Chương 53: Seeds of Expansion III

Arc 5 – Seeds of Expansion Wednesday, April 7, 1971 Morning Chairman's Office – Thompson Manufacturing Brooklyn Industrial District, New York By half past eight in the morning, Thompson Manufacturing was already alive. More than six hundred employees had filled the factory floor. The steady rhythm of sewing machines echoed throughout the production halls while forklifts transported pallets stacked with Thompson Outdoor Gear awaiting shipment to retailers across New York.

Inside the administration building, however, the atmosphere remained composed. Polished marble flooring reflected the morning sunlight entering through the tall windows. Wood-paneled walls surrounded the executive offices. The faint scent of fresh coffee mixed with the familiar smell of machine oil drifting in from the factory. Outside Enzo Lombardi's office... Leslie Carter was reviewing the Chairman's schedule.

Dressed in her usual navy-blue skirt suit, with her blonde hair neatly tied behind her head, she had already organized the day's correspondence, signed delivery confirmations and prepared production reports Marcus Carter had submitted before eight o'clock. A gentle knock interrupted her work.

"Mrs. Carter?" She looked up. The familiar mail carrier smiled politely. Bill Henderson.

"Morning, Bill."

"Morning, Mrs. Carter."

"I've got a priority telegram." He handed over the yellow envelope. Leslie thanked him before reading the sender. Her eyebrows lifted. She immediately stood. Inside Enzo's office... Enzo was reviewing quarterly financial reports while Anthony Russo sat across from him reading several legal documents related to Vendetta Investments. Leslie knocked once.

"Come in." She entered.

"A telegram just arrived." Enzo accepted it.

"Who's it from?"

"Evergreen Coffee & Tea Company." Anthony immediately looked up.

"They've opened already..." Enzo carefully unfolded the telegram. His eyes slowly moved line by line. Silence settled inside the office. Finally... He smiled.

"They're requesting a meeting." Anthony leaned forward.

"Problems?" Enzo nodded.

"They've discovered several operational issues after opening." He handed the telegram to Anthony. Anthony quietly read it.

"They're handling this professionally."

"They aren't pretending everything is perfect."

"They're asking for guidance." Inside Anthony's thoughts...

"That's usually a good sign."

"Companies that admit problems early usually survive longer than those pretending nothing is wrong." Enzo looked toward Leslie.

"Please arrange two round-trip tickets."

"Tomorrow morning."

"Destination?"

"Seattle."

"And return tomorrow evening." Leslie immediately wrote everything down.

"Atlantic Continental Airways still has morning departures."

"I'll reserve them immediately." Enzo nodded.

"One ticket for me."

"The other..."

"... for James." Leslie smiled.

"I imagine he'll enjoy missing school." Anthony laughed.

"I'm not sure school is what he'll be thinking about." Enzo smiled knowingly.

"No..."

"I suspect he'll spend the entire flight asking questions."

3: 10 p. m. Public School 87 Manhattan The afternoon dismissal bell echoed through the hallways. Children poured out of classrooms, laughing and talking about baseball, homework, and the coming weekend. Mrs. Eleanor Parker stood beside her classroom door, saying goodbye to each student. James emerged carrying his books beneath one arm. Across the street... Parked beside the curb... Waited Enzo's pride and joy. A deep crimson Cavallo V12 built by Maranello Motors.

Its polished body reflected the afternoon sunlight beautifully. Several parents couldn't help looking toward the elegant Italian automobile. James smiled.

"Grandpa." Enzo stepped out and opened the passenger door.

"Ready?" James climbed inside. The leather seats carried the familiar scent of Italian craftsmanship. As Enzo guided the Cavallo into Manhattan traffic... James noticed his grandfather seemed unusually thoughtful. After several quiet minutes... Enzo finally spoke.

"We're flying to Seattle tomorrow." James looked over.

"So soon?"

"We received a telegram from Evergreen Coffee & Tea Company this morning." James immediately understood.

"They're asking for help." Enzo nodded.

"They've opened successfully."

"But they've also encountered issues they want to discuss." James smiled faintly.

"Exactly..."

"Opening the doors is only the beginning." Enzo continued driving.

"I thought it would be useful for you to attend." James looked out the window.

"I'd like that." A few minutes later... The Cavallo stopped once more outside Public School 87. James looked confused.

"We forgot something?"

"No." Enzo smiled.

"I still need to excuse your absence." Inside the school office... Principal Harold Stevens greeted Enzo warmly.

"Mr. Lombardi."

"What brings you back?" Enzo shook his hand.

"My grandson won't be attending tomorrow."

