146-150

*Chapter 146: The Open Strategy*

Los Angeles, Paladin Media Group.

As the company continued to grow in size, it had to accommodate various divisions: talent agency, record label, film production, and television production companies all under one roof. Initially, Wendy had rented an entire 11-story office building facing the Beverly Hills and Hollywood sign, but it was starting to feel cramped.

To address this, Milo decided to lease the adjacent building as well. For now, the company’s current space was sufficient, though if the TV station’s headquarters also relocated, they might need even more room.

On May 12th, Milo had just returned from San Francisco to Los Angeles and was now in a large conference room on the 10th floor of the headquarters, attending a meeting. Billionaire and TBS President Ted Turner was leading the meeting.

“...TBS’s weakness lies in entertainment, while our strength is in news reporting!” Turner said. “So, we need to make some changes to boost our viewership, like…”

TBS had successfully come under Milo’s control. As Shabotai had foreseen, Warner Bros. eventually agreed to sell Milo the Turner Broadcasting System shares they held. However, they didn’t sell everything—just 10%—enabling Milo to achieve a controlling 51% stake while Warner kept 15%.

The price for the 10% was steep—$1 billion—and it came with a two-film deal between Warner and Paladin Films. Warner was fully aware that Milo would have to buy those shares, as they meant the difference between controlling the company or not. Though it was frustrating for Milo, he agreed. But how long did Warner think they could enjoy this? Milo had a reputation for swift payback.

Sitting at the head of the table, Milo watched Turner as he addressed the TBS and CNN management teams. Though he stayed quiet, his mind was elsewhere.

Now that Turner Broadcasting was secured, Milo had two new targets for Shabotai: Marvel Comics and HBO.

Marvel Comics needed no explanation. As CG technology advanced in the 21st century, Marvel’s superheroes dominated screens and generated enormous profits. Recently, Marvel even filed for bankruptcy, making it an ideal time to acquire them. Warner had benefited significantly from its acquisition of DC Comics in the late 1960s, thanks to Superman and Batman. So why wait and let someone else grab Marvel?

As for HBO, it was different from other networks. It was a subscription-based cable network, the largest in the U.S., and it relied on quality original series. It was famous for well-produced shows like Band of Brothers. The time to acquire HBO was now.

But acquiring HBO would mean facing off against Warner again, as Warner was already in talks with HBO’s shareholders. However, Warner was hesitant due to the high price. Milo knew that once he joined the bidding, Warner would speed up its efforts, as losing HBO after already relinquishing Turner Broadcasting could affect its stock price.

If the HBO deal proved too costly, Milo would be open to alternative cable channels like AMC or A&E to build his empire.

Returning to the meeting, Milo reached for the folder next to his schedule, flipping it open. Thanks to Ted Turner’s support, Milo didn’t need to intervene in TBS's integration for now. But long-term, he’d have to be involved, as he was now the real owner of TBS. Turner was merely acting as his proxy.

Milo intended to introduce ideas to frustrate Warner and pressure other shareholders. These ideas would strengthen TBS’s position and increase its ratings.

In the Paladin Media conference room, Milo sat at the head of the table with Ted Turner to his right. Watching the TBS executives as they read their files, Milo spoke: “Simply put, the most appealing aspect of this program is that anyone has a chance to participate and, if successful, win a significant reward.”

Milo had called TBS’s top executives to Los Angeles, laying groundwork to potentially move TBS’s headquarters to Los Angeles or New York—or even Boston, if necessary.

“What are your thoughts, ladies and gentlemen?” Milo asked.

One executive chimed in, supporting the show idea, saying it could attract many viewers. Another executive added that the show would make people feel they could succeed themselves, drawing even more viewers. “The audience will naturally root for a likable contestant,” she said, “and if that contestant wins, it could encourage viewers to participate, creating a snowball effect.”

Seeing the conversation picking up, Milo and Turner exchanged a smile.

A newly appointed head of the variety show department, Punk Jones, raised his hand with a question, which Milo cut off, reminding him that his role was only to provide the concept, copyright, and the basic framework. Jones, realizing he was addressing Paladin’s CEO, quickly retracted his question.

“An excellent show takes more than just a great idea—it requires everyone’s hard work,” Milo continued. “Let’s work together to turn this ‘Millionaire’ idea into a perfect show.”

The idea Milo introduced was a quiz show where contestants answered questions to win a million-dollar prize. After creating American Idol, Milo had immediately registered many future hit show ideas worldwide.

