Creating an Industrial Empire in 19th Century Parallel World

The meeting between Poul Nielsen and Morgan concluded in the agreement of Morgan investing in the oil company they'd want to establish.

"Oh, Mr. Morgan. I wonder how this will affect your relationship with Mr. Rockefeller knows the fact that you also invested in his oil company?" Poul asked.

"Well, it is indeed true that I invested millions of dollars into Rockefeller's oil business and he might get disappointed in me but I couldn't care about his feelings. You see, I'm also a businessman, a popular saying in the business world is quote 'Don't put all your eggs in a basket, and I believe that investing in multiple oil companies would diversify my portfolio and increase my potential for profit," Morgan replied with a smirk.

Poul chuckled at Morgan's response. "You are a shrewd businessman indeed, Mr. Morgan. I admire your strategy."

Morgan leaned back in his chair, a smug expression on his face. "Well, I didn't become one of the wealthiest men in the world by being foolish, Mr. Nielsen. Now, let's get down to business. I will invest in your oil company on the condition that I have a say in the management and decision-making process. I want to ensure that my investment is being used wisely and that the company is being run efficiently."

Poul nodded in agreement. "Of course, Mr. Morgan. We would be honored to have you as a partner in our venture. Your expertise and experience in the business world will be invaluable to our success."

"Excellent," Morgan replied, extending his hand for Poul to shake. "I look forward to working with you, Mr. Nielsen."

With the deal sealed, the two men discussed the details of the investment, including the amount of capital Morgan would provide and the percentage of ownership he would have in the company. As they finalized the agreement, Morgan couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction. He knew that by investing in this new oil company, he was expanding his reach and securing his place as one of the most powerful businessmen in Avalonia, or even in the world.

For him, the companies that rival one another are just a tool that generates profits, and he was always on the lookout for the next big opportunity. The industrialist duo, who have been dominating the new industry has been not a disappointment for him so far, and he believed that it'll be the same in the next few decades.

Morgan stood up and beckoned his daughter who was sitting across from him and silently staring at Poul.

"Come on, Fiona, my business here is done."

"Eh? We are going to leave already?" Fiona stood up, a hint of disappointment on her face. She had been hoping to learn more about Poul and his stories about how they came to be today. But this is an agreement that she agreed between her and his father so that she can join this visit.

"Oh my, you don't have to leave so early, Mr. Morgan. You can explore the company town, it has changed a lot," Poul said.

"That won't be necessary, Poul," Morgan said. "I have other business to attend to."

"Is that so? That's a shame then. Have a safe journey back to New York then, and please do say hi to Jonathan for me."

Morgan nodded and smiled, "I will, Poul. Thank you for the hospitality."

As Morgan was about to step out of the conference room, Fiona spoke up.

"Father, can I speak with Mr. Nielsen for five minutes?"

Morgan turned around to face his daughter, his eyebrows raised in surprise. He pondered for a moment before replying.

"Well, there's no harm in speaking with the man that saved your life six years ago, so you have my permission. You have five minutes," he said before leaving the two alone in the conference room.

"Thank you, father," Fiona walked towards Poul with a smile. "Mr. Nielsen, I apologize for my father's abruptness. He can be a bit stern sometimes."

Poul chuckled. "No need to apologize, Fiona. Your father is a busy man and his time is valuable."

"Still, I'm sorry if he seemed dismissive of your offer to show us around the town. I would love to see what's changed since I last visited."

Poul nodded. "I understand. But given the circumstances, I'm afraid I can't show you around. Perhaps next time."

"Well, that would be a problem as my father is quite strict when it comes to my safety," Fiona said with a hint of annoyance. "He worries too much."

Poul nodded understandingly. "I can imagine. You are his only daughter after all. And he almost lost you in that train accident."

"Yeah," Fiona nodded somberly. "It was a godsend that you were there at that time. You have my eternal gratitude for saving my life."

Poul smiled warmly at her. "It was nothing, really. Just helping out those who are in need."

"Is there any way that I can thank you properly? Of course, it would be hard since you are already an established businessman here in our country and you probably have a lot of money by now…"

Poul chuckled. "Well, your words are enough Lady Fiona. I don't really need anything else at this point."

Fiona smiled gratefully. "Thank you, Mr. Nielsen. But if there's ever anything I can do to repay you, please don't hesitate to ask."

"I will keep that in mind," Poul said, and it seemed like he wanted to end the conversation.

Fiona couldn't just let it end like that. She wanted to learn more about him and she was not getting out of the conversation. So she asked directly.

"Uhm. Mr. Nielsen, this question might sound too personal but can I ask it anyway?"

Poul tilted his head to the side and wondered what it could be. "What is it?"

"Do you already have a-a—girlfriend?"

Poul was taken aback by the question. He wasn't expecting that from Fiona, and he didn't know how to respond. He shifted in his seat and cleared his throat.

"Uh, technically speaking, I don't have one but there is already a woman who captured my heart."

Hearing that, Fiona felt something stir in her chest. She wasn't sure why, but she suddenly felt a twinge of jealousy.

"Really?" she asked, trying to hide her feelings. "Who is she?"

"I'm afraid I can't tell you that," Poul said.

"Is that so…" Fiona uttered, her voice barely above a whisper.

Seconds later, Fiona stood up from her seat. "I have taken too much of your time. Mr. Nielsen, I will leave now."

Poul noticed the sudden change in Fiona's demeanor and felt a twinge of guilt. He didn't want to make her feel uncomfortable, but he couldn't reveal the identity of the woman he loved. It was too personal and he didn't want to risk it.

"Please don't feel like you have to leave, Lady Fiona. It was a pleasure talking with you," Poul said, trying to ease the tension in the room.

Fiona forced a smile. "Thank you for your time, Mr. Nielsen. I hope we can talk again soon."