Chương 58: Winds of Opportunity II

Arc 6 – Wings of Opportunity May 2, 1971 – Sunday A warm spring breeze drifted through the streets of Manhattan as Enzo's crimson Cavallo V12 glided through the city. For one afternoon, there were no discussions about investments, factories, balance sheets, or negotiations. Today belonged to baseball. James rested his arm against the passenger-side window, watching New York slowly pass by.

Families filled the sidewalks, vendors pushed carts along the avenues, and children proudly wore baseball caps as they hurried toward the stadium with their parents. Enzo glanced toward his grandson with a smile.

"You've been carrying that serious expression all week." James chuckled.

"I've been spending too much time around businessmen." Enzo laughed heartily.

"And whose fault is that?" James grinned.

"I'd say yours."

"I suppose you're right." Both laughed together as the imposing silhouette of Empire Metropolitan Arena came into view. Thousands of fans streamed toward the entrances. Street vendors called out to passing crowds. The aroma of roasted peanuts, fresh popcorn, and grilled hot dogs drifted through the spring air. For a few precious hours... The future could wait.

Their seats offered an excellent view of the diamond. The crowd continued filling the grandstands until nearly every seat was occupied. James looked around quietly. Construction workers are still wearing their work boots. Office clerks who had loosened their ties. Young couples. Entire families. Retired veterans. Everyone united by the same game. Enzo leaned comfortably into his seat.

"I used to come here with your father." James turned toward him.

"I remember..." Enzo smiled softly.

"He loved baseball almost as much as boxing." For a brief moment, neither of them spoke. Some memories were too valuable to interrupt. The public-address announcer introduced both teams. The hometown New York Kings took the field to thunderous applause. Their opponents, the Milwaukee Bears, received respectful applause from the crowd before warming up along the baselines. The game itself was everything a baseball fan could hope for. Momentum shifted several times. Excellent pitching. Timely hitting.

Outstanding defensive plays. The stadium erupted after nearly every inning. James found himself smiling more than he had in days. For those few hours, he allowed himself to simply be a boy enjoying a baseball game with his grandfather. Late in the afternoon, after a tense final inning... The New York Kings defeated the Milwaukee Bears 5–4. The stadium exploded with cheers. Fans stood on their as the players shook hands and left the field. Enzo joined the applause enthusiastically.

"Now that," he said with a broad grin, "is how you finish a ballgame." James laughed.

"I'll take this over financial reports any day."

"Enjoy today," Enzo replied while they made their way toward the exit.

"Tomorrow we'll be back to factories, investments... and whatever new opportunity you've discovered." James smiled knowingly.

"Tomorrow will be interesting." Neither of them realized just how important the coming week would become—not only for Vendetta Investments, but for a struggling young airline fighting for the right to fly. 》》 Arc 6 – Wings of Opportunity May 3, 1971 – Monday Monday morning brought Thompson Manufacturing back to its familiar rhythm. Long before eight o'clock, the factory floor in Brooklyn was already alive. The constant hum of industrial sewing machines echoed throughout the building.

Forklifts moved carefully between stacks of canvas, heavy cotton, nylon fabric, and finished Thompson Outdoor Gear awaiting shipment. Workers greeted one another as they began another busy week.

Production had increased steadily every month since the civilian transition. Now, another expansion was about to begin.

Marcus Carter stood in front of the large production board hanging inside the manufacturing office. A piece of chalk rested between his fingers. Below April Production: 9, 000 Units, he slowly wrote the new objective. May Production Target: 10, 000 units He stepped back. One thousand additional products. It looked simple written on a chalkboard. Making it happen was another matter entirely. Peter Collins entered, carrying several production reports.

"You've already increased the target." Marcus nodded.

"We don't have much choice."

"The orders keep coming." Peter looked over the board.

"The assembly lines can probably handle it." Marcus folded his arms.

"Probably isn't good enough."

"If we're going to keep our delivery reputation, every department has to stay synchronized." Peter nodded in agreement.

"I'll gather the supervisors."

Less than thirty minutes later, the department heads assembled inside the production conference room. William Daniels. Helen Brooks. Samuel Ortiz. George Miller. Linda Foster. Peter Collins. Marcus stood before them.

"Ladies and gentlemen... April was our strongest civilian production month yet." Several smiles appeared around the room. Marcus continued.

"But success creates another problem."

"Demand." George Miller laughed.

"I'll take that problem over empty order books." Several others chuckled. Marcus smiled briefly before becoming serious again.

"Our production target for May is ten thousand units." The room immediately became quieter. Helen Brooks adjusted her glasses.

"We can do it."

"But only if quality standards remain exactly where they are." Marcus nodded.

"Quality doesn't change."