Milo was confident that “Millionaire” could be a hit. He sat back, clapping as the others considered the concept’s potential. Many knew that American Idol had already generated $300 million in revenue for Fox.

Milo then dropped a bombshell, saying, “This incredible game show concept will cost Turner Broadcasting $200 million. I assume no one has any objections?”

The TBS executives, including Ted Turner, were taken aback. Turner hadn’t known about this beforehand, and Milo hadn’t informed him because he didn’t want to risk word leaking.

Milo was using this as a tactic to pressure Warner and the other shareholders, intending to consistently introduce high-quality shows and sell them to Turner Broadcasting at steep prices. Since Turner Broadcasting didn’t have much cash on hand, they’d need all shareholders to invest.

If shareholders wanted to maintain their stakes, they’d have to put in more money, or else their shares would gradually diminish. Though the value of their shares would increase, they’d have little control over Milo’s approach. By holding 51%, Milo could reinvest any profits into growth, essentially forcing Turner Broadcasting into perpetual reinvestment mode, with no dividends for shareholders.

This was Milo’s open strategy—a war over control and influence, forcing shareholders to either match his creative output with their own capital or see their control slip away. They could object to Turner Broadcasting buying Milo’s concepts, but his majority share and the popularity of his programs would make it hard to justify such a stance.

In this battle, Milo was confident he wouldn’t fail.

Chapter 147: The Sweetheart Training Plan

"I have to admit, Milo, your idea is brilliant, fully exploiting human nature's weaknesses."

After the meeting ended, Ted Turner walked out of the conference room alongside Milo and said this with a meaningful tone.

"Not fully, just a little," Milo shrugged nonchalantly, pretending not to catch the underlying implication. "Everyone loves a free lunch, don’t they? Especially ordinary people. As long as they see the hope of winning a prize, they'll flock to it. It’s the same principle as a lottery—just more intense, exciting, and entertaining."

"No matter how you slice it, it's a brilliant concept. Simple, sure, but no one else thought of it before you. You truly are a genius, Milo," Ted said, patting his shoulder.

Whether in show ideas or business strategy, Ted Turner thought to himself.

"I'll support you," Ted added suddenly.

Ted didn’t care if this upset other shareholders.

What mattered to him was Milo’s potential.

If Milo's show idea could achieve the same success as American Idol—

Or even half of that—

It would bring massive viewership and advertising revenue to Turner Broadcasting’s networks.

If Milo could keep delivering such hits, Turner Broadcasting might have a chance to rival the Big Four networks.

For the founder of Turner Broadcasting, this was the ultimate goal.

Ted didn’t even own a single penny of Turner Broadcasting shares anymore.

The shareholders might suffer losses, but that was none of his concern.

However, if the company could grow stronger, not only would it align with his vision, but as the founder and manager, Milo would certainly owe him some rewards.

Dividends aside, at the very least, a high salary was guaranteed.

Of course, Ted Turner knew there was a prerequisite for this.

He had to support Milo.

And Milo would likely need his support to stand firm against the other shareholders.

Milo clearly understood this, smiling as he returned the shoulder pat.

"Thank you, Ted."

"I believe that with our collaboration, Turner Broadcasting can climb to the top ranks of American television networks."

"Absolutely!" Ted Turner replied, now confident to the point of regret for selling all his shares.

But regrets were pointless—Ted Turner was a pragmatic man.

He’d invested the proceeds from the sale into the stock market.

In just a few days, he had already made tens of millions of dollars.

The booming stock market was the best place to make money in America right now.

Thinking about this, Ted said, "I think we need more—more quality content."

"Be it variety shows or dramas, Turner Broadcasting has so many channels. We can't rely solely on news and this one variety show of yours."

Milo chuckled, thinking how perceptive this man was.

"Don't be so greedy, Ted. When the time comes, I'll bring out more," Milo replied, understanding Ted was trying to help him pressure other shareholders.

But Milo knew the importance of pacing.

He laughed and shook his head. "Let’s focus on producing Who Wants to Be a Millionaire first. Once it establishes a reputation, we can discuss the rest."

Once the value of Who Wants to Be a Millionaire was evident, Milo could continue his strategy.

Otherwise, other shareholders would have grounds to object.

After all, American Idol was one thing; Millionaire was another.

Whether Millionaire would succeed was still uncertain in the eyes of the other shareholders.

"Alright, let’s move on from variety shows for now," Milo said, glancing at the empty corridor. "Do you remember the plan we discussed earlier?"

