Building a Business Empire with my Technological System

Chapter 156: The Burnout

"Mr. Reyes, I have already compiled the documents we needed to file a complaint with the WTO," Juliet announced as she entered Michael's office, carrying a thick folder of papers.

Michael looked up from his computer. "Don't expect me to read all that, Juliet. You have to summarize it for me."

Juliet smiled, understanding Michael's aversion to lengthy documents. "Of course, Mr. Reyes. In short, these regulations China is imposing are unfairly targeting foreign solar companies, including ours. They're violating several WTO rules, especially those regarding trade non-discrimination and market access."

Michael nodded, his attention now fully on Juliet. "So, what's our angle in challenging this?"

"Our main argument," Juliet continued, leaning against a chair, "is that these new policies are protectionist. They're designed to shield Chinese solar companies from competition. We're highlighting how this goes against the commitments China made when they joined the WTO."

"And how strong is our case?" Michael asked, his expression serious.

"Pretty strong," Juliet replied confidently. "We've got solid evidence of the impact on the businesses of foreign solar companies. Plus, the legal precedents support our position. The key will be proving that these measures are unnecessary and discriminatory."

Michael leaned forward, intrigued. "And what happens next?"

"We officially submit the complaint, then enter a consultation phase with China through the WTO. If that doesn't resolve things, we push for a panel to review the case. It's a bit of a process, but it's the best shot we have to counter these restrictions."

"Good work, Juliet," Michael said with a nod of approval. "As always, you get things done. As expected of a secretary from the von Reimann family."

"Your praise is appreciated, Mr. Reyes," Juliet responded with a polite nod. "I'll proceed with the submission process and coordinate with our legal team to ensure we're fully prepared for the consultations."

"You can leave it with our legal team because I have something more important task that I need you to help me with," Michael said as he leaned forward, steepling his fingers.

Curious, Juliet locked gaze with Michael. "What is it, Mr. Reyes?"

"How familiar are you with the pharmaceutical company?" Michael inquired.

"Pharmaceutical company?" Juliet repeated, wondering why Michael was asking about that. "I have some understanding, particularly in the regulatory and compliance aspects. Why do you ask?"

"I have a plan on starting a new enterprise," Michael revealed. "And the pharmaceutical company is the one that interests me."

"Mr. Reyes, we just started a new enterprise, that's the Reyes Transportation Company."

"Who's to say that there is a rule for starting a new enterprise just after another? The pharmaceutical sector has potential, especially with our tech background. I believe we can make a significant impact there."

Juliet nodded, understanding the ambition behind Michael's idea. "In that case, Mr. Reyes, what product are we planning on selling with this enterprise? Is it going to be a drug?"

"No, a technological one," Michael said. "Juliet, I am an inventor and scientist kind of guy. Medical technologies!"

"Medical technologies? Then we are not starting a pharmaceutical rather a medical technology company," Juliet pointed out.

"I know but there is also this drug that I have found," Michael said, looking at the holographic screen of the technological system in front of him. Juliet can't see it. There is a list of drugs that cure incurable diseases like cancer, Alzheimer's, and even rare genetic disorders. Of course, he can't reveal all his hands in one plate, he'd take it slow and then move from there.

"So I want you to prepare me a list of things needed to start a Pharmaceutical Company. While you are at it, I'm going to discuss this with our primary investors, Ms. von Reimann and Mrs. Estolas," Michael ordered.

Juliet sighed, and Michael noticed that.

"Why are you sighing," Michael asked.

"Uhm…as your secretary, it is my job to do what you order but lately, I have been noticing the extreme workload that you are giving me. I'm concerned about the feasibility of managing both the WTO complaint and setting up a new pharmaceutical enterprise simultaneously," Juliet explained.

Michael leaned back, considering her point. "Yeah…I think I have been harsh to you, Ms. Schmidt. I have been giving you task after task. You completed them in time but I didn't realize that you were exhausted. A company would call for pizza delivery and have it served in your office, but this is different."

He looked at his wristwatch to check the time. "Do you want to go out together for dinner later in the evening? My treat."

Juliet was taken aback by the sudden offer. "Mr. Reyes, I appreciate the offer, but I don't think it's appropriate for us to—"

Michael cut her off with a gentle wave of his hand. "It's not a date, Juliet. Consider it a business dinner. We can discuss the plans for the pharmaceutical company. Besides, I already have a romantic interest in someone else. I'm sure you know who I am talking about."

"Ms. von Reimann. But would she agree to…" Juliet hesitated, then nodded. "If you think it's best to discuss the plans over dinner, I understand. And yes, I'm aware of your relationship with Ms. von Reimann."

"I'll give her a call, explain the situation, and then I will make a dinner reservation."

"That sounds good, Mr. Reyes," Juliet agreed, feeling more comfortable with the idea now that it was framed as a business meeting.

"Excellent!" Michael responded, his mood visibly lifted. "And Juliet, I'll make sure we address the workload issue. Maybe it's time we look into hiring an assistant for you, someone who can help manage these projects."

Juliet smiled, genuinely relieved. "That would be helpful, Mr. Reyes. Thank you for understanding."

"No problem, Juliet. You're a valuable part of this team, and I don't want to burn you out. We have big plans ahead, and I need you at your best to achieve them," Michael concluded with a sincere tone.

Juliet nodded, appreciating the acknowledgment. "I'll get started on the preparations for the pharmaceutical company then, and I look forward to discussing everything in more detail at dinner."

"Perfect," Michael said, as he started to gather his things for the next meeting. "We'll tackle this new venture head-on and pave the way for groundbreaking advancements in medical technology."

As Juliet left the office, Michael called Bridget. Five seconds later, she picked up.

"Yes?"

"Bridget, Ms. Schmidt and I are having a business meeting, work-related stuff. It will be on the BGC High Street. The reason why I'm telling you this is to inform you that this is just a formal business meeting, nothing else. You are my girl, and will always be."

"Hmm…okay," Bridget agreed as if without hesitation. "Just tell me if you are done. I am busy doing my own thing here."

"Is that so? Don't worry, we will have our own romantic dinner next week. Oh, I want you to come in two days because I have something important to discuss."

"Understood, goodbye, Michael," Bridget hung up the phone with a smooch.