"Not by one stitch." William Daniels crossed his arms.

"We'll probably need additional cutters." Samuel Ortiz added,"And several more industrial sewing machines." George looked through his notes.

"I've already contacted two textile suppliers."

"If deliveries stay on schedule, raw materials won't be our problem." Marcus looked around the room.

"Good."

"There's one more subject." Everyone waited.

"The Victory Athletics partnership." Several exchanged curious looks. Marcus continued.

"We'll soon begin producing athletic apparel under a completely separate division." Linda Foster couldn't hide her excitement.

"I've already started sketching variations based on the prototypes." William smiled.

"They're some of the best athletic garments we've ever produced." Marcus nodded proudly.

"They are."

"But that's only the beginning."

Meanwhile... Across Manhattan... Anthony Russo spent another full day away from Thompson Manufacturing. His leather briefcase never left his side. Every stop produced another piece of information. He visited the corporate registry. He met with an aviation attorney. He stopped by several financial institutions. Finally, he spent nearly an hour inside the offices of a business journalist from the New York Herald. By late afternoon... His notebook had become filled with names... Court cases... Financial figures...

Legal timelines... Corporate filings... And newspaper clippings. Anthony quietly closed the notebook.

"This airline has survived far more than most companies ever could." He looked thoughtfully toward the city skyline.

"No wonder James is interested."

May 4, 1971 – Tuesday James arrived at Thompson Manufacturing shortly after school. Frank, the security guard, greeted him with his usual smile.

"Good afternoon, James."

"Good afternoon, Mr. Frank."

"Your grandfather's waiting upstairs." James thanked him before taking the elevator. Moments later... He stepped into Enzo's office. Enzo was already there, reviewing several sales reports. Only a few minutes passed before another knock came at the door. Anthony entered, carrying an unusually heavy leather briefcase. Enzo immediately noticed.

"Judging from that case..."

"You've been busy." Anthony smiled tiredly.

"I've barely stopped walking for two days." He placed the briefcase on the conference table before carefully removing its contents. Corporate filings. Court documents. Financial summaries. Newspaper articles. Handwritten notes. Everything was arranged into neat piles. James watched quietly. Anthony finally looked at both of them.

"I'll admit something." Enzo raised an eyebrow.

"When James first asked me to investigate SkyWest Airways..."

"I thought it was a waste of time." James smiled faintly. If you encounter this story on Amazon, note that it's taken without permission from the author. Report it.

"And now?" Anthony sat down.

"Now I understand why you asked." Enzo leaned forward with interest. Anthony opened the first folder.

"SkyWest Airways was incorporated on March 15, 1967."

"It was founded by two businessmen."

"Roland King."

"And Henry Keller." He slid a document toward Enzo.

"Their vision was surprisingly simple."

"Affordable flights connecting Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio."

"No unnecessary luxury."

"No expensive meals."

"Just reliable transportation ordinary Americans could afford." Enzo slowly nodded.

"Simple ideas are sometimes the strongest." Anthony agreed.

"The problem wasn't the business model."

"It was the competition." He opened another folder.

"The moment SkyWest announced its intentions..."

"Continental Central Airways..."

"Lone Star Air Transport..."

"And National Continental Airways..."

"... filed lawsuits to stop them before they ever transported a single passenger." Enzo frowned.

"They sued a company before it even started flying?" Anthony nodded.

"For years."

"They challenged licenses."

"They appealed rulings."

"They delayed hearings."

"They fought every legal battle they could." James remained silent, allowing Anthony to continue.

"The Texas Supreme Court eventually ruled in SkyWest's favor." Anthony placed another newspaper clipping on the table.

"But the competitors appealed again."

"Late last year..."

"The United States Supreme Court declined to hear the case."

"Legally..."

"SkyWest finally won." Enzo smiled.

"So the worst is behind them." Anthony slowly shook his head.

"I don't think so." He opened another financial report.

"They've already spent over half a million dollars in legal fees."

"More than five hundred thousand dollars..."

"... before earning a single dollar from passengers." The room became quiet. Anthony continued.

"Earlier this year..."

"They raised operating capital by issuing seven-percent convertible promissory notes."

"But even that isn't enough." He pointed toward another document.

"The company intends to raise approximately six million dollars through an initial public offering." Enzo slowly leaned back.

"I see." Anthony turned toward James.

"Which is exactly why I said our chances are almost nonexistent." James carefully picked up one of the reports. He studied every figure. Every handwritten note. Every date. Then he quietly placed it back on the table.

"I agree with you." Anthony blinked.

"You... agree?"

"Completely." Anthony and Enzo exchanged confused glances. James folded his hands calmly.

"Based on everything you've shown us..."