"Business?"

"Yes." Principal Stevens looked toward James.

"Learning outside the classroom?" James smiled politely.

"You could say that." The principal chuckled.

"Very well."

"I'll notify Mrs. Parker."

"James has maintained excellent attendance."

"One day won't hurt."

"Thank you." Back inside the Cavallo... James looked toward his grandfather.

"You always do things properly." Enzo smiled.

"If you expect people to respect your word..."

"You respect theirs first." James quietly nodded. Another lesson.

4: 20 p. m. Design Department Thompson Manufacturing The familiar prototype workshop welcomed James back. Sketches still covered the drafting boards. Fabric samples lined the walls. Outdoor Gear prototypes occupied several display shelves. Waiting inside were the people responsible for turning James' original ideas into reality. Marcus Carter stood near the front. Beside him... William Daniels, master pattern maker. Helen Brooks, head of quality control. Samuel Ortiz, senior industrial sewing technician.

Peter Collins, production supervisor. George Miller, textile specialist. Linda Foster, the company's youngest designer. As James entered... Linda smiled.

"I had a feeling we'd be seeing you again." George laughed.

"I said the exact same thing yesterday." Even William Daniels, normally reserved, smiled.

"Good afternoon, James." James greeted every one of them individually.

"I'm glad to see everyone again." Enzo waited until everyone had taken their seats. He remained standing.

"I first want to thank every one of you." He gestured toward the Outdoor Gear display.

"Project Horizon exists because of your work." Several smiled proudly.

"The Outdoor Division has exceeded our expectations." Marcus folded his arms proudly. Inside his thoughts...

"They earned hearing those words."

"Some of these people practically lived inside this workshop for months." Enzo continued.

"We're beginning another project." The room immediately became attentive.

"This project is... different." Peter Collins raised his hand.

"In what way, sir?" Enzo answered calmly.

"It will not belong entirely to Thompson Manufacturing." Several exchanged curious looks.

"It may become part of a partnership with another company."

"If..." He emphasized the word.

"... our negotiations are successful." George Miller leaned slightly forward.

"So we're preparing before a deal exists?" The tale has been illicitly lifted; should you spot it on Amazon, report the violation.

"Exactly." Enzo replied.

"We prepare now."

"So if negotiations succeed..."

"We lose no time." He picked up one of the Thompson labels.

"Our mountain emblem remains." He placed it on the table.

"So does...""'Made in U. S. A.'""Every product leaving this factory must still represent Thompson Manufacturing quality." Helen Brooks nodded immediately.

"I wouldn't accept anything less." Enzo smiled.

"I know." He looked around.

"If anyone has concerns..."

"Ask now." William Daniels spoke.

"If negotiations fail..."

"Do these designs disappear?"

"No." Enzo answered firmly.

"They remain Thompson Manufacturing property."

"No one's work will be wasted." That answer visibly reassured everyone. Enzo then looked toward James.

"The creative direction belongs to James." James slowly stood. He placed three blank sheets across the drafting table.

"I'll keep this simple." He smiled.

"Our first product..."

"A Nylon Track Jacket." Linda immediately began sketching. James continued.

"I don't want something bulky."

"I want something athletes wear before practice."

"Early mornings."

"Cool weather."

"Light rain." George Miller asked,"What kind of nylon weave?" James thought carefully.

"Tight enough to resist light wind."

"But still breathable." George nodded while writing. Peter asked,"Front zipper?"

"Full."

"High collar?"

"Yes."

"Elastic cuffs?"

"Definitely." Samuel Ortiz looked thoughtful.

"What about reinforcing the shoulders?" James smiled.

"Good idea."

"They'll carry equipment."

"Let's strengthen them." William quietly nodded.

"He thinks practically..."

"Not artistically."

"That's rare." James lifted the second page.

"Canvas Athletic Travel Duffle." He smiled.

"I believe Thompson Manufacturing already knows something about durable canvas." Marcus laughed first.

"So that's why you picked it." Everyone joined him. James chuckled.

"I'd be wasting our experience otherwise." George smiled.

"Military-grade canvas?"

"Exactly." Peter asked,"Leather handles?" James nodded.

"Yes."

"But reinforced." Samuel immediately added,"Double stitching." James pointed toward him.

"Exactly." Finally... James revealed the last sheet.

"Heavy-knit Cotton Athletic Sweatshirt." Helen Brooks looked interested.

"What makes it different?" James answered.

"I don't want fashion."

"I want function." He slowly looked around the room.

"I want aspiring athletes and normal civilians standing outside before sunrise..."

