Building a Conglomerate in Another World - Chapter 65 - The Solution

Harold frowned, his skepticism evident. “And what makes you think I can just switch like that? My entire business is built on horses and carriages. Switching to automobiles isn’t as simple as you make it sound.”

Matthew gestured toward Harold with an open palm. “I understand your hesitation. Change is never easy, but you’re already losing ground. Horse-drawn transportation is becoming obsolete, and the longer you resist, the harder it will be to recover. I’m not offering you a handout—I’m offering you a path forward.”

Harold crossed his arms, his jaw tightening. “And how exactly do you propose I do that? Automobiles are expensive. Even if I wanted to make the switch, where would the money come from?”

Matthew smiled faintly. “That’s where I come in. Hesh Financial Services can provide you with the capital to purchase a fleet of automobiles. You’ll get preferential loan terms because we’ll be working together to grow the automobile industry. We’ll also provide training for your drivers to ensure they’re ready to operate the vehicles safely and efficiently.”

Harold shook his head, his doubt evident. “And what happens if this fails? If I sink everything into this and it doesn’t work, I’ll lose everything.”

Matthew’s expression turned serious. “If you don’t make a change, you’re already on the path to losing everything. The market is shifting whether you like it or not. I’m giving you a chance to adapt—to not just survive but thrive. The alternative is continuing to fight a losing battle.”

Harold leaned back in his chair, his gaze fixed on the table. “You make it sound so easy, but it’s not just about me. My workers… they’re loyal to the old ways. How do I convince them to make this leap?”

Matthew softened his tone. “You lead by example. Show them that the future isn’t something to fear but an opportunity to grow. I’ll even help with the transition—we’ll provide job guarantees for your workers who are willing to train for new roles in the automobile industry. No one has to be left behind.”

Harold looked up, his expression conflicted. “You’ve clearly thought this through. But what if I say no? What if I stick to my business and keep fighting?”

Matthew’s smile faded, and his tone turned icy. “If you say no, then the consequences are on you. The damages caused by the protests and vandalism linked to your name are significant, and I won’t hesitate to pursue legal action. I’ve been patient, but that patience has limits.”

Harold stiffened. “You’re really willing to go that far?”

Matthew nodded. “Absolutely. I have the backing of powerful allies in business and government. If you want to escalate this, you’ll lose—plain and simple. But I don’t want it to come to that, Mr. Pritchard. I’d much rather see you and your workers find success in the new era we’re building.”

The room was silent for a moment as Harold considered his options. Finally, he let out a heavy sigh. “You’re giving me a lot to think about. This isn’t an easy decision.”

Matthew nodded, his tone steady. “I don’t expect you to decide right this second, but understand this: the future is already here, and it’s moving fast. You can either be part of it or be left behind.”

Harold stood, his expression still uncertain. “I’ll consider your offer. But don’t expect me to agree without a fight.”

Matthew stood as well, extending his hand. “I wouldn’t expect anything less. Take your time, but don’t take too long. Opportunities like this don’t come around often.”

Harold hesitated before shaking Matthew’s hand. “We’ll see where this goes.”

As Harold left the meeting, Amber entered the room, having waited outside. “How did it go?” she asked, her curiosity evident.

Matthew exhaled, his expression thoughtful. “He’s hesitant, but I think he’ll come around. He doesn’t have many options left.”

Amber crossed her arms, a small smile tugging at her lips. “You have a way of getting people to see things your way.”

Matthew shrugged. “It’s not about my way—it’s about the way forward. Harold has the chance to adapt and lead his people into the future. If he’s smart, he’ll take it.”

Amber nodded. “And if he doesn’t?”

Matthew’s tone turned firm. “Then we protect what we’ve built. Progress can’t be stopped, Amber. Not by protests, not by fear, and not by nostalgia for a past that’s fading away.”

***

The following morning, Harold called Matthew, requesting another meeting. There was a hint of resignation in Harold’s voice, though he maintained his characteristic gruffness. They agreed to meet later that afternoon at the same neutral office space.

When Harold arrived, his demeanor was more subdued than the day before. He walked in without much ceremony, his shoulders slightly hunched. Matthew stood to greet him, his expression neutral but attentive.

“Mr. Hesh,” Harold began, settling into the chair across from Matthew, “I’ve thought about your offer.”

Matthew nodded. “And?”

Harold sighed, running a hand over his face. “You’re right. Fighting this change is a losing battle. I’ve built my business from the ground up, but the world is moving faster than I can keep up. If I don’t adapt, I’ll lose everything. My workers… they’ll lose everything.”

Matthew leaned forward slightly, his tone firm but encouraging. “It’s not an easy decision, Mr. Pritchard, but it’s the right one. By transitioning your company to automobiles, you’re not just saving your business—you’re giving your workers a future.”

Harold nodded reluctantly. “I’ll accept your offer, on the condition that my workers are taken care of during this transition. Many of them have families, and I won’t leave them out in the cold.”

Matthew’s expression softened. “That was always part of the plan. We’ll guarantee jobs for any of your workers willing to train for roles in the automobile industry. Those who wish to stay on as drivers or start new ventures, like taxis, will receive our full support. This is about creating opportunities, not taking them away.”

Harold looked down at his hands, nodding slowly. “Then I’m in. I’ll transition my company to automobiles. But I’ll need your help convincing my workers. They trust me, but they’ll need more than my word to believe this will work.”

Matthew offered a reassuring smile. “You’re not alone in this. I’ll personally attend a meeting with your workers to explain the plan and answer their questions. Together, we’ll show them that this is the best path forward.”