Building a Business Empire with my Technological System

Chapter 240: The Accusation

"Excuse me?" Michael flinched.

Dr. Patel stepped forward, holding up the notes he had taken. "Mr. Reyes, we've identified several sections of code that are not only similar but identical to our own proprietary algorithms. This goes beyond coincidence. We need an explanation."

Michael squared his shoulders, meeting Dr. Patel's gaze head-on. "As I mentioned earlier, our development process is well-documented, and we have extensive records to prove the originality of our work. If there are similarities, it's purely coincidental. We have worked tirelessly to create this technology."

"There is no way the original source code is similar to ours," Dr. Patel insisted, his tone sharp and accusatory.

Michael took a deep breath, his mind racing to maintain control of the situation. "Dr. Patel, it's impossible for our codes to be identical. My team and I have never had any contact with VirtuReal Innovations. I've never even set foot in America or any facility VirtuReal owns."

Dr. Patel looked skeptical. "You expect us to believe that these similarities are purely coincidental?"

"Yes, that's exactly what I'm saying," Michael replied firmly. "Our development process is isolated and strictly controlled. We've documented every step of our progress. If you wish to review our logs and documentation, you're welcome to do so, but I assure you, our work is original."

At this point, Michael was just trying to defend the dignity and integrity of his company. He knew that backing down or showing any sign of doubt could spell disaster.

Dr. Patel was unwavering. "Mr. Reyes, we have evidence right here in your logs. The sections of code we found are identical to our algorithms. And we have seen enough. We will be taking this matter to court."

Michael felt a chill run down his spine, but he kept his composure. "Dr. Patel, we are more than willing to cooperate with any legal investigation. We will prepare our defense and ensure that our side of the story is heard."

Dr. Patel gave a curt nod. "See that you do, Mr. Reyes. We will be filing our lawsuit promptly. I suggest you prepare your legal team for what's coming."

Michael watched as the VirtuReal team and the independent reviewers gathered their things and left the facility. Once they were out of sight, Michael turned to Juliet.

"Sir…is there something you are not telling me? They are confidently accusing you," Juliet asked concernedly.

Michael sighed heavily, running a hand through his hair. "Juliet, I've told you everything I know. Our work is original. But I can't deny that the situation is serious, and we need to be prepared."

"Sir…can we talk in private?" Juliet asked quietly.

Michael nodded. He led Juliet to his office, closing the door behind them.

Juliet sat down with a concerned expression. "Michael, I know you've been under a lot of stress, but I need to know the truth. Is there any chance that something might have slipped through without your knowledge? Anything that could have been unintentionally replicated?"

Michael leaned against his desk, rubbing his temples. "Juliet, I'm telling you the truth. I have no idea how our code could be identical to theirs. Don't you trust me?"

Juliet took a deep breath. "I trust you, Michael. But we need to be thorough. How about explaining to me the nature of your inventions again? We had to make the employees sign non-disclosure agreements for a reason."

"Instead of discussing this, we should focus on how we are going to get them off our back," Michael said, frustration creeping into his voice. He straightened up and began pacing the room.

Juliet nodded, her expression resolute. "Alright. We need a plan. First, we need to gather all our documentation and records to build a strong defense. We should also prepare our legal team for the upcoming battle."

Michael stopped pacing and faced her. "You're right. Let's call a meeting with the legal team immediately. We need to be prepared for every possible angle they might attack us from."

Juliet quickly contacted the legal department, arranging an urgent meeting. Within an hour, the core team, including the company's top lawyers, gathered in the conference room.

Michael began the meeting, his tone firm and determined. "We're facing a serious accusation from VirtuReal Innovations. They claim that our code is identical to theirs. We need to prove our innocence and protect our company's reputation."

The head of the legal team, Sarah Thompson, who works from a foreign firm, leaned forward with a serious expression. "Is their source code public or protected by any patents that we might have overlooked?"

Michael shook his head. "To the best of my knowledge, their source code is proprietary and protected, just like ours. We haven't had access to their work, and we've developed everything independently."

Sarah nodded thoughtfully. "Alright, then we need to focus on gathering every piece of evidence that supports our development timeline and originality. We'll need detailed documentation, logs, and any other records that show the unique path we took to develop our technology. That shouldn't be too hard for you right?"

"Of course, I can provide it," Michael replied confidently. "We've kept meticulous records throughout the development process. We'll compile everything and make sure it's ready for review."

Sarah nodded. "Good. We'll also need to prepare for the possibility of expert testimony. We should reach out to industry professionals who can attest to the uniqueness of our work."

Juliet suggested, "We should also consider hiring an independent expert to review our code and provide an unbiased opinion. This could strengthen our defense."

Michael agreed with a nod and asked, "Since VirtuReal is based in the United States, how would the jurisdiction work for this case? Will we have to defend ourselves there?"

Sarah considered this for a moment before responding. "It's likely that the lawsuit will be filed in the U.S., given that VirtuReal Innovations is based there. We'll need to be prepared to handle legal proceedings in their jurisdiction."

"How? It's not like we have any legal counterparts or established presence in the U.S.," Michael finished.

"We'll need to collaborate with a reputable U.S.-based law firm that specializes in intellectual property and technology disputes. I can start reaching out to potential partners immediately."

Juliet looked at Michael. "We need to move quickly on this. VirtuReal will waste no time in filing their lawsuit, and we have to be ready."

Michael nodded, his resolve hardening. "Do it. Contact the best firms you can find. We'll spare no expense in defending our work and our reputation."