NOVEL NEXT
46 Fine Dining Part 2
Michael checked the menu and the moment his eyes saw the prices on each dish, he was stunned to speak. 4,600 pesos for a steak and 12,000 pesos for a tomahawk steak. This price is too steep for someone like him prior to getting the technological system. Of course, he could afford this food but it's something he won't get back to every day without thinking twice about the cost. He mentally calculated how many meals he could get at a regular diner for the price of one steak here. Shaking his head slightly, Michael put the menu down, deciding not to let the prices spoil his appetite or the evening.
Bridget seemed to notice his reaction and smiled, "Don't worry about the prices, Michael. Tonight is on me. Order whatever you like."
Appreciating the gesture, Michael opted for something more moderately priced, not wanting to take advantage of Bridget's offer. But the 4,000 pesos steak is the only meal they have with a moderate price, the rest are above that price.
"Okay, I'll have the porterhouse," Michael said and added. "And an orange juice." The waiter acknowledged his order and then shifted his gaze to Bridget. "I'll have the sirloin steak and a watermelon juice," Bridget ordered.
The waiter noted down their orders and left them to continue their conversation. Michael found himself easing into the discussion. "Bridget…you know I have been wary of the investors, on how they leech on them instead of fostering and helping them grow. But I must say, I want to commit to this agreement. You see, it would have been unfair if you were giving me this opportunity, the opportunity to short the crypto market and earn half of the profit without me spending any of my personal money. And you seem to be the person that I can trust on this venture, so I'll consider your offer. I'm going to start registering my business as soon as my solar panel is cleared and then patent those solar panels."
Bridget's face lit up at Michael's declaration, a look of both satisfaction and anticipation crossing her features. "I'm glad to hear that, Michael. Believe me when I say that my intentions are to nurture and support, not to leech. The world of business can be treacherous, but with the right allies, you can navigate it successfully. I see immense potential in what you're doing, and I want to be part of it."
"I appreciate your faith in me and my project," he said. "I won't take your support lightly. My main goal has always been to make this technology accessible and to make a significant impact on renewable energy. With your help, I believe we can make that happen."
Bridget smiled. "Now let's go back to the solar panel. It's going to be evaluated by a third party, correct? And when I said I'll have my engineers come over here in the Philippines to check your solar panel, well I didn't mean it in a way that they'll be the one conducting the test, they'll be watching from a distance while the real evaluator conducts the assessment. We need to ensure that the evaluation is impartial and follows international standards for solar panel efficiency testing. Because I think, those from Solar Dynamics Corporation can pay huge chunks of money to fake the result and save their dignity." "I have spoken to an engineer working in the Solar Dynamics Corporation who faked the result, and he said he felt bad about it as he was forced to do that. So it means my technology is legit. But still, we have to worry about the shady dealings the Solar Dynamics Corporation might engage in to undermine the evaluation."
"Exactly," Bridget nodded, her expression turning serious. "We can't underestimate the lengths they might go to protect their interests. I see it all the time in business." Michael chuckled. "Business is not that simple huh? There's always that and that to consider, especially when you're stepping into an industry with established giants."
"Oh you haven't seen the worst yet," Bridget said in a way as if warning him. Ten minutes later, the waiter arrived with their food and placed the meticulously prepared dishes in front of them. The aroma of the grilled porterhouse and sirloin steak filled the air, and Michael couldn't help but admire the presentation. Despite his initial shock at the prices, he had to admit the quality seemed to justify the cost, at least based on appearance.
Grabbing a fork and a knife, Michael cut into his porterhouse steak. The knife glided through the meat with ease. He carved out a piece and brought it to his mouth, closing his eyes as he savored the first bite. The steak was cooked to perfection, with a slight char on the outside and a juicy, pink center that melted in his mouth. The flavors were rich and complex, a blend of the natural taste of the beef enhanced by a subtle seasoning that didn't overpower the meat's quality.
The juiciness of the steak combined with its tenderness offered a culinary experience Michael had never encountered before. It was an eye-opening moment, realizing how a high-quality cut of meat, cooked by expert hands, could elevate a simple dish into something extraordinary. The orange juice he had ordered provided a refreshing contrast to the savoriness of the steak, cleansing his palate between bites.
As he continued to eat, Michael found himself appreciating the meal more with each bite. He glanced at Bridget, who seemed equally pleased with her choice. This is an experience he would never have had if he hadn't got the technological system. So all hail to the technological system.
After finishing his meal, he thought about bringing his mom into this fancy restaurant. She hasn't been into any fancy restaurants aside from fast food. He could imagine her face right now when she sees the place and tastes the food. The thought made Michael smile; it was a small gesture, but one he knew would mean a lot to her. As dinner came to an end, Michael spoke. "Thank you for this opportunity once again, Bridget. I enjoyed the food." "No problem, Michael. So—we wait until the 26th right? Right after Christmas."
"Indeed, it's going to be a huge day for me."