"... our proposal should be rejected." The silence inside the office became almost uncomfortable. Enzo narrowed his eyes.

"Then why make the trip to Texas?" A small smile appeared on James's face.

"Because negotiations aren't only about making deals."

"They're also about building relationships." Anthony stared at him. James continued.

"If they reject us..."

"They'll still remember us."

"And sometimes..." He looked out the office window toward the busy factory below.

"... timing is more valuable than money." Neither Enzo nor Anthony spoke. For the first time... They began wondering whether James had already seen a future that neither of them could yet imagine. End of Chapter 2. 》》 May 5, 1971 – Wednesday The morning edition of the New York Herald arrived at Thompson Manufacturing shortly after eight o'clock. Outside Enzo Lombardi's office, the factory had already come alive. Industrial sewing machines echoed across the production floor.

Forklifts carried pallets of Thompson Outdoor Gear toward the loading docks. Office employees hurried through the marble-floored lobby with folders tucked beneath their arms. Inside the Chairman's office, however, the atmosphere was considerably quieter.

Enzo sat behind his polished walnut desk with a steaming cup of espresso, while Anthony Russo reviewed several documents inside his leather briefcase. Enzo folded the newspaper after reading one of the international headlines.

"Looks like the financial world is having another rough day." Anthony looked up.

"What happened?" Enzo handed him the paper.

"Several European countries suspended foreign exchange trading because of the flood of American dollars entering their markets." Anthony quickly skimmed the article before placing it back on the desk.

"The global economy has become unpredictable." Enzo nodded.

"And uncertainty usually creates opportunities." Anthony smiled.

"That sounds like something James would say." Both men laughed.

Anthony reached into his briefcase and removed a neatly typed document.

"I've finished drafting the telegram." Enzo leaned forward.

"Let's hear it." Anthony adjusted the page before reading aloud. > TO: SKYWEST AIRWAYS ATTENTION: MR. ROLAND KING AND MR. HENRY KELLER Vendetta Investments, a privately held investment company headquartered in Delaware, respectfully requests the opportunity to meet with your executive leadership regarding a possible long-term investment and strategic business partnership.

We have followed your company's remarkable perseverance through recent legal challenges and would welcome the opportunity to exchange ideas in person. This meeting carries no obligation and is intended solely as a discussion between interested parties. Chairman Enzo Lombardi is willing to travel to Dallas at a date convenient to your organization. Respectfully, Anthony Russo Corporate Counsel Vendetta Investments Anthony lowered the page. The office remained silent for several moments. Enzo finally smiled.

"It says exactly what it needs to say."

"Nothing more."

"Nothing less." Anthony nodded.

"James specifically told us not to reveal too much."

"He wants them to become curious." Enzo chuckled.

"That boy understands negotiations far better than most businessmen I've met." Anthony carefully folded the telegram.

"I'll send it immediately." Enzo stood.

"Go ahead."

"If they accept, we'll let James know this afternoon after school."

Nearly an hour later... Anthony entered the Manhattan office of the National Telegraph and Cable Company. A telegraph operator accepted the message.

"It'll reach Dallas shortly, Mr. Russo."

"Thank you." Anthony watched as the operator began transmitting the telegram across the national telegraph network. Only a few short lines of text. Yet those lines might determine whether Vendetta Investments' next great opportunity would begin... or end before it even started. Anthony quietly adjusted his hat before stepping back onto the busy Manhattan sidewalk. Now... All they could do was wait.

Dallas, Texas Inside the modest headquarters of SkyWest Airways, located near Love Field Airport, another busy workday was underway. Secretaries moved quickly between offices. Telephones rang almost constantly. Stacks of financial reports covered nearly every available desk. The company was racing toward the beginning of its passenger operations. Shortly before noon, a young receptionist knocked gently on an office door.

"Mr. King?" Roland King looked up from a pile of legal documents.

"Yes?"

"A telegram just arrived for you." He accepted the envelope and immediately noticed the sender. Vendetta Investments. His brow furrowed.

"I don't recognize the name." Curious, he opened it and carefully read every line. Without another word, he stood and walked down the hallway. Henry Keller looked up from his desk as Roland entered.

"What is it?" Roland handed him the telegram.

"Take a look." Henry adjusted his glasses and slowly read the message. When he finished, he looked back at Roland.

"A private investment company?"

"So it seems." Henry reread the telegram.

"They're requesting a meeting..."

"... not asking to buy stock." Roland nodded.

"Which makes this unusual." Henry leaned back thoughtfully.

"We're preparing for our public offering."

"I wasn't expecting anyone to approach us privately." Roland crossed his arms.

"What do you think?" Henry remained silent for several moments.

"My first instinct is to decline." Roland nodded.

"So is mine." Another silence followed. Then Henry tapped the telegram lightly against his desk.

