Benjamin Harris, a seasoned and highly respected executive, leaned forward slightly as he posed his question:"The project's annual losses are still rising. Given that, how confident are you in your profit forecast?"
Aiden Thompson, unfazed by the direct question, responded in a measured tone. "Mr. Harris, I have strong confidence in our profit forecast, backed by extensive data analysis. Of course, no project comes without risk, but let me explain our reasoning."
Benjamin Harris gave a thoughtful nod, signaling his interest.
"As we all know, venture capital involves inherent risks. No company can claim 100% certainty in its projections—market disruptions, regulatory changes, or unforeseen external factors always pose challenges. However, our analysis incorporates historical market trends, technological advancements, and industry growth trajectories. Based on these factors, we assess a high probability of success, with a balanced approach to risk and opportunity."
Harris considered the response before posing another concern. "Vertical farming is promising, but its high costs remain a major hurdle. Can it truly compete with traditional agriculture in the long run?"
Aiden, prepared for this question, smoothly navigated to the next slide. "That's a great point, Mr. Harris. Let's look at the data."
The screen displayed a financial breakdown. "Since its inception, AgroTech has secured strong investor backing, allowing significant investments in infrastructure and technology. While upfront costs are substantial, our financial projections show a clear path to long-term profitability. Key factors include automation, operational efficiencies, and transitioning to renewable energy sources like solar and wind power, which will significantly reduce electricity expenses over time. Additionally, vertical farming allows for higher land efficiency, reduced labor costs, and better yield predictability—advantages that give it a competitive edge in the evolving agricultural landscape."
Harris gave a slow nod. "That's a well-structured response. I appreciate the thorough analysis."
As the meeting wrapped up, other executives followed with their own questions. Aiden answered each with confidence, reinforcing his expertise.
Afterward, as the team exited the conference room, Ryan clapped Aiden on the back. "Dude, you crushed it in there! I mean, I knew you were good, but that was next-level. Six months in, and you're already making waves. That Oxford MBA is paying off."
Aiden, not one for excessive physical contact, gave Ryan a pointed look. "Come on, Ryan, you know I'm not into that."
Ryan smirked. "Oh, I bet if it were your girlfriend, you wouldn't mind."
Aiden's gaze briefly flicked toward Grace Li, who was walking ahead. A subtle smile crossed his lips. "Well, a girlfriend is a different story."
Grace caught the comment but kept her expression neutral. Still, a small, knowing smile tugged at the corners of her mouth as she continued walking.
Back at the office, the team gathered to debrief. Grace addressed them with a nod. "Aiden's presentation was excellent, and everyone's hard work helped make this a success. Now, let's focus on next steps and how we can build on this momentum."
The discussion quickly turned to strategy, with Aiden actively contributing ideas. As he spoke, Grace observed him with quiet pride. She had no doubt—Aiden was a rising star. And as their professional and personal relationship evolved, she was eager to see where it would lead.
After the meeting, Scarlet Harris walked into her father Benjamin Harris's office, her hands playfully tucked behind her back. With a teasing smile, she asked, "Dad, what did you think of Aiden Thompson's presentation?"
Benjamin Harris walked around his desk and eased into his chair, considering his response carefully. "Pretty impressive. His logic was tight, his points were clear, and he has a sharp eye for what matters. Honestly, he's better than some employees who've been here for years."
Scarlet's grin widened. "Of course! And that's just scratching the surface of what he can do."
Catching the subtle excitement in his daughter's voice, Benjamin gave her a knowing look. "You seem to have taken quite an interest in him."
Scarlet pursed her lips slightly before replying, "He's talented, Dad. You think so too, don't you? So it's only natural I'd pay attention."
Benjamin respected Aiden's abilities, but he still had his reservations. The guy was bright, no doubt, but he was still early in his career. He leaned back in his chair and said, "Well, what about the younger son of Vitality Group's chairman? He's got a solid future ahead of him."
Scarlet's face immediately soured. "Dad, absolutely not. Just because he looks polished on the outside doesn't mean he's actually got his act together. The guy's all over social media partying with influencers. That's not my type."
