Creating an Industrial Empire in 19th Century Parallel World

The industrialist duo took their time enjoying the party that they hosted. Dancing with their beautiful partner and having a drink with esteemed guests. The cheery and lively atmosphere in the ballroom is seemingly not ending anytime soon. But eventually, it will.

Two hours later, the party is starting to die down as guests from all across the United States of Avalonia are starting to bid farewell to the industrialist duo, thanking them for their hospitality, and making their way to their own carriage waiting outside of the main office building.

The industrialist duo also thanked them for attending their party as they see them out of the ballroom.

The ballroom filled with many people earlier was now mostly empty, with only a handful of people left behind cleaning up the remaining glasses and decorations. The industrialist duo decided to retire to their private office to discuss the success of the party and their plans for the future.

"Not only have we successfully demonstrated the possibility of electric locomotives for mass transportation but secured a deal from our electric and arm manufacturing enterprise," Jonathan said.

"So I have heard," Poul said, washing his hands with alcohol. The strong scent of the alcohol filled the room, and Jonathan wrinkled his nose.

Poul noticed his expression and chuckled. "Don't worry, my friend. It's just a precautionary measure. We can't be too careful in these uncertain times."

Jonathan nodded, understanding the need for caution. "So, what are our next steps?"

Poul leaned back in his chair, steepling his fingers in front of him. "Well, we have a contract with the government for electric locomotives and arms manufacturing. But we need to expand our operations if we want to continue growing our business. But before that, what did Sherman tell you earlier?"

Jonathan rubbed his chin, remembering the conversation he had with Sherman. "He wants us to sign an exclusive contract where we supply the United States Army with our latest and advanced rifles. Also, they might be looking into interfering in our business as they see us exporting rifles to Europe as a threat to national security."

Poul's expression turned serious. "Interfering in our business? That's a serious matter. We cannot afford to lose our market in Europe, and we certainly cannot afford to have the US Army as our enemy."

Jonathan nodded in agreement. "Exactly. But at the same time, we cannot afford to turn down such a lucrative deal with the Army. It could be a huge boost to our company. We are talking about millions here."

"Really?" Poul widened his eyes. "Well, perhaps I might overthink such things. Let the United States have our latest prototype while we supply Europe with AN-M1 rifles."

"We'll discuss it with Sherman tomorrow," Jonathan said and continued. "As for our electric enterprise, Washington is looking interested in our alternating current system."

Poul raised an eyebrow. "Interesting. What are they proposing?"

Jonathan leaned forward, excitement in his voice. "They want to install our alternating current system in the capital city, and if it proves successful, there is a possibility that the President may refer it to other states, allowing us to expand our operations across the country."

"It is really a big deal huh?" Poul mused. "They are going to see us tomorrow right? I'll have Amelia work on some documents. But since we just had a celebration earlier, I don't think she is at capacity to do anything tonight. We can have her start on it first thing in the morning."

Jonathan nodded in agreement. "Yes, that would be best. We don't want to overwhelm her with work after such a festive event."

Poul stood up from his chair and stretched his arms. "Well, it's getting late. I think it's time for us to call it a night."

Jonathan nodded and stood up as well. "Agreed. I told Caroline that I'll be in the room in five minutes but I'm already a minute late."

Poul chuckled. "You better hurry then. Don't want to keep her waiting."

Jonathan smiled and made his way to the door. "Good night, my friend. See you tomorrow."

"Good night, Jonathan," Poul replied as he turned off the lights and closed the door behind him.

As Jonathan heads towards his bedroom, Poul heads straight to the guest room, where Sara was staying.

He opened the door and looked inside the room, there he froze upon seeing Sara in the middle of changing.

Poul whistled at the sight of her flawless body. Embarrassed, Sara quickly grabbed a nearby robe to cover herself.

"Poul! You should have knocked first," she scolded, trying to hide her blush.

Poul couldn't help but chuckle at her reaction. "My apologies, Sara. I didn't mean to startle you. I just wanted to check if you needed anything before retiring for the night."

Sara took a deep breath, trying to calm herself down. "No, thank you. I'm all set for the night," she replied, adjusting the robe.

Poul nodded, still grinning. "Alright then. Do you want me to sleep with you? Though unofficially most people think that we are not a couple but that's not a reason for me to fulfill my obligation as your boyfriend."

Sara let out a small laugh. "Well Poul, if for a moment I really wanted to be alone for a while."

Poul's brows creased. "Why? What's the matter? Is something troubling you?"

He entered her bedroom and walked towards her. "Sara, we can talk about it today if you'd like. I'm here for you, always." He put a comforting hand on her shoulder.

"It's just that if my decision is right, Poul," Sara confessed. "You know, I feel bad for my family back in London. They are grieving their daughter whom they thought dead. I may not have the best relationship with my father in this world but he is still my father and I know he must be in pain. And my mother, I can't even imagine what she must be going through. It feels wrong to not let them know that I'm alive."

Poul listened to her with a sad expression, feeling guilty for forcing Sara to make such a decision. "I was selfish and I admit, I was a douchebag for making you do things that you might hate. But it's done, returning to a place where everyone thinks you are dead won't be a good idea. Now looking back, you say that you are ready to take the decision of leaving everything behind feels like you are making me feel better."

The atmosphere in the room turned awkward, suffocating the two from the weight of the conversation. Sara looked down at her feet, unsure of how to respond.

Poul sighed heavily, breaking the silence. "I understand your dilemma, Sara. And I'm sorry for putting you in this position. Before our chat becomes too uncomfortable for the both of us to continue, I will leave."

As Poul began to turn to his heel, he felt a tugging force in his sleeves.

"Don't go," Sara whispered. "I was wrong, I don't think I want to be alone…so you can sleep beside me."

Poul turned back towards Sara with a small smile, relieved that she wanted him to stay. "Are you sure?" he asked.

Sara nodded, her eyes meeting his. "Yes, I'm sure. I don't want to be alone tonight."

Poul nodded, then moved over to the bed and sat down, taking off his shoes. He watched as Sara climbed into bed, then he lay down beside her. They lay there in silence until he decided to wrap his arm over her shoulder, pulling her closer to him.

Sara rested her head on his chest, feeling the warmth of his body and the gentle rhythm of his breathing. Poul stroked her hair softly, trying to soothe her worries.

After a while, Sara spoke up. "Do you think I'm doing the right thing, Poul?

Poul hesitated for a moment, thinking about his own conflicted feelings about the situation. But no words came out of his mouth as he didn't know how to answer her.

Sara sighed and closed her eyes. "Goodnight, Poul."

Poul kissed Sara on the forehead. "Goodnight."