"But I'll admit something."

"What?"

"I'm curious." A faint smile appeared on Roland's face.

"So am I." Neither man had ever heard of Vendetta Investments. Neither knew who Enzo Lombardi was. But both understood one thing. Nobody flew from New York to Texas simply to exchange pleasantries. There had to be a reason. And they intended to find out. 》》 Friday, May 7, 1971 Afternoon Enzo Lombardi's Office — Thompson Manufacturing The afternoon sun cast long beams of light across the polished wood floor of Enzo's office.

The sounds of the factory continued beyond the thick walls—sewing machines humming in rhythm, forklifts moving pallets of canvas, and workers preparing another shipment of Thompson Outdoor Gear for retailers across New York and Pennsylvania. The office door opened quietly. James entered, carrying his school satchel over one shoulder.

Anthony was already seated at the conference table, while Enzo stood beside the large window overlooking the factory floor. He turned with a smile.

"Welcome back, James."

"How was school?" James placed his bag beside one of the chairs.

"Mrs. Eleanor Parker assigned us arithmetic problems for Monday." Anthony chuckled.

"I imagine those are much easier than negotiating with businessmen." James laughed softly.

"I'd rather negotiate." That earned a laugh from both men.

Enzo reached into his desk drawer before handing James the telegram.

"It arrived this morning." James unfolded it carefully. He read every word without rushing. When he reached the signature... he folded it again.

"They accepted." Anthony nodded.

"They did."

"But only for an exploratory meeting."

"Exactly as we expected." James smiled.

"That's all we needed." Anthony leaned back.

"I'll admit something." James looked at him.

"I honestly thought they would decline immediately." James rested his elbows on the table.

"They're entrepreneurs."

"They've spent years fighting lawsuits."

"They've survived because they listen."

"They may reject our proposal..."

"But refusing to hear another businessman?"

"That isn't how entrepreneurs usually think." Anthony nodded slowly.

"When you explain it that way..."

"... it sounds obvious." James smiled.

"Sometimes opportunities begin with nothing more than a conversation."

Enzo walked toward the coffee table and poured three cups. The aroma filled the office. He handed one to Anthony and another to James before taking his own seat.

"Now," Enzo said.

"We have exactly one week." Anthony opened his notebook.

"So..."

"What exactly are we presenting?" James became serious.

"The proposal itself won't be enough." Anthony raised an eyebrow.

"What do you mean?" James pointed toward the telegram.

"They're expecting an investor."

"If we arrive acting like bankers..."

"We'll fail." Enzo listened carefully.

"So what should we do instead?" James answered almost immediately.

"We show them we understand what they've endured." Anthony looked curious.

"The lawsuits?" James nodded.

"They've spent four years defending the right to exist."

"They don't need another businessman telling them numbers."

"They already know their numbers."

"What they need..."

"... is someone who believes in what they're trying to build." The room fell quiet.

Anthony slowly closed his notebook.

"I hadn't considered that." James continued.

"Our investment offer remains important."

"But it shouldn't be the first thing they remember." Enzo smiled.

"What should be?" James looked at both men.

"They should remember that we respected them."

"That we admired their determination."

"That we weren't there to control their company." Anthony nodded.

"Just like with Arthur Bradford and Martin Fletcher." James smiled.

"Exactly."

"We invested in people before we invested in businesses." Enzo leaned back comfortably.

"And that's worked well so far."

Anthony turned another page.

"Let's review our numbers."

"If they ask." James nodded.

"Go ahead." Anthony began reading.

"Vendetta Investments currently holds approximately one million seven hundred sixty-two thousand dollars after yesterday's Kentucky Derby proceeds." Enzo nodded.

"Our financial position is strong." Anthony continued.

"The proposed investment remains..."

"One point five million dollars." James confirmed it.

"Yes." Anthony looked up.

"And thirty percent equity."

"A board seat."

"Regular financial reports."

"No operational interference." James nodded again.

"Correct." Enzo smiled.

"Simple."

"Transparent." Anthony closed the folder.

"I still believe they'll reject it." James chuckled.

"So do I." The answer caught both men off guard. Anthony blinked.

"You really think so?" James nodded calmly.

"Yes."

"The timing favors the IPO."

"Our proposal makes business sense..."

"... just not for where they are today." Enzo took a sip of coffee.

"Then why am I strangely optimistic?" James smiled faintly.

"Because even unsuccessful negotiations can create successful relationships." Anthony laughed.

"I suppose that's one way to look at it."

The office became quiet once more. Outside, workers continued loading trucks carrying Thompson Outdoor Gear to retailers throughout New York State. James stood and walked toward the large window. Below him, hundreds of employees worked with confidence and purpose. Only a few months earlier... many of those same people had feared losing their jobs forever. Now... the factory was expanding. New products were entering the market. Victory Athletics had become a partner.