Benjamin chuckled at her bluntness. "Fair enough. But your aunt has plenty of great connections—she could introduce you to someone equally impressive."
Scarlet rolled her eyes but couldn't help laughing. "Does it really have to be about status?" She shot him a playful look. "Besides, you know an Oxford MBA isn't cheap—so maybe we're not so different after all."
Benjamin raised an eyebrow. "Oxford MBA, huh? I didn't realize."
"Yep," Scarlet said confidently. "And that means he's smart, ambitious, and driven. That's gotta count for something, right? Way better than some spoiled rich kid who's never had to work for anything."
Benjamin rarely heard his daughter speak so highly of someone. It was clear she was genuinely interested. "And what about him? Is he interested in you?"
Scarlet bit her lip, a rare flicker of shyness crossing her face. "Dad, I just got back to the company not long ago. We don't know each other that well yet—we're still figuring things out."
Benjamin decided not to push further. If Scarlet was serious, time would tell. Instead, he changed the subject. "I've got a meeting this afternoon. You're coming with me—it'll be a good learning opportunity."
"Sounds good," she said, happy to move on.
A little after five in the afternoon, Aiden Thompson's phone rang. He glanced at the caller ID, then got up and stepped out of his office.
At the front entrance of the company, a florist delivery guy holding a large bouquet of vibrant red roses was looking around. As soon as he saw Aiden, he stepped forward.
"Mr. Thompson?"
"Yes, that's me."
The delivery guy handed over the bouquet along with a small card. "Here you go. Enjoy!"
Aiden took the flowers and smiled. "Thanks."
As he walked back into the office, holding the bouquet in one hand, the receptionist caught sight of him and leaned toward a colleague. "Wow, someone's feeling special today."
On his way back to his desk, a coworker from another team grinned. "Nice! Who's the lucky one?"
Aiden replied casually, "They're for someone."
"For your girlfriend?"
"You got it."
The coworker gasped dramatically. "Ouch, there go my chances." The people nearby chuckled.
Unfazed, Aiden walked into his office. Olivia, sitting near the entrance, immediately spotted the bouquet and raised an eyebrow. "Aiden, where'd those come from?"
"I bought them."
Ryan, who had been typing away at his desk, immediately turned around. "Whoa! Red roses? Man, there's gotta be a story here."
Mike smirked. "Aiden, don't tell me you actually have a girlfriend now?"
Aiden instinctively glanced at Grace Li—just as she happened to look up at him. Their eyes met for a second before Grace quickly looked down at her paperwork, pretending to be focused.
Her heart was pounding. She wasn't sure if it was because Aiden looked ridiculously handsome in his suit, holding that bouquet, or because she was nervous about people finding out.
Aiden walked over to his desk and set the bouquet in the corner, slightly out of sight.
Ryan rolled his chair over. "Dude, since when? I sit right next to you and had no clue."
Aiden was already typing away at his keyboard. Without looking up, he said, "It's personal. You don't need to know."
"Wow, cold. I ask as a good friend, and you shut me down like that?"
Another coworker took a sip of coffee. "Man, with all the late nights you put in, you don't seem like a guy in a relationship."
Aiden shrugged. "She's just as busy."
Ryan leaned in again. "So, who is she? Someone in our industry?"
Aiden pushed Ryan's head away with a light tap. "It's a secret. Stop asking."
"Keeping secrets now, huh?"
As the office quieted down, Aiden saw a message from Grace pop up. She had even attached a meme: [Peeking from behind a door.jpg]
Aiden chuckled.
Aiden: LOL! What's up?
Grace: Just watching you put on a show.
Aiden: I'm not acting. The flowers are actually for my girlfriend.
Grace: Oh? Which girlfriend?
Aiden: The one I'm texting right now.
Grace: The flowers are nice, but don't you think they're a little flashy?
Aiden: That's the point. Now everyone knows I have a girlfriend.
Grace: …
Aiden: Let's head out early today. Seven sharp.
Grace: Where are we going?
Aiden: I made a reservation. We're celebrating our first Valentine's Day together.
Grace: Okay.