"... to reach for this without thinking." Linda smiled.

"So..."

"Comfort first."

"Exactly." Peter asked,"Crew neck?"

"Yes." George asked,"Heavy ribbed cuffs?" James nodded.

"To trap warmth." William Daniels finally closed his notebook.

"You've given us plenty to work with." James smiled.

"I'll need preliminary designs..."

"... by Friday." The room nodded.

"And prototypes?" Helen asked.

"Before April nineteenth." James answered.

"But..."

"... if you can finish by the seventeenth or eighteenth..."

"... I'd appreciate it." William Daniels stood.

"You'll have our best effort." The rest of the team nodded in agreement. As the meeting came to an end... Marcus quietly observed the designers already discussing fabric weights, zipper suppliers, stitching methods, and pattern layouts. Inside his thoughts...

"This doesn't feel like another product..."

"It feels like we're quietly building something much bigger." 》 Arc 5 – Seeds of Expansion Chapter 3 – Thursday, April 8, 1971 Morning Seattle, Washington The silver fuselage of Atlantic Continental Airways Flight 214 rolled to a smooth stop after crossing nearly the entire country. Passengers slowly stood from their seats as flight attendants thanked them for flying with one of America's fastest-growing airlines. James looked out the small window. Seattle looked completely different from New York.

The skies were gray. The air seemed damp. Everything appeared quieter. Enzo noticed James observing the scenery.

"What do you think?" James smiled.

"It feels... calmer." Enzo nodded.

"Different cities."

"Different rhythms."

"But business works the same everywhere." The two collected their small travel bags and left the terminal. Unlike many business trips... There was no hotel reservation. No sightseeing. No unnecessary delays. Enzo had come to Seattle for one reason. Business. A taxi carried them directly toward Pike Place Market. As they approached, James noticed fishermen unloading fresh catches while dozens of shoppers walked through the crowded streets. Small independent businesses lined both sides of the road. The driver slowed.

"Right there, gentlemen." He pointed toward a modest corner storefront. A freshly carved wooden sign hung proudly above the entrance. Evergreen Coffee & Tea Company Several customers entered while others left carrying neatly wrapped paper bags. James quietly counted. One... Three... Five... Nine... A steady flow. It's not overwhelming. Not empty, either. Inside his thoughts...

"Better than expected."

"Curiosity is bringing people through the door." Enzo paid the driver. The two crossed the street. As the entrance bell chimed softly... A rich aroma immediately surrounded them. Fresh coffee beans. Ground spices. Loose-leaf tea. Unlike ordinary grocery stores... This shop encouraged customers to stop. To smell. To ask questions. To learn. Rows of burlap sacks lined one wall. Glass jars displayed teas from different regions. Coffee grinders rested beside polished wooden shelves. James quietly observed every detail.

The additional investment was immediately visible. The lighting felt warm. The displays looked organized. Shelves were well stocked. The store appeared far more polished than many independent specialty shops. Behind the main counter... Jonathan Bradley looked up. Recognition immediately crossed his face. He walked around the counter, smiling.

"Mr. Lombardi."

"I'm very pleased you came." Enzo shook his hand firmly.

"I promised we'd stay involved." Jonathan then smiled toward James.

"And it's good seeing you again." James returned the smile.

"Congratulations on opening." Steven Grant approached moments later carrying several coffee bags.

"So far..."

"We've managed to stay awake." Everyone laughed. Gregory Bowman joined them.

"You arrived at a perfect time."

"The morning rush just ended." Before discussing anything... Enzo quietly walked through the store. James followed beside him. Neither spoke. They simply observed. One elderly customer carefully compared two different coffee bags. She looked confused. A young employee patiently explained the differences. Another customer picked up a bag... Looked at the price... Raised his eyebrows... And quietly returned it to the shelf before leaving. James noticed. Enzo noticed, too. Inside Enzo's thoughts...

"Interesting..."

"The product isn't driving people away..."

"The price is." Not because it was too expensive... Because people didn't understand why it cost more. A few minutes later... Another customer purchased three bags of coffee without hesitation. He spoke enthusiastically with Steven about different roasting methods. James quietly smiled.

"There are two completely different customers."

"One already understands..."

"The other doesn't." Jonathan approached once more.

"If you don't mind..."

"We prepared the office." Enzo nodded.

"Lead the way."

Office The office behind the store remained modest. One wooden desk. A filing cabinet. Several unopened boxes. Handwritten ledgers covered almost every available surface. The room reflected exactly what Evergreen Coffee & Tea Company still was. A young business. Trying to grow. Jonathan closed the office door behind everyone. For several seconds... Nobody spoke. Finally... Jonathan broke the silence.

