I'm The King of Business & Technology in the Modern World

The Sentinel Systems headquarters buzzed with renewed energy as the expansion plans went into full swing. It wasn't long before the team sprang into action, each member focusing on their designated tasks.

Matthew sat at his workstation, overseeing the progress on several fronts. The office lease discussions for BGC had accelerated, with Leo and Saimon conducting site visits throughout the week. They had sent pictures of several potential office spaces—ultra-modern towers with spacious floors and state-of-the-art facilities.

"Matthew, check this one out," Saimon said over a video call, turning his phone camera toward a panoramic view of the Manila skyline from one of the top floors. "Prime location. Plenty of room for R&D and secure data centers. We could build out a separate wing for server infrastructure."

"Looks promising," Matthew replied. "Make sure the security specs are non-negotiable. Biometric access, private entrances for executives, and secure firewalls between departments."

Leo chimed in. "Already noted. We've got a meeting with building management tomorrow to finalize the details if you approve."

"Let's go with it. Time is of the essence," Matthew confirmed.

Meanwhile, Daniel coordinated the recruitment efforts from his office. A string of video conferences with top recruitment firms had yielded positive results. Specialists in cybersecurity, network engineering, and data architecture had been identified. Some were already lining up for interviews.

In another part of the building, an HR team assembled under Daniel's guidance to develop internship and scholarship programs. Leo spearheaded the university outreach, securing partnerships with Ateneo, UP, and La Salle. The schools were enthusiastic about the opportunity, knowing that their students would be trained by one of the most advanced tech firms in the country.

"They're ready to send us their best," Leo reported in a team meeting. "I've already spoken to the heads of their tech departments. We'll have interns and entry-level hires joining in the next quarter."

"Great," Matthew said. "But don't stop there. Expand the search to Singapore and Tokyo. We need diversity in perspectives, especially with the kind of clients we'll be dealing with."

"On it," Leo replied.

At the same time, partnerships with telecom providers for the data centers were underway. Daniel had secured preliminary agreements with major telecom giants in Singapore and Silicon Valley. Teams were dispatched to scout sites for their data operations, ensuring high redundancy, low latency, and top-tier encryption measures.

By mid-afternoon, Matthew received word that a construction firm had been hired to build out their secure server rooms at the new BGC office. He took a moment to reflect on how far they had come. This wasn't just a tech company anymore—it was a global operation in the making.

Saimon entered the room carrying a folder full of architectural designs for the new headquarters. "Blueprints just came in," he said, spreading them across the conference room table. "R&D labs will have direct access to the server rooms through isolated corridors. We've also got space for an executive briefing room—fully soundproof."

Matthew examined the designs carefully. "This looks solid. But I want one more thing—an offsite disaster recovery facility. If anything compromises the main office, we need a backup center where critical operations can continue."

"I'll coordinate that with the contractors," Saimon said, scribbling a note.

By evening, the team gathered again to review their progress. Everyone looked tired but satisfied. Things were finally falling into place, and the scale of their ambitions was beginning to materialize.

As they wrapped up, Matthew's phone buzzed unexpectedly. He glanced at the screen. It was a U.S. number, but the caller ID wasn't one he recognized.

"Strange," he muttered, answering the call and putting it on speaker. "This is Matthew Borja."

"Matthew, good evening," came a calm yet distinctive voice. "This is Elon Musk."

The room fell silent, everyone frozen in place. Saimon's jaw dropped, and Leo mouthed, No way.

"Elon Musk?" Matthew repeated, raising an eyebrow. He leaned forward, gripping the edge of the table. "To what do I owe the pleasure?"

"I heard about Sentinel Systems and your recent partnership with the U.S. government," Elon said casually. "Impressive work. We might have some common interests."

Matthew exchanged a glance with Daniel, who gave a subtle nod, indicating he should keep the conversation going.

"Common interests, huh? I'm intrigued," Matthew said, keeping his tone steady. "What exactly do you have in mind?"

"Well," Elon continued, "I'm always on the lookout for cutting-edge cybersecurity. SpaceX, Tesla, and Neuralink could benefit from enhanced digital protection. And I hear your system is... revolutionary."

Matthew felt a surge of excitement tempered by caution. "Our system's capabilities are tailored to specific needs, but I'm open to discussing potential collaborations. What are you thinking?"

"I'll cut to the chase," Elon said. "I want Sentinel Systems to secure our most critical infrastructure—everything from SpaceX's satellite networks to Tesla's autonomous driving protocols. And I'm willing to invest heavily to make that happen. And not only that, I want to get in on your company as well because I am sure, you'd want an investor that supports growth especially on technologies."

Matthew leaned back, processing Elon Musk's words. An investment from one of the most influential tech entrepreneurs in the world was no small offer. Not only he would get money from Elon, but also prestige and global recognition. Having a name like Elon Musk backing Sentinel Systems would instantly elevate the company's profile. It would open doors to collaborations with other tech giants, attract top-tier talent, and establish them as a leader in cybersecurity across industries they hadn't even considered.

But Matthew also knew the risks. Letting someone like Musk have a stake in the company meant potential influence on key decisions. Elon was known for his unconventional, sometimes unpredictable style. Sentinel Systems needed strategic partnerships, not a power struggle over control.

"I appreciate the offer, Elon," Matthew said after a moment of thought. "An investment from you would mean a lot for our company's growth. But I have to be transparent. Sentinel Systems has always prioritized autonomy, especially given the sensitive nature of the clients and networks we're working with."

"Of course," Elon responded smoothly. "I'm not looking to take control, Matthew. I believe in empowering visionaries. I've built my companies by giving talented people the tools and support they need to push the boundaries of technology. That's all I'd be doing here—giving you the resources to go further and faster than you could on your own."

"Very well, I hold you on that."