Chapter 156: Why are you investing in my research project?
After dinner, we chatted for a while on the balcony while enjoying a bottle of fine wine.
Eliott, who was usually a bit shy, started talking up a storm. I wasn’t sure if it was because he was drunk or because he finally felt comfortable around us.
“So, Aaron… can I call you Aaron? My father agrees with your investment in the future of technology. You’ve already invested in a few unicorn companies that he’s very optimistic about.”
“Oh, really? The fact that your father follows news about these companies means that he’s got a discerning eye. Most older folks think that my investments won’t yield much return; they focus more on traditional businesses, like oil and power.”
“Those businesses were divided up long ago, and these new technological businesses are just entering the field.” Cin- der joined the conversation as well.
I was totally confused by everything they were talking about. Even though two of the people in the conversation were my lover and my best friend, I still felt distant from them at this moment.
I felt that the three of them were in some kind of special circle. Of course the circle was unseen and untouchable, but still very real.
“…but I’m a bit puzzled about your investment in neuro- science, which you’ve never invested in before. According to your company’s financial report, you invested in a lab at Co- lumbia University. Are you optimistic about the future of this field?” Eliott inquired.
“Yes, I believe the neuroscience industry is bullish.”/Aaron glanced at me.
“But the applications of neuroscience are far into the fu- ture; I don’t think it’s wise to invest in it right now…” Eliott con-tinued.
“Eliott,” Cinder interrupted, “I’m feeling really drunk, can you take me back to our room?”
“But-”
“Now.”
“…Fine.” Eliott compromised for the stubborn Cinder.
I was still thinking about the conversion when I got back to my room.
“What are you thinking about? You’re so focused that you didn’t even notice when I kissed your cheek.” Aaron held my face in his hands and planted gentle kisses on my eyelids and lips.
I pushed him away and crossed my arms over my chest. I asked the question that had been gnawing at my mind: “Aaron, be honest with me. Why did you invest in my research project?”
He rested his chin on my head for a moment, then I no- ticed that his lips were curled in a relaxed smile. “Because your project has a lot of promise.”
This project is my life’s work, so of course I think my re-
search will have a lot of applications in the future, but…
Eliott is right. The main value of the project right now is academic, so it may be a while before the technology has commercial value.
I used to think that Aaron was a smart businessman who
would not mix his emotions into his work, but now I’m a bit unsure. Before this, I was a bit full of myself and thought Aaron invested in my research because he truly believed in it. When I thought about it, I knew that was impossible. Also, when he invested, our relationship was a bit complicated. I was still Vincent’s girlfriend back then…
When Aaron moved to kiss the corners of my lips again, I placed a hand over his mouth. “I don’t believe you.”
“Okay.” He shrugged and nipped my hand before giving my fingers erotic kisses and languid licks. “It really is be- cause…”
“I invested millions of dollars because it was for you. Are you touched?”
“Quit messing around and tell me the truth.” I shoved his face away.
“Well, that’s the truth. I invested in your project because of you.” He wore an innocent expression, even though he knew I was angry. “But you’re only one factor. Our family do- nates a lot of money every year, and you know that donations have always been a great way to avoid taxes.”
“I merely invested the money that I planned to invest into an Antarctica penguin conservation into your lab instead.” He gave my finger one more gentle bite and slowly got up off the bed to wrap me in a warm embrace. He let go of my hand and gave me a loving kiss. “Is that truth satisfactory?”