immense wealth.

He didn't hesitate. "Gilmore, I'll sign. From now on, whenever you need me, I'll go through fire and water for you!" he declared, pounding his chest.

Gilmore, knowing Dave's loyalty, handed him a pen. "We're business partners now. You don't need to go through fire and water. I'll make you a rich and successful businessman."

Dave murmured, "A rich and successful businessman." Gilmore's conviction ignited a spark within him. He signed the contract.