"Of course," Ted Turner smiled slightly. "Do you have any ideas for a talk show? Something with the creativity of American Idol or Millionaire?"

"Cut it out, Ted. I’m being serious here," Milo rolled his eyes.

Talk shows were different from other variety shows. The formats and ideas for talk shows had been perfected long ago.

There wasn’t much room for originality or copyright protection.

A successful talk show relied heavily on the host’s talent.

The hosts currently under contract with TBS could handle a show like Millionaire or a generic talk show just fine.

But making a talk show captivating? That was much more challenging.

"Later, I’ll give you a list," Milo said after some thought. "You can try reaching out to these hosts to see if we can recruit them. Interview them while you're at it."

Ted shrugged and smiled. "OK, no problem. Just like I trust your talent, I trust your judgment."

The two didn’t discuss dramas after that.

Ted Turner knew Milo's production company was already working on a drama.

Ted understood Milo would wait until Millionaire succeeded before discussing dramas.

That would allow Milo to maximize his leverage.

By noon, Milo’s convoy arrived at a villa in the Los Angeles suburbs.

A little while later:

“Goodbye, Mom!” Britney Spears shouted, waving enthusiastically before getting into Milo's car.

She glanced shyly at Milo before sitting quietly beside him, saying nothing.

Milo smiled faintly, waved to Lynne Spears through the car window, and instructed David to drive off.

After the convoy disappeared, Lynne’s husband, Jamie Spears, emerged from the doorway.

With him was Britney’s younger sister, Jamie Lynn Spears, a lively and adorable little girl.

At just five years old, her future teenage scandals were far off.

“Hmm, how many times has it been?” Jamie Spears asked gleefully, watching the departing cars. “The fourth or fifth?”

Compared to her husband’s cheer, Lynne Spears looked concerned. “Jamie, Britney isn’t even fifteen yet…”

“What’s there to worry about? Isn’t this why we came to Los Angeles?” Jamie Spears replied dismissively.

---

Chapter 148: Forbes Ranking  

 **May 15, 1996**   

On this day, Milo Blackburn once again dominated U.S. media headlines.  

 This time, the frenzy was even wilder than before, spreading rapidly across global media and catapulting his fame to unprecedented levels.  

 European, Asian, and Oceanic media outlets prominently featured Milo Blackburn’s name in their mainstream platforms.  

 The reason? The release of *Forbes Magazine's* meticulously curated "11th Annual Global Billionaires List" in the second week of May 1996.  

 The list highlighted 423 ultra-wealthy individuals worldwide, collectively owning a staggering $1.0499 trillion in assets.   

On average, each billionaire held approximately $2.481 bilion in wealth.  

Milo not only made the list but secured a spot in the **top ten**. Although he wasn’t among the top five, Forbes chose him as the magazine’s cover star. The headline read:  

 **“A True American Dream Miracle!”**  

 The article went on to provide detailed information about Milo’s achievements, accompanied by a visionary assessment:  

 > “Milo Blackburn — a name that has appeared in the media more frequently over the past year than even the President of the United States!”  

 > “The composition of his wealth is an extraordinarily complex topic.”  

 > “We note that he owns over 60 unlisted internet companies, each with immense profit potential. The world has already witnessed the promise of internet ventures. For example, Lycos Inc., which went public on NASDAQ just two weeks ago, has already reached a market capitalization of $3.2 billion.”  

 > “Mr. Blackburn owns a 20% stake in Lycos, making this single company worth over $600 million to him!”  

 > “In total, Blackburn owns 67 such companies, including Yahoo, which boasts a valuation far exceeding that of Lycos.”  

 > “However, as these companies have not yet gone public, they were not factored into Blackburn’s wealth calculation.”  

 > “This results in a significant underestimation of Blackburn’s net worth. Given his age, under 25, and extraordinary business acumen, we are confident that he has the potential to claim the title of the world’s richest person.”  

 > “How soon? Perhaps as early as next year, when his ascent to the throne will astonish the world!”   

---

 That very morning, Milo was enjoying a swim at his Bel-Air hillside mansion in Los Angeles.   

This was not his famed Crest Avenue 9406 property but a new estate he had recently acquired in the luxurious Bel-Air neighborhood.  

 Bel-Air, located in the western part of Los Angeles alongside Beverly Hills and Holmby Hills, forms the city’s "Golden Triangle," known for its exorbitant property prices.  