"I'd first like to thank both of you."

"The investment changed everything." He gestured toward the store outside.

"We hired additional employees."

"We purchased enough inventory."

"We paid every outstanding bill." Gregory nodded.

"The opening itself..."

"... went smoother than we ever imagined." Steven smiled.

"The store traffic has actually been slightly above our expectations." James quietly listened. Jonathan continued.

"Partly because we're new."

"And partly because..." He looked toward the storefront.

"... the shop simply looks professional." Enzo smiled.

"I'm glad to hear it." Jonathan slowly sat down.

"But..." His smile faded slightly.

"We've also learned something." He folded his hands together.

"Money doesn't automatically make a business successful."

"It certainly doesn't solve every problem." Silence settled over the room. Inside Jonathan's thoughts...

"I'm glad I admitted that."

"Pretending everything is perfect would accomplish nothing." Enzo slowly nodded.

"I've spent thirty years running a manufacturing company."

"If there's one thing experience teaches..."

"It is exactly that." Money creates opportunities.

"It doesn't eliminate challenges." James looked toward each founder. None of them appeared discouraged. It's only realistic. That impressed him.

Issue One — Customer Education Steven opened one of the sales ledgers.

"Our first problem isn't sales."

"It's understanding." Enzo listened carefully. Steven continued.

"Most Americans still buy coffee from supermarkets."

"They've never seen coffee treated the way we treat it." Gregory added,"When customers see our prices..."

"They immediately compare them to supermarket brands." Jonathan sighed.

"They don't understand why our beans cost more." James remembered the woman who had quietly returned the bag to the shelf. Exactly. She hadn't rejected the coffee. She simply hadn't understood it. Several moments passed. Then Steven spoke again.

"I've been thinking."

"What if..."

"We began free coffee demonstrations every weekend?" Jonathan looked toward him.

"Explain."

"We teach people."

"Show them different beans."

"Different brewing methods."

"Let them taste."

"They'll understand why quality matters." Gregory slowly smiled.

"Instead of asking customers to trust us..."

"We show them." Enzo leaned back. Inside his thoughts...

"Excellent."

"The solution came from within the company." He preferred that.

"It encourages customers."

"It builds confidence."

"It also builds relationships." Jonathan quickly made a note.

"We estimate around five hundred dollars."

"For supplies and demonstrations." Enzo nodded.

"That'sa great solution" Issue Two — Coffee Supply Gregory became noticeably more serious.

"Our biggest concern..."

"... is supply."

"We still depend entirely upon Alfred Peet."

"If demand doubles..."

"We're vulnerable." The room became quieter. James watched Enzo carefully. His grandfather never rushed these discussions. Nearly thirty seconds passed before Enzo finally spoke.

"I wouldn't change anything today." Gregory looked relieved.

"But..." Enzo continued.

"I would begin studying something." Everyone waited.

"If this company finishes 1971 profitably..."

"You should explore roasting your own coffee." Steven blinked.

"Our own roasting operation?"

"Not immediately." Enzo answered.

"Research only."

"No commitment."

"No spending."

"Simply gather information." Jonathan slowly nodded.

"If profits justify it..."

"We revisit the idea."

"Exactly."

Issue Three — Inventory Management Gregory opened another ledger.

"This one embarrassed us." Steven laughed quietly.

"A little." Gregory smiled.

"Some teas barely move."

"Certain spices remain on shelves."

"Others sell out faster than expected." Jonathan added,"And we've already disappointed customers because we didn't reorder quickly enough." Enzo asked calmly,"How are you tracking inventory?" The three founders exchanged glances. Steven finally answered, honestly.

"Mostly..."

"... memory." Everyone laughed. Even Enzo. James smiled. Inside his thoughts...

"Honest people are easier to help." Jonathan sighed.

"We've already decided something needs to change." Enzo nodded.

"A simple inventory ledger."

"Daily."

"Nothing complicated." Gregory estimated the cost.

"Three hundred dollars." Jonathan looked toward Enzo.

"We'll implement it."

"Good."

Issue Four — Building a Brand The conversation slowed. James quietly leaned toward his grandfather. He lowered his voice.

"So every future store feels exactly like this one." Enzo understood immediately. He nodded once. Then, I addressed the founders.

"If Evergreen expands..."

"I recommend complete consistency." Jonathan reached for another notebook.

"The same coffee bags."

"The same signs."

"The same employee training."

"The same customer experience." Gregory slowly smiled.

