Chapter 31: Chapter 32: Offer
I was also visited by a man from Valve Corporation, a computer game developer. We had a rather lively conversation. He came to me with the goal of buying the game Subway Surfers.
Of course, why else? His offer was around $400 million, which is $100 million less than the amount proposed by Wayne Enterprises. Naturally, I declined.
However, my interlocutor turned out to be more intelligent than I had expected. He proposed investing half the offered amount in exchange for 49% of the company's shares. A very calculated move on his part. If we continue to release popular games, he would benefit. If not, with that many shares, he could eventually gain control of the company and its developments.
Since I had no intention of giving away shares, I gave a firm and decisive "no!" My guest took my refusal calmly, and we parted on good terms, expressing hopes for possible future collaboration.
"In two weeks, the game was downloaded by 28.6 million people. Of these, 21.7 million purchased the license rights. The amount of in-game purchases was $933,000," Ms. Gordon concluded her report.
Heather, Barbara, and I were currently discussing the company's future development plans in my office. Half a month had passed since the game's launch, and many things were starting to settle down.
"The company's operating profit during this time was $11,895,732," added Batgirl.
"So, what do you think?" I asked, looking at the two capable women.
"You had planned to create a division for computer game development after launching the mobile game. However, with our current income, this plan will have to be postponed for at least a year or two," Heather stated bluntly.
Yes, computer game development is on a completely different level. We'll need to find a larger workspace, hire new employees, purchase more equipment, and account for the much higher development costs.
"And as far as I know, you have other plans requiring significant funds," my assistant continued, her words hitting me like darts. Unfortunately, she was right.
Firstly, I had promised to buy a recording studio from Sir Maxwell and Madame Alexandra. Secondly, I intended to look for a publishing house.
After all, I planned to publish my books myself. Moreover, I had recently made significant progress in robotics and mechanical engineering, and I was considering applying my knowledge practically.
I had several ideas I wanted to pursue, but each required money. As a beginner, I was bound to make mistakes that would lead to overspending.
Some projects could be done on a budget, but one idea would require massive funding—at least a billion dollars, maybe even two.
I know that sounds outrageous. But if I missed this precious moment, I'd lose much more in the long run. This is a large-scale project, and I'll need a reliable partner with impressive capital who isn't afraid to spend it.
Unfortunately, I couldn't think of anyone at the moment. Bruce doesn't count. It's okay, though—I'm not ready to implement this idea yet.
Money, money, money! Where could I get it? And in such large amounts? I wasn't familiar with the stock or exchange markets, so investing was out—it's a long-term process, and I needed cash now.
Should I try a casino? With my intuition, I could undoubtedly hit the jackpot. But how much? A million dollars? That wouldn't cover a billion. If I stood out too much in gambling, some mafia group would definitely come after me.
After all, the mafia largely controls that industry.
"Alex, what are you thinking?" Barbara asked, snapping me out of my thoughts.
"Listen, our only option now is to focus on developing the mobile games division."
"I agree with you. Do you have any suggestions, our esteemed director of Alritex Mobile?"
"And for now, the only director. First, a question—are we going to develop a new game?" Barbara asked, looking directly at me.
"Yes, I already have an idea for our next project. We'll start working on it soon."
"In that case, we should hire more employees and organize technical, marketing, client support, financial, and administrative departments. We'll need staff to monitor Subway Surfers and release updates, as well as others to develop new games and applications. Also, I can't oversee everything alone. I need a lead programmer to manage the rest."
"Hire Paul Diaz for that position. He'll handle it well," I suggested.
"We also need a manager and department heads. At minimum, we'll need to hire ten people."
"Okay, start recruiting. I'll review their résumés and decide who to hire."
"You want to do it yourself?" Barbara asked, raising an eyebrow. "You don't trust my judgment?"
"It's not that. I just don't want a rat sneaking into our company or hiring someone who could cause problems down the line."
Most managers can't predict exactly who to hire or avoid, but I'm different. My intuition will tell me who's worthy of joining us and who to reject outright. I refuse to grow a hydra that could destroy us in the future.
However, I kept quiet about another reason. If any characters from the DC or Marvel universes applied for jobs at my company, I wanted to know about it. Missing such an important plot-relevant figure would haunt me forever.
"Alex, are you sure you'll have enough time to sift through thousands of résumés later?"
"I'll dedicate time weekly to this. Find candidates, and as soon as we've hired enough people, we'll start developing the new game."
"Okay, I'll begin immediately," Barbara said before leaving the office.
"How are you planning to solve the money problem?" Heather asked, ignoring my already low spirits.
"I have no idea… but I'll figure it out. Don't worry."
"I won't," Brooks quipped. "However, acquiring that much money quickly is nearly impossible."
"Hey, don't forget what an amazing boss you have! I'll manage—you'll see!"
"Personally, I doubt it. But if a miracle happens, I'm willing to offer a reward."
"What kind?"
"Hmm, how about a kiss?" she teased, running a finger across her lips.
"Done! Consider it solved! I don't know how yet, but I'll definitely figure it out."
"Good luck," she said with a sly smile before leaving. What a devil! Beautiful and smart—a dangerous combination.
I began strategizing my next steps. First, let's count what funds I currently have. After purchasing the apartment, I had just over $10 million left. Recently, I received $31,645,023 in royalties for my four books sold abroad.
It's been a month since their global release, and they remain popular. Readers continue to embrace them warmly.
My name is spreading worldwide—I'm becoming famous even in other countries. Adding the profits from Subway Surfers, after expenses and taxes, there's about $8.5 million remaining.
Combining everything, I have approximately $51 million.
Well, for starters, I'll buy the recording studio.
After all, I still haven't paid for it. Besides, I promised Mrs. Alexandra to work seriously on my album.
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