 The media frenzy surrounding Crest Avenue 9406 had intensified with Milo’s rising fame, compounded by the growing recognition of Catherine Zeta-Jones and others residing there.  

 The once-private property had become a paparazzi magnet, with hordes of photographers camped outside daily.   

Crest Avenue 9406 was originally purchased by Paladin for Milo’s personal use, but as his wealth grew, so did his property acquisitions.  

 In addition to his extensive investments in San Francisco real estate, Milo had begun strategically purchasing luxury homes in Los Angeles.  

 For example, the estate he stayed in last night, located in Bel-Air, offered far more privacy than Crest Avenue 9406.  

 Bel-Air's gated entrances and winding roads concealed homes behind lush foliage, ensuring exclusivity. However, higher up, sprawling mansions on the hills or mountaintops commanded breathtaking views of Los Angeles.  

 Famous residents included Elizabeth Taylor and former President Ronald Reagan with his wife, Nancy.   

Milo’s new Bel-Air estate dwarfed his Crest Avenue home, spanning 15 acres and purchased for nearly $80 million—his most valuable property to date, excluding his Lavender Ranch, a privately fortified retreat.  

 ---

 **Around 10 a.m.**  

 The shimmering waters of the infinity pool reflected the Los Angeles skyline.  

 Julie Delpy, having grabbed a snack from inside, rushed to the pool with the latest issue of *Forbes* in hand.  

 “Hey, Milo! Quit fooling around! Blanchett looks like she’s about to faint. It’s only been two months!”  

 “Come check this out! The latest *Forbes* Billionaires List is out—you’re on it!”  

 In the pool, Milo had Australia actress Cate Blanchett pinned against the infinity edge, overlooking the city. Their movements were vigorous, sending ripples across the water.  

 Blanchett’s shouts were loud, but Julie’s excitement matched her volume.  

 Still, Milo ignored her, maintaining his rhythm with Blanchett, whose voice only grew louder.  

 --- 

Zeta-Jones, lounging on a deck chair nearby to catch her breath, glanced at Julie curiously.  

 “What’s *Forbes* saying?”  

 Despite being one of Milo’s original companions, Zeta-Jones had grown closer to Julie and Blanchett over time, bonding as they shared life with the rising billionaire.  

 ---

 Julie handed the magazine to Zeta-Jones, who scanned the article eagerly.  

 “Our man is about to become the richest person in the world!”  

 “Ah!!”  

 The revelation startled Zeta-Jones so much that she leaped off her chair.  

 The man who had pinned her to the floor just hours earlier, leaving her knees sore, was now poised to claim the title of the **world’s richest person**?  

 --- 

Although the top spot was still held by **Bill Gates**, whose net worth had surged to $45.1 billion thanks to Microsoft’s meteoric rise, Milo’s debut at **#10 with $12 billion** was staggering.  

 For Zeta-Jones and Julie, the figure was almost unfathomable. They looked at Milo with new awe, their excitement palpable as they huddled by his side.  

 ---

 The magazine described Milo’s holdings in **Paladin Media Group**, a conglomerate valued at $8 billion, and highlighted his investments in **Wall Street**, estimated at $3 billion.  

 Combined with his stakes in companies like Lycos, *Forbes* pegged Milo’s net worth at $12 billion.  

 However, Milo chuckled at the analysis. The magazine had both underestimated and overestimated his wealth.  

 > “They missed key holdings like Yahoo and my real estate portfolio, but they didn’t account for my debts from acquisitions like Turner Broadcasting.”  

 In truth, his actual net worth was likely less than $6 billion but poised to skyrocket as his internet ventures matured.   

--- 

By the poolside, Milo sipped his coffee, basking in the adoration of Julie and Zeta-Jones.  

 “Why’d *Forbes* put you on the cover instead of Gates?” Zeta-Jones asked.  

 “Because I’m young, because I’m a symbol of the American Dream, and because I’m a miracle,” Milo replied with a sly smile.  

 But deep down, he knew it wasn’t just that. It was about politics and image.  

 To America, Milo wasn’t just a rising billionaire; he was the **perfect flagbearer of a new era**.   

*Chapter 149: The Widow Sister-in-Law’s Self-Deception*

What is the pinnacle of political correctness in America?

It’s not movements like Black Lives Matter or the emerging prominence of LGBT rights.

It’s a singular concept: the American Dream.

The origins of the American Dream can be traced back to 1620.

On September 16 of that year, the Mayflower set sail from Plymouth, England, carrying 102 passengers to establish colonies in North America.