"So every customer..."

"... recognizes Evergreen immediately."

"Exactly." Enzo answered.

"A strong business isn't only remembered for its product."

"It's remembered for the experience." Inside Gregory's thoughts...

"That's something we never considered..."

"Yet it makes perfect sense." Jonathan closed his notebook.

"I believe we've accomplished more today than I expected." Enzo smiled warmly.

"No."

"You accomplished it."

"We simply helped organize the discussion." The four men stood. Hands were shaken once again. Outside... Customers continued entering Evergreen Coffee & Tea Company. The first store remained small. But inside that modest building... The foundations of something much larger were slowly taking shape.

That Evening As the sun disappeared behind Seattle's skyline... Enzo and James boarded their return Atlantic Continental Airways flight bound for New York. The day had been productive. No dramatic announcements. No miracles. Only practical decisions. Sometimes... Those were the ones that changed history the most. 》 Friday, April 9, 1971 8: 00 a. m. Outside Apartment 4B – East Street, Manhattan A few minutes after breakfast, Enzo and James left Apartment 4B together.

Enzo locked the apartment door before placing the key inside his coat pocket. The familiar black Cavallo V12 waited along the curb, its polished body reflecting the early morning sunlight. It was one of Enzo's greatest personal luxuries, and despite its powerful engine, he always drove it with remarkable care whenever James was inside. James climbed into the passenger seat while Enzo settled behind the wheel. The V12 engine came to life with its deep, unmistakable growl.

As they pulled away from East Street, Manhattan was already fully awake. Yellow taxis weaved through traffic. Delivery trucks unloaded merchandise. Office workers hurried toward subway entrances carrying briefcases and newspapers. For several blocks, neither grandfather nor grandson spoke. The conversation from breakfast still lingered in both of their minds. Finally, Enzo broke the silence.

"You seemed very certain this morning." James kept looking through the windshield.

"I am." Enzo smiled slightly.

"You've been thinking about Summit Athletic Supply for weeks." James nodded.

"I've been waiting for the right moment."

"And this is it?"

"Yes." Enzo kept both hands firmly on the steering wheel.

"What makes you so confident?" James thought carefully before answering.

"The company is about to enter one of the most uncertain periods in its history."

"They don't know it yet..."

"... but they soon will." Inside James's thoughts...

"Patrick Keller is trying to solve one crisis after another."

"He doesn't yet realize that his biggest opportunity is about to arrive disguised as his biggest problem." James couldn't reveal that. Not even to Enzo. Instead, he chose his words carefully.

"They'll soon have to make decisions they never expected to make."

"If we arrive before everyone else..."

"... we'll have the advantage." Enzo listened quietly. Inside his thoughts...

"He's speaking carefully."

"There's something he still isn't telling me."

"But whatever it is..."

"... it's important enough that he's protecting it until the negotiation begins." Enzo respected that. Trust had become the foundation of their partnership. The Cavallo turned onto the familiar street leading toward Public School 87. Children wearing uniforms filled the sidewalks. Parents exchanged quick goodbyes. Teachers stood near the entrance, greeting students one by one. Enzo stopped the car. James gathered his schoolbooks. Before opening the door, he looked back toward his grandfather.

"Once they answer..."

"... everything begins." Enzo smiled warmly.

"I'll send the telegram today." James nodded.

"I know." The boy stepped out of the car.

"Have a good day, Grandpa."

"You too." James jogged toward the school entrance. Mrs. Eleanor Parker noticed him approaching.

"Good morning, James."

"Good morning, Mrs. Parker." He entered the classroom just as the morning bell echoed through the hallways. Enzo remained in the car for a few seconds, watching until James disappeared inside the building. Only then did he shift the transmission. The Cavallo smoothly pulled away from the curb. His next destination... Thompson Manufacturing.

9: 05 a. m. Chairman's Office Thompson Manufacturing The polished marble lobby was already busy with employees beginning another working day.

"Morning, Mr. Lombardi." Security guard Frank opened the main entrance with his usual respectful smile.

"Morning, Frank." Enzo nodded before continuing toward the elevators. Inside his office, Leslie Carter was already organizing the morning correspondence while Anthony Russo reviewed several legal contracts beside the conference table. Leslie immediately stood.

"Good morning, Mr. Lombardi."

"Morning, Leslie." Enzo removed his gloves before sitting behind his large oak desk.

"I have something important to send this morning." Anthony looked up immediately.

"Regarding Oregon?" Enzo smiled.