Landmark 21 Realty had joined Vendetta's growing portfolio. And now... another opportunity waited hundreds of miles away in Texas. James looked toward the distant Manhattan skyline visible beyond Brooklyn.

"One step at a time," he thought.

"The future isn't built in a single deal."

"It's built by making the right decisions... over and over again." Behind him, Enzo watched his grandson silently. The old businessman smiled to himself. James was still only ten years old. Yet every week... he sounded a little more like the businessman he was destined to become. Enzo received another telegram that afternoon as well, so he read it for James and Anthony. It was from Oregon.

Victory Athletics Incorporated Officially Formed The company will now operate under its new name: Victory Athletics, Inc We also unveiled a new corporate emblem designed by graphic design student Emily Carter, featuring a single sweeping forward arc resembling a wing in motion. This emblem rebranding better represents the company's long-term vision as it prepares to introduce original athletic footwear in the near future. Patrick Keller Founder/Managing Director Victory Athletics Inc.

》》 Thursday, May 13, 1971 Departure for Texas A full week had passed since SkyWest Airways had accepted Vendetta Investments' request for a meeting. During those days, Thompson Manufacturing had hardly slowed down. Production of Thompson Outdoor Gear continued at full speed. Marcus Carter had begun reorganizing part of the factory for the future Victory Athletics apparel division, carefully separating work areas without interrupting existing production.

Leslie Carter continued refining the company's advertising campaign, reviewing newspaper placements and retailer feedback from New York and Pennsylvania. Anthony spent much of the week preparing legal documents, researching aviation regulations, and studying every available piece of information regarding SkyWest Airways. Enzo, meanwhile, continued overseeing the factory while preparing for another business trip.

Thursday, May 13 12: 30 p. m. Thompson Manufacturing The lunch whistle echoed throughout the factory. Employees slowly made their way toward the cafeteria while others gathered outside the building to enjoy the spring weather. Inside Enzo's office, however, lunch had been replaced by paperwork. Anthony carefully closed a leather portfolio.

"I think that's everything." Enzo looked over.

"Meeting notes?" Anthony nodded.

"Financial statements."

"Our proposal."

"Corporate information."

"Legal drafts."

"And enough blank paper in case negotiations go somewhere unexpected." Enzo laughed.

"You always pack for every possibility." Anthony smiled.

"It's my job." James, sitting quietly beside the window, looked up from a notebook.

"I prefer being overprepared." Anthony pointed toward him.

"See?"

"I like the way he thinks." Enzo chuckled.

"I've noticed."

A few minutes later, Leslie knocked before entering.

"You asked me to bring the production reports." She handed several folders to Enzo.

"The factory is running smoothly."

"Marcus asked me to tell you not to worry while you're away."

"He'll oversee the production adjustments himself." Enzo smiled.

"I expected nothing less." Leslie looked toward James.

"I hope your trip goes well."

"Thank you, Mrs. Carter." She smiled warmly before leaving the office.

2: 15 p. m. Marcus entered, carrying his clipboard.

"So..."

"Texas." Enzo nodded.

"Texas." Marcus folded his arms.

"I assume James found another opportunity." Anthony laughed.

"When doesn't he?" James rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly. Marcus smiled.

"Well..."

"I hope they're smart enough to recognize a good offer." James answered honestly.

"They probably won't." Marcus blinked.

"What?" James shrugged.

"I expect them to reject us." The room became silent. Marcus looked first at Anthony. Then at Enzo. Finally, back to James.

"Then why are you going?" James smiled.

"Because sometimes..."

"... the first meeting isn't about closing the deal."

"It's about opening the door." Marcus slowly nodded.

"I suppose that makes sense." Enzo stood.

"It certainly makes for an interesting trip." Everyone laughed.

3: 40 p. m. Manhattan Metropolitan Airport The terminal buzzed with travelers. Businessmen hurried toward departure gates carrying briefcases. Families waited patiently near large windows overlooking the runways. Flight attendants in crisp uniforms welcomed passengers arriving for afternoon departures. An announcement echoed through the terminal.

"Atlantic Continental Airways Flight 217 to Dallas is now boarding." Anthony checked his watch.

"Right on schedule." Enzo smiled.

"One thing I appreciate about Atlantic Continental."

"They're punctual." James looked through the terminal windows as a silver-and-blue jet taxied toward the runway. Even after everything he had experienced since returning to 1970... Flying still fascinated him.

The three checked their luggage before walking down the boarding bridge. A smiling flight attendant greeted them.

"Welcome aboard, gentlemen." Enzo nodded politely.