For those first 102 passengers, the American Dream was reaching the new land described by explorers.

It was about building a new home in the New World—a place free from persecution and full of promise.

That was their dream, the earliest version of the American Dream.

The second iteration of the American Dream can be tied to the Declaration of Independence.

American scholars often view the Declaration of Independence as the foundation of the Dream, with the Statue of Liberty symbolizing its ideals.

In the United States, the dreams of individuals are woven into the broader fabric of the American Dream—a belief that, regardless of one's background or upbringing, hard work can lead to success.

But dreams are, by nature, elusive.

If they were easily achievable, would they still be called dreams?

For decades, to attract talent and wealth from the Old World, American leaders prominently displayed the banner of the American Dream, waving it vigorously toward Europe.

This banner drew wave after wave of immigrants, who helped build the nation.

Over time, through strategic packaging, the American Dream became a beacon for many around the world.

A symbol of freedom and opportunity—a lighthouse guiding people to pursue their dreams.

But the reality?

The American Dream, at its core, is a tool devised by America's ruling elite—a flame designed to attract moths from across the globe.

Only by continuously drawing these "moths" to the New World could it flourish.

Without external contributions, relying solely on local resources, the New World would have developed into something akin to a larger version of Australia.

Particularly during the Cold War, when America vied for global dominance against the Soviet Union, the stakes were even higher.

The American Dream was a necessity—not only to attract global talent but also to compete with the world's most romantic ideologues.

At its core, the American Dream represents individual ambition, where achieving one’s goals justifies any means, even at the expense of others.

On the other hand, the idealists of the world had dreams that were far too pure, too radiant. For a fundamentally selfish species like humanity, these lofty aspirations remained unattainable dreams.

Under pressure from these idealists, America’s leaders, in collaboration with capitalists, polished the American Dream until it gleamed.

At the time, an American worker could support a family on a single income, own a spacious house, have two cars, and even a cat and a dog.

Back then, the average annual income was $9,500. A new house cost $23,000. Gasoline? Just 10 cents a liter.

Of course, this golden era was built on the foundation of a robust industrial base, exploiting global resources, and imposing high taxes on domestic capitalists.

Was this out of capitalist benevolence?

No. They simply didn’t want to be strung up on lampposts.

Faced with the choice between slightly lower profits or literal public execution, they opted for the former.

Eventually, with the Soviet Union losing its ideological edge and finally collapsing, capitalists no longer had to pretend.

The content of the American Dream began to shift, though its essence remained unchanged: achieving one's ambitions in America, no matter the cost.

Today, America still needs that glowing beacon to present to the world.

From the Declaration of Independence to the prosperity of ordinary workers, to Hollywood celebrities, pop icons like Michael Jackson and Madonna, and even billionaires like Warren Buffett and Bill Gates—the symbols of the Dream evolve.

Now, a younger, more talented figure has emerged, embodying the Dream.

He writes novels, directs films, invests with unparalleled acumen, and has a keen eye for finance.

More importantly, he’s the quintessential American archetype: blonde, blue-eyed, tall, handsome, Anglo-Saxon, Protestant—a true WASP with impeccable pedigree.

That man is Milo Blackburn.

This is why, just days ago, so many people were clamoring to contact him.

-

Chapter 150: The Miracle of Wealth - Blackburn

Early in the morning, Milo groggily reached out to touch the woman beside him, but found the spot empty.

He slowly opened his sleepy eyes and checked the time—it was only about 7:30 a.m.

Since he was already awake, he sat up in bed and grabbed his robe to put on.

“Hiss…”

“Ruthless…”

Feeling the sharp pain on his back, Milo grimaced as he walked into the bathroom. Looking in the mirror, he saw a dozen scratch marks left by fingernails across his back.

Honestly, this was a first for Milo.

His other women had their quirks during heated moments.

Some, like Catherine Zeta-Jones, would grip the pillow tightly in silence.

Others, like Nicole Kidman, would scream as if being tortured.

Then there were those like Jennifer Connelly and Cate Blanchett, who would claw the sheets until they tore.

Monica Bellucci and Julie Delpy preferred passionate kissing, leaving his lips swollen or even bleeding.

But last night was unique—someone had gone all out scratching his back.

Shaking his head, Milo finished freshening up and left the bathroom.

Although he couldn’t see anyone in the room, he wasn’t particularly concerned.

After all, last night’s events, though sudden, had unfolded naturally—almost like an unspoken rule in their world.

