Building a Conglomerate in Another World

Matthew Hesh sat in his office, the morning sunlight filtering through the large windows. The air was cool, but the weight of recent news warmed his thoughts. A copy of the treaty with Gran Colombia lay on his desk. He had read it multiple times, the details etched into his mind. The independence of Panama was a key win, but the true prize lay elsewhere—territorial acquisitions in what was once the northern part of Gran Colombia.

Matthew leaned back in his chair, deep in thought. This region, rich in untapped resources, included vast oil reserves. In his previous life, he had read about Venezuela being one of the largest producers of oil in the world. Now, that same opportunity was before him in this alternate world. With Amerathia controlling the region, there was no competition for these resources.

Amber entered the room, carrying a tray with a fresh cup of coffee. She set it down in front of him, her eyes curious. "You’ve been awfully focused on that document," she said, sitting across from him. "I take it the treaty is exactly what you wanted?"

Matthew nodded slowly. "Better than I expected. Amerathia didn’t just secure Panama—they took control of the northern provinces. That territory is rich in oil, Amber. In the coming decades, oil will be as valuable as gold. Machines, vehicles, aircraft, factories… all of them will depend on it."

Amber raised an eyebrow. "You sound like you’ve already made plans for it."

"I have," Matthew replied, his tone serious. "I can’t afford to let this opportunity slip through my fingers. If I control that region, I control the future of energy in this country. Amerathia will dominate the industrial age, and I intend to be at the forefront of that."

Amber crossed her arms. "And how exactly do you plan to do that? The government isn’t going to hand over a strategic territory just because you ask nicely."

Matthew smirked. "They won’t. But they might if I offer them something they can’t refuse."

He stood, grabbing the treaty and placing it inside a leather briefcase. "I need to meet with President Clay. I’m going to propose that I be appointed as the governor of the newly acquired territory. In return, I’ll offer full payment for the land and a commitment to develop its infrastructure. Roads, railways, ports—it’ll become a hub of economic activity."

Amber’s eyes widened slightly. "You’re serious about this, aren’t you?"

"Dead serious," Matthew said. "The world is changing fast, and I won’t sit on the sidelines watching someone else capitalize on it."

Later that afternoon, Matthew arrived at the White House. He was quickly ushered into the Oval Office, where President Theodore Clay waited with Secretary of State Johnson Wright and General Jonathan Graves. The atmosphere was cordial but businesslike. Clay gestured for Matthew to take a seat.

"Matthew, I assume you’re here regarding the new territories," Clay said, leaning forward on his desk. "What’s on your mind?" @@novelbin@@

Matthew placed the briefcase on the floor beside him and met the President’s gaze. "Mr. President, I want to be direct. I’m here to discuss the northern provinces—the ones we acquired from Gran Colombia."

Clay nodded slowly. "Go on."

"Those provinces have immense economic potential," Matthew continued. "Oil reserves, fertile land, access to key trade routes. I believe that if properly developed, they could become the backbone of Amerathia’s industrial expansion. However, managing and developing those resources will require expertise, investment, and long-term vision. That’s where I come in."

Wright folded his arms. "You’re suggesting what, exactly?"

"I’m proposing that I be appointed as the governor of the region," Matthew said plainly. "In exchange, I’m willing to pay for the land outright and commit to a comprehensive development plan. My company, Hesh Industries, will handle infrastructure projects, resource extraction, and economic revitalization."

Graves frowned. "You’re talking about privatizing a strategic region. That’s a lot of power to put in the hands of one man."

Matthew leaned forward. "I understand your concern, General, but let’s be realistic. The government is stretched thin from the war. It’ll take years to stabilize those territories, let alone develop them. I have the resources and expertise to do it faster and more efficiently. In return, Amerathia will benefit from increased tax revenue, trade, and industrial growth."

Clay tapped his fingers on the desk thoughtfully. "It’s a bold proposal, Matthew. But there’s a risk of political backlash. Some might say we’re giving too much control to a private entity."

Matthew nodded. "I’m not asking for unchecked authority. There will be oversight, and I’ll work closely with the federal government. Think of it as a partnership. Besides, we need to act quickly. Other nations are watching. If we hesitate, they’ll find ways to undermine our control over the region."

Wright exchanged a glance with Clay. "He’s not wrong. The longer we delay, the more likely we’ll face internal unrest or external pressure."

Clay sighed, rubbing his temples. "Alright, Matthew. I’m willing to consider your offer. But I want concrete terms. How much are you willing to pay, and what are your immediate priorities for the region?"

Matthew pulled out a set of documents from his briefcase. "I’ve outlined a payment plan here. As for priorities, we’ll start with infrastructure—roads, railways, and a deep-water port near the Caribbean coast. Next, we’ll establish energy production and extraction facilities. The oil fields will be operational within two years, providing both domestic energy and export revenue." Continue reading on NovelBin.Côm

Clay reviewed the documents, his expression neutral but focused. After a long pause, he nodded. "This… could work. Johnson, what’s your take?"

Wright tapped his fingers on the table. "It’s risky, but it’s also an opportunity we can’t ignore. If Matthew delivers on his promises, it’ll solidify our dominance in the region."

"General?" Clay turned to Graves.

Graves sighed. "As long as there’s strong oversight, I’m on board. But I want a clear commitment to security measures. That region is still unstable."

Matthew nodded. "Agreed. I’ll fund and train a regional security force to maintain order and protect key assets."

Clay leaned back in his chair. "Alright, Matthew. We have a deal. You’ll be appointed as the governor of the northern provinces. But remember—this is a high-stakes operation. We’re trusting you to deliver."

Matthew stood and extended his hand. "I won’t let you down, Mr. President."

Clay shook his hand firmly. "See that you don’t. Amerathia’s future depends on it."