"Exactly." He opened a drawer and removed a sheet of official Thompson Manufacturing letterhead. Looking first at Anthony, then Leslie, he said calmly,"We're going to invite Summit Athletic Supply to meet us." The room instantly became quieter. Anthony folded his hands.

"So..."

"We're making the first move." Enzo nodded once.

"Yes."

"And I'd like this invitation to leave them curious..."

"... not cautious." Leslie uncapped her fountain pen.

"I'm ready whenever you are." Enzo began dictating slowly, choosing every sentence with deliberate care… Enzo paused after the first sentence. He read it again silently. Then, he slid the paper across the desk toward Anthony.

"What do you think?" Anthony adjusted his thin-rimmed glasses before reading every line carefully. As Thompson Manufacturing's corporate attorney, he had spent nearly sixteen years drafting contracts, negotiating agreements, and studying how words could influence people's decisions. After nearly a minute, he looked up.

"I like the tone." He tapped one sentence with his index finger. > "... a confidential business opportunity that may be of mutual interest." Anthony smiled.

"It doesn't promise anything."

"It doesn't pressure them."

"It simply makes them wonder." Leslie nodded in agreement while continuing to prepare the telegraph form.

"It sounds professional."

"It also sounds important." Enzo looked toward the window overlooking the production floor.

"That's precisely what we're trying to achieve." He turned back toward Leslie.

"Write the final version." Leslie copied the message neatly onto the National Telegraph & Cable Company Priority Transmission Form. Her handwriting remained as elegant as ever. She read it aloud one final time. > To: Summit Athletic Supply Beaverton, Oregon Thompson Manufacturing of New York respectfully requests the opportunity to meet with your executive leadership on April 19, 1971, at your Beaverton headquarters. We wish to discuss a confidential business opportunity that we believe may be of mutual interest.

We respectfully request that all principal decision-makers attend this meeting. Kindly respond before April 15, 1971, so that our travel arrangements may be completed. Respectfully, Enzo Lombardi Chairman Thompson Manufacturing Brooklyn, New York Silence settled over the office once more. Anthony slowly leaned back in his chair. Inside his thoughts...

"If I received this..."

"... I'd accept."

"Not because of what it says..."

"... but because of what it doesn't say." Curiosity. That single emotion often opened doors more effectively than persuasion. Enzo finally nodded.

"I think we're ready." Leslie carefully placed the completed form inside a leather document holder.

"I'll personally take it to the National Telegraph & Cable Company." Enzo looked up.

"Thank you, Leslie." She smiled warmly.

"I'll make sure it's sent through their priority service." Within minutes, she was gone.

For a few moments... Only Enzo and Anthony remained inside the office. Neither spoke. Anthony eventually broke the silence.

"You trust James's instincts more every month." It wasn't a question. It was an observation. Enzo slowly smiled.

"I do." Anthony rested one elbow on the arm of his chair.

"I've noticed something." Enzo looked toward him.

"Whenever he asks us to wait..."

"... there's always a reason."

"And whenever he says it's time..."

"... it usually is." Enzo couldn't help smiling again.

"I've noticed the same." He stood and walked toward the large window overlooking the main production hall. Nearly six hundred employees worked below. Machines hummed rhythmically. Forklifts transported pallets across the warehouse floor. Rolls of heavy canvas moved from one department to another. Inside Enzo's thoughts...

"Six months ago..."

"Everything below existed because of military contracts."

"Today..."

"Every machine is helping build a completely different future." Anthony joined him beside the window.

"What do you think they'll say?" Enzo crossed his arms.

"I honestly don't know." Anthony chuckled.

"That's unusual."

"It is." Enzo admitted.

"But uncertainty isn't always a disadvantage." He looked back toward the empty telegraph form still lying on his desk.

"Now..."

"... the ball is in Oregon." Anthony nodded slowly.

"And while we wait..."

"... we continue preparing."

"Exactly." Enzo's expression became firm once more.

"If Summit Athletic Supply agrees to meet..."

"I intend for Thompson Manufacturing to be completely ready." Outside the office, the steady rhythm of the factory continued uninterrupted. Neither Patrick Keller nor anyone inside Summit Athletic Supply had any idea that, somewhere across the country... A single telegram was already racing westward by wire. A message that, if accepted...... would begin one of the most important negotiations in Thompson Manufacturing's history. 》 Friday, April 9, 1971 3: 40 p. m.

Thompson Manufacturing – Prototype Development Workshop The familiar sound of the Cavallo V12 echoed softly through the factory courtyard as Enzo parked in his reserved space. Only minutes earlier, he had picked James up from Public School 87, just as he did every weekday. Their drive had been mostly quiet. James had spent the ride thinking about Summit Athletic Supply. Inside his thoughts...