He stepped out of the bedroom and asked Grey, his female bodyguard, “Where is she?”

Grey wasn’t from the Blackburn family; she was someone Milo had selected after acquiring United Global.

Grey responded, “She’s in the room next door. Came out around six, locked the door, and hasn’t opened the window. She’s probably resting inside.”

Milo nodded, relieved. He casually instructed, “You and Mary will stay with Hailey from now on. You’re her personal bodyguards.”

Grey acknowledged the order. Milo then dressed, left the room, and headed to the dining area for breakfast.

Media Spotlight

At breakfast, Milo’s table was, as expected, covered with an assortment of newspapers and magazines.

Flipping through them nonchalantly, he pulled out The Wall Street Journal. The front-page headline read:

*"The World Has Gone Mad! How 23-Year-Old Milo Blackburn Built a $12 Billion Empire in Just One Year!"*

Descriptions followed:

- “America’s most magical money-making machine…”

- “Wall Street’s sharpest predator.”

- “Two months, $850 million in profits—he foresaw the oil market’s downturn before anyone else!”

Milo frowned slightly as he continued reading.

The article outlined Milo’s rise to fame, following the Forbes Rich List announcement that had sparked a week-long media frenzy.

However, today’s Wall Street Journal added a new twist: it detailed how Paladin Investments had made $850 million in profits by shorting international crude oil futures over nearly three months.

This was true.

Although Milo wasn’t sure how The Wall Street Journal obtained this information, he knew it was difficult to keep such dealings completely under wraps—especially since he didn’t yet own a bank.

Without a bank of his own, it was easy for well-connected individuals to trace his financial moves and guess his investment strategies.

Earlier this year, after concluding his short position on U.S. defense stocks in February, Milo had directed Paladin Investments to focus entirely on shorting crude oil futures.

Over the next three months, his foresight, combined with the expertise of Nelson and his team, resulted in $850 million in profits.

This revelation solidified Milo’s reputation, making him a financial legend seemingly overnight.

While The Wall Street Journal chose to focus on his personal achievements, downplaying the specifics of his financial maneuvers, it contributed to the myth-making around him—a “rags-to-riches” American Dream story that the public adored.

Time for a Bank

As Milo finished the article, he couldn’t help but smirk. If they can trace my profits this easily, I need my own bank.  

Owning a bank would allow Milo to shield his financial activities better. It could also serve as a central hub for his growing enterprises, much like the core banks that supported America’s major financial empires.

The Rockefellers had Chase Manhattan.

The Morgans had two premier banks.

Even regional powers like Texas had their own financial institutions.

Without a banking foundation, empires like DuPont and Cleveland had been swallowed by more powerful entities.

Milo resolved to act quickly. He didn’t need a megabank like Chase or Morgan right away. Starting with a well-licensed regional bank would suffice, connecting his businesses in New York, Los Angeles, and Boston.

With this decision made, Milo gave his assistant, Monica, new instructions:

“Call Megan. Adjust the schedule—I want to interview my new advisor and CFO today.”

Building the Blackburn Foundation

By the afternoon, Milo was at Yahoo’s headquarters, overlooking Silicon Valley’s tech-filled landscape. He envisioned a clearer direction for his capital.

He planned to establish a think tank—a Blackburn Foundation.

Unlike traditional American think tanks, Milo’s would combine elements of U.S. strategic expertise with the centralized decision-making akin to an imperial cabinet.

This think tank would not only provide strategies but also actively execute them when needed.

It would also serve a future purpose: smoothing issues like asset inheritance and marital complications.

Recruitment Interviews

The interviews were held in a coffee shop across from Yahoo—one of several establishments Milo owned nearby. These provided perks for Yahoo employees while doubling as discreet security outposts for Milo.

The first candidate was impressive but overly aggressive in his investment style, which had cost him a role at Chase Manhattan.

Milo nodded as his team summarized the candidate’s strengths and weaknesses:

“Hire him. He’ll be useful for projects requiring ruthless execution.”

The second candidate, a talented gay man named Andre, impressed Milo even more. Despite being upfront about his orientation, Milo saw no issue as long as professionalism was maintained.

The third candidate, Gina Raimondo, was hired sight unseen. Her background and connections made her too promising to pass up.

By day’s end, Milo had secured three new additions to his growing empire, each bringing unique strengths to the table.

As he sipped his coffee, Milo smiled. His vision for the Blackburn Foundation was becoming reality—one piece at a time.