"Thank you." Their seats were together near the front of the aircraft. As passengers continued boarding, Anthony opened his briefcase one final time.

"I have one question." James looked over.

"If they reject us tomorrow..."

"What do we do?" James answered without hesitation.

"We thank them." Anthony blinked.

"That's it?" James nodded.

"We leave professionally."

"We wish them success."

"And we keep the relationship alive." Enzo smiled.

"No arguments."

"No pressure." James nodded again.

"Exactly." Anthony leaned back in his seat.

"I've negotiated contracts for nearly twenty years."

"But this..." He smiled.

"... is the first time I've traveled expecting to lose." James laughed softly.

"I wouldn't call it losing."

"What would you call it?" James looked out the window as the aircraft slowly pushed back from the gate.

"Planting a seed." Neither Enzo nor Anthony replied. Both simply watched as Manhattan slowly disappeared beneath the aircraft's wings. Ahead lay Dallas... And a meeting that none of them expected to succeed— Yet one that might change Vendetta Investments' future in ways none of them could yet imagine.

Friday, May 14, 1971 Love Field Airport – Dallas, Texas The receptionist stopped before a wooden office door. She knocked gently.

"Mr. King? Your guests from New York have arrived." A voice answered from inside.

"Please, send them in." The receptionist opened the door.

"Gentlemen." Enzo, Anthony, and James entered. The office was modest and functional rather than impressive. Route maps of Texas covered one wall, while another displayed photographs of Boeing 737 aircraft. Filing cabinets overflowed with legal documents, engineering drawings, and financial reports. A large wooden conference table occupied most of the room. Five people stood as the visitors entered. The man nearest the head of the table stepped forward first. He extended his hand with a welcoming smile.

"Mr. Lombardi, I presume?" Enzo shook it firmly.

"That's right."

"My name is Enzo Lombardi."

"It's a pleasure to finally meet you." The man smiled.

"Likewise."

"I'm Roland King, President of SkyWest Airways." He then turned toward Anthony.

"And you must be Mr. Russo." Anthony returned the handshake.

"Anthony Russo. Corporate counsel for Thompson Manufacturing and Vendetta Investments."

"Welcome to Dallas."

"Thank you." Roland's eyes finally rested on the youngest member of the group. He looked briefly puzzled before smiling politely.

"And this young gentleman is...?" Before James could answer, Enzo spoke.

"My grandson, James Lombardi." Roland looked mildly surprised but hid it well.

"I see." He offered his hand anyway.

"Welcome, James." James shook it respectfully.

"Thank you, Mr. King." Henry Keller stepped forward next.

"I'm Henry Keller." He smiled at each of them.

"I handle most of the legal affairs around here." Anthony smiled.

"Then I imagine you've been very busy these past few years." Henry laughed.

"That's probably the understatement of the decade." The tension in the room eased immediately. Roland continued the introductions.

"I'd also like you to meet a few members of our management team." He gestured toward a man organizing several financial folders.

"This is Michael Foster, our Finance Manager." They exchanged handshakes. Next came another executive.

"Our Operations Director, David Lawson." David smiled warmly.

"It's a pleasure." Finally, Roland introduced the last member present.

"And this is Susan Mitchell, our Corporate Secretary." She greeted them politely.

"Welcome to SkyWest." Once everyone had been introduced, they took their seats around the conference table. For a brief moment... Silence filled the room. Outside the office windows, the distant sound of jet engines drifted across Love Field. Roland folded his hands on the table and smiled.

"Mr. Lombardi..."

"First of all, thank you for making the trip from New York." Enzo nodded.

"The pleasure is mine." Roland continued.

"I have to admit, your telegram caught us by surprise." Enzo smiled slightly.

"I suspected it might." Henry leaned back in his chair.

"We're only weeks away from our planned public offering."

"We honestly weren't expecting anyone to ask for a private meeting." Anthony nodded.

"That was understandable." Roland smiled again.

"Which is exactly why we're curious." He looked directly at Enzo.

"So..."

"What was important enough to bring you all the way from New York to Dallas?" The room became completely still. Enzo glanced briefly toward Anthony... Then toward James... Before returning his attention to Roland. A faint smile crossed his face.

"I believe," he said calmly, "that before we discuss business... it's only proper that we introduce ourselves properly." The real negotiation was finally about to begin. 》 Friday, May 14, 1971 Love Field Airport – Dallas, Texas The room fell quiet. Roland King rested his forearms on the conference table. Henry Keller closed the legal folder that had been lying in front of him. The rest of SkyWest's management listened attentively. Enzo smiled politely.

"I believe that before we discuss business... it's only proper that we introduce ourselves properly." Roland nodded.