"By now, the telegram should already be somewhere between Chicago and the West Coast."

"If everything goes according to schedule, Patrick Keller should receive it before the afternoon ends." *"Now..."

"... all we can do is wait." The thought didn't make him nervous. It made him patient. Good negotiations always began long before both parties sat around the same table.

The elevator doors opened onto the design floor. Waiting inside the prototype workshop were the familiar members of the development team. Marcus Carter. William Daniels. Helen Brooks. Samuel Ortiz. Peter Collins. George Miller. Linda Foster. Large wooden tables were now covered with revised drawings. Compared with two days earlier... The designs looked noticeably cleaner. Every correction James had suggested had been incorporated. William Daniels welcomed them.

"Good afternoon, Mr. Lombardi."

"James." Enzo smiled warmly.

"Good afternoon, everyone." Marcus walked forward carrying several large illustration boards.

"I think you'll like what we've done." James immediately became interested.

"Let's see."

William carefully placed the first drawing onto the presentation easel. It was the Nylon Track Jacket. The silhouette looked noticeably more athletic than before. The high collar remained. The shoulders had been reshaped. The sleeves appeared slightly narrower. George Miller pointed toward several fabric samples.

"We've chosen a tightly woven nylon."

"It blocks wind well."

"Still lightweight." James gently touched the material.

"It feels good." George nodded proudly.

"It'll also dry very quickly." Helen Brooks added another observation.

"We reinforced the stress points beneath the arms."

"Those areas usually fail first." James nodded approvingly.

"Excellent." Inside Helen's thoughts...

"He notices details most adults never ask about."

"No wonder these meetings are productive."

Samuel Ortiz stepped forward carrying another drawing.

"Our second design." He carefully unfolded it. The Canvas Athletic Travel Duffle. Unlike Thompson Manufacturing's existing outdoor duffle... This one looked more refined. Rounded corners. Stronger shoulder strap. Metal hardware. Cleaner stitching. James smiled almost immediately.

"We definitely understand canvas." Samuel laughed.

"I believe many years of military contracts taught us something." Everyone around the room laughed. Even Enzo. Marcus folded his arms.

"I think this may actually become easier to manufacture than our outdoor version." Peter Collins nodded.

"The assembly process is simpler."

"And production costs should be slightly lower." James looked impressed.

"That's even better."

Finally... Linda Foster carefully lifted the last presentation board. The Heavy-knit Cotton Athletic Sweatshirt. Simple. Clean. Timeless. Exactly the kind of clothing athletes would wear before training. James quietly studied every line. Linda waited nervously. Inside Linda's thoughts...

"Come on..."

"Please don't find too many problems..." Several long moments passed. Finally... James smiled.

"This..."

"... is very close." Linda released a breath she hadn't realized she was holding. James walked closer.

"I only have a few observations." He pointed toward the neckline.

"I'd lower this slightly." He moved toward the cuffs.

"These should grip the wrist a little tighter." Next...

"The waistband should also be slightly thicker." William immediately began writing notes. Marcus looked toward James.

"Anything else?" James looked at all three drawings together. Then he slowly smiled.

"No."

"I think we've reached the point where paper has done its job." The room became quiet. James looked around at everyone.

"It's time to build them." Several members of the team smiled. This was the part they enjoyed most. Turning ideas into something real.

Enzo stepped forward.

"I'll leave the technical work to all of you." He looked at each person individually.

"William."

"Helen."

"Samuel."

"Peter."

"George."

"Linda."

"I've trusted your abilities for years."

"You helped create our Outdoor Division."

"And now..."

"... I'm asking you to help create something entirely new." The room grew completely silent. Inside William Daniels' thoughts...

"Thirty years in this company..."

"I've never seen Thompson Manufacturing change this quickly."

"And somehow..."

"... it feels exciting instead of frightening." Enzo continued.

"The target remains unchanged."

"I'd like the prototypes completed before April 18." Marcus answered first.

"We'll make it happen." William nodded.

"You have my word." Helen smiled confidently.

"We're already halfway there." Samuel added with a grin,"I'll probably spend more time with the sewing machines than with my own family this week." Laughter filled the workshop once again. Even Leslie, who had quietly entered near the doorway after returning from the National Telegraph & Cable Company, couldn't help smiling at Samuel's remark. She carried a single yellow receipt. After waiting for the laughter to settle, she approached Enzo.

"The telegram has been sent." Everyone instinctively looked toward her.