"I couldn't agree more." Enzo leaned back comfortably.

"My name is Enzo Lombardi."

"I was born in Italy."

"I immigrated to the United States in 1940 with little more than a suitcase, a few dollars, and the hope that hard work would build a better future." The SkyWest executives listened without interruption.

"I settled in New York."

"Not long afterward, I met my late wife, Claire." A faint smile appeared on Enzo's face at the memory.

"Her father, William Thompson, owned a small textile manufacturing company."

"When he passed away, Claire inherited the business."

"I started as a floor supervisor."

"I learned every department."

"I spent years walking the factory floor before I ever sat behind a desk." Michael Foster nodded with interest.

"I've always believed that's the best way to understand a company." Enzo smiled.

"I think so, too." He continued.

"In 1941, after Claire and I married, I became Chief Executive Officer."

"The company wasn't large."

"We had limited equipment."

"Limited customers."

"And more problems than opportunities." A few smiles appeared around the table. Roland nodded knowingly.

"Every young company knows that feeling." Enzo laughed softly.

"I imagine you do." He continued.

"We spent years growing steadily."

"Then, in the mid-1950s, we secured our first military manufacturing contract."

"It changed the company's future."

"We expanded."

"Hired more employees."

"Modernized our equipment."

"Signed additional contracts." Anthony added,"By the end of 1970, Thompson Manufacturing employed more than six hundred people." Michael's eyebrows rose.

"That's impressive." Enzo nodded.

"It gave many families stable work."

"But success can sometimes become dangerous." The room became quieter.

"We became too dependent on military contracts." Henry nodded slowly.

"I've seen companies make that mistake." Enzo looked toward the window for a brief moment.

"Late last year..."

"We made one of the biggest decisions in our company's history."

"We voluntarily left the military business." That statement immediately caught everyone's attention. Roland leaned forward.

"You walked away?"

"Voluntarily?"

"We did." Michael looked surprised.

"That couldn't have been an easy decision."

"It wasn't."

"There were people who believed I had lost my mind." A few chuckles spread around the room. Enzo smiled.

"Instead..."

"We created an entirely new civilian division."

"Today, we manufacture outdoor equipment, work clothing, travel gear, and other products under our Thompson Outdoor Gear brand." David Lawson looked genuinely interested.

"How has the transition gone?" Enzo's expression brightened.

"Better than we expected."

"Our retailers responded positively."

"Our production continues increasing."

"And most importantly..."

"We kept our employees working." Roland smiled.

"Congratulations."

"That isn't easy."

"Thank you." Enzo nodded appreciatively.

"Recently, we also entered another partnership." Anthony smiled slightly.

"A young athletic company in Oregon."

"They were formerly known as Summit Athletic Supply." Roland immediately recognized the name.

"The distributor of Kawasaki Tiger shoes?"

"That's right."

"They've recently rebranded as Victory Athletics." Henry nodded.

"I read about that." Enzo continued.

"We invested in them."

"Not because they were the largest company."

"They certainly aren't."

"But because we believed in their future." Michael exchanged a quick glance with Roland. The statement lingered in the room. Roland smiled faintly.

"Interesting." Enzo simply nodded.

Roland rested his hands on the table.

"Well..."

"I suppose it's our turn." Enzo smiled.

"We'd be honored." Roland looked around the room before beginning.

"My story isn't nearly as long."

"It began with a simple frustration." Everyone listened.

"I was tired of seeing ordinary people pay expensive airfares simply because there wasn't enough competition." Henry smiled.

"So we started asking ourselves a question."

"What if flying didn't have to be expensive?" David Lawson laughed.

"People told us we were dreaming." Michael added,"Some told us we were crazy." The room laughed together. Roland continued.

"We incorporated in nineteen sixty-seven."

"We had a vision."

"Three Texas cities."

"Dallas."

"Houston."

"San Antonio."

"Low fares."

"High frequency."

"No unnecessary luxury."

"Just reliable transportation." Henry folded his arms.

"The vision was simple."

"The legal reality..."

"... wasn't." Everyone around the table smiled knowingly.

"For nearly four years," Henry continued, "we fought lawsuit after lawsuit."

"Every time we won..."

"Someone filed another challenge." Roland nodded.

"There were days I honestly wondered if we'd ever fly." David quietly added,"There were moments when we weren't sure the company would survive." Silence filled the room. James watched each face carefully. He could hear the exhaustion hidden beneath their calm voices. These weren't businessmen chasing easy money. These were founders who had spent years fighting simply for permission to exist. The atmosphere around the table had changed. They were no longer strangers. They were entrepreneurs...