"It left New York through priority transmission." She handed Enzo the receipt.

"The operator estimated it should reach Beaverton this afternoon." Enzo carefully folded the receipt and placed it inside his jacket pocket.

"Thank you, Leslie." She smiled.

"My pleasure." James looked toward his grandfather. Neither spoke. Neither needed to. The first move had officially been made. Now... The next move belonged to Summit Athletic Supply. 》 Saturday, April 10, 1971 8: 15 a. m. Apartment 4B – East Street, Manhattan Saturday mornings always felt different. There was no rush to get James to Public School 87. No schoolbooks waiting by the front door. No school bell dictating the beginning of the day. Instead, the apartment was quiet.

Claire had come early that morning and had already cleaned the kitchen before leaving fresh bread, fruit, and coffee prepared for breakfast. Enzo sat at the dining table reading the sports section of the New York Herald while sipping coffee. Across from him, James quietly finished buttering a slice of toasted bread. For several minutes... Neither spoke. Eventually... James folded his napkin and looked toward his grandfather.

"I think it's time for another operation." Enzo slowly lowered the newspaper.

"I thought you might say that." James smiled faintly.

"This one won't require either of us to travel." Enzo raised an eyebrow.

"London?" James nodded.

"Yes." Inside Enzo's thoughts...

"Another betting operation..."

"Another calculated risk."

"Yet every one so far has strengthened Vendetta Investments." He no longer reacted with surprise. Instead... He immediately began thinking about logistics. Anthony Russo arrived a few minutes later carrying several legal folders. He had become accustomed to stopping by the apartment on Saturday mornings whenever important matters were being discussed.

"Morning."

"Morning, Anthony." He immediately noticed both Lombardis looking unusually serious.

"I assume something happened." James answered first.

"Nothing happened."

"We're planning." Anthony smiled.

"That usually means something is about to happen." Everyone laughed softly. James reached into his school notebook. Inside was another handwritten page. Unlike previous operations... This page contained only a few lines. He slid it across the table toward Enzo. Enzo carefully read it. Then read it again. Anthony watched quietly. Finally... Enzo looked up.

"This involves English football." James nodded.

"It does." Anthony leaned forward.

"Which match?" James calmly answered.

"The London Royals." Anthony immediately recognized the name.

"They're one of the strongest clubs in England." James nodded again.

"They are." He deliberately avoided mentioning the opponent. Instead... He looked directly at Enzo.

"I'd like to use the same two employees." Enzo didn't even need to ask whom he meant. Michael. Tom. The same men who had successfully completed the Las Vegas operation last month. They already understood the procedures. They knew how to avoid attracting attention. Most importantly... They knew when not to ask questions. Enzo slowly folded the paper.

"I agree." Anthony looked between both of them.

"I'll prepare the travel documents." Enzo shook his head gently.

"No need." Anthony looked surprised. Enzo explained.

"Their passports are already valid."

"They've already traveled internationally for us in the past." Anthony smiled.

"You're right."

"That certainly simplifies things." Inside Anthony's thoughts...

"Every successful operation makes the next one easier."

"We're quietly building experience." Enzo stood and walked toward the living room window. Looking down at Manhattan's busy streets, he remained silent for several moments. Then... Without turning around... He spoke.

"I'll send Michael and Tom." James nodded.

"They already know exactly what's expected of them."

"And they'll report only to you." Enzo turned back toward the table.

"As always." Anthony opened his notebook.

"When do you want them to leave?" James thought for only a second.

"As soon as reservations can be arranged."

"The sooner they arrive..."

"... the more natural their presence will seem." Anthony immediately began making notes.

"Atlantic Continental Airways to London."

"The Westminster Crown Hotel."

"Same banking contact?" James nodded.

"Empire National Bank London branch." Anthony smiled.

"I'll begin making arrangements Monday morning." James leaned back in his chair. Inside his thoughts...

"One operation in Oregon."

"Another in London."

"And prototype development here in New York."

"Everything is beginning to move at the same time." Across the table... Enzo watched his grandson quietly. Inside his own thoughts...

"He's only thirteen years old..."

"Yet somehow..."

"He's coordinating projects on three different fronts without becoming overwhelmed." It was something Enzo still struggled to fully understand. But he no longer questioned it. He simply trusted it. Outside Apartment 4B... The sounds of New York continued as always. Inside... Another carefully planned move had just been set into motion. While Thompson Manufacturing waited for an answer from Summit Athletic Supply...

And while Evergreen Coffee & Tea Company began implementing the recommendations discussed in Seattle... A new mission was already quietly taking shape— This time... Across the