Sharing the stories that had shaped their companies. And only now... Did it finally feel like the real negotiation could begin. 》》 Chapter 5 (Continuation) May 14, 1971 – Friday Dallas, Texas – SkyWest Airways Headquarters, Love Field Airport The office remained quiet for several long seconds after Enzo finished speaking. The proposal still rested on the table between them. Investment: $1. 5 million. Thirty percent ownership. Board representation. Monthly financial reports.

Yet complete operational freedom would remain with the founders. Roland King slowly folded his hands together. He looked toward Henry Keller. Neither man spoke immediately. The silence itself carried weight. Finally, Roland leaned forward.

"I'll admit something, Mr. Lombardi." He smiled faintly.

"When your telegram arrived, I assumed this meeting would simply be another financial institution trying to convince us to delay our public offering." He shook his head.

"I didn't expect someone to walk through that door offering to become an actual partner." Enzo nodded respectfully.

"I've always preferred building companies instead of lending them money." Henry adjusted his glasses before speaking.

"And it's an impressive offer." His tone was sincere.

"Six months ago...

"... we probably would have accepted before dessert." Everyone laughed softly. The tension eased. James remained completely silent. Exactly as planned. This negotiation belonged to Enzo. He simply observed. Watching expressions. Body language. Small pauses. The same details he had spent years teaching college students to notice during business negotiations.

Roland finally exhaled.

"Unfortunately..." He looked almost apologetic.

"... our situation has changed." He opened a folder resting beside him. Inside were several financial schedules. Projected cash flow. Aircraft lease agreements. Operating expenses. Legal reserves. Capital requirements. He slid one page toward Enzo.

"Our investment bankers estimate our public offering will raise approximately six million dollars." Anthony quietly examined the paper. The numbers were realistic. Roland continued.

"That amount allows us to purchase additional aircraft..."

"... hire crews..."

"... build maintenance capacity..."

"... and most importantly..." He tapped the legal expense line.

"... survive." Henry nodded.

"We've already survived years of lawsuits."

"But survival still costs money."

Enzo studied the figures carefully. He wasn't offended. Nor surprised. He simply nodded.

"I understand." There was genuine respect in his voice.

"If I were sitting in your chairs..."

"... I would likely make the same decision." Roland smiled appreciatively.

"I'm relieved you understand."

"I was worried this meeting might end awkwardly." Enzo laughed.

"Business isn't personal."

"It shouldn't become personal."

Anthony closed the financial statement.

"Out of curiosity..."

"If circumstances were different..."

"... would this proposal have interested you?" Henry answered immediately.

"Without question." Roland nodded.

"A million and a half dollars from a patient partner instead of public shareholders..." He smiled.

"That's a dream for many entrepreneurs."

"But right now..."

"... our board believes the IPO is the better path."

For the first time since arriving, James quietly spoke. Only one sentence.

"We sincerely hope it succeeds." Everyone turned toward the young boy. Roland smiled.

"So do we." Henry chuckled.

"We've fought too hard to fail now." James returned a small smile.

"I believe determination is one of your greatest assets." Nothing more. No strange predictions. No hints. Just a respectful compliment. Henry appreciated it.

"Thank you, son."

Enzo slowly stood.

"I believe we've reached the end of today's discussion." Roland stood as well.

"So have I." The two men shook hands firmly. Not as opponents. But as businessmen who respected each other. Anthony packed his briefcase. James picked up his notebook. Before leaving, Enzo reached inside his jacket. He removed a simple ivory-colored business card. Across the front was printed: Vendetta Investments Chairman — Enzo Lombardi National Telegraph & Cable Company Contact Number He handed it to Roland.

"If..."

"... anything unexpected happens..."

"... or your circumstances change..."

"... don't hesitate to contact us."

"No promises."

"No obligations."

"But my door remains open." Roland accepted the card politely.

"I appreciate that." Henry slipped the card carefully into a folder instead of a pocket.

"We'll keep it." The gesture didn't go unnoticed. James quietly smiled to himself. Good. They didn't throw it away. That's enough for today.

Outside, the warm Texas afternoon greeted them. Aircraft engines echoed across Love Field. Passengers hurried between terminals. Ground crews guided aircraft into position. Life continued as if nothing significant had happened. Yet James couldn't shake the feeling that this meeting wasn't truly over. Only postponed. They climbed into the waiting sedan. As the car pulled away from SkyWest Airways' headquarters, James looked back through the rear window one last time.

The building slowly disappeared behind the airport hangars. He said nothing. Neither did Enzo. Anthony eventually broke the silence.

"Well..."

"I suppose that's one negotiation we officially lost." Enzo chuckled.

"Perhaps." James looked out the window toward the runway.

"Not every seed grows the day it's planted." Neither Enzo nor Anthony replied. But both remembered those words as the Dallas skyline slowly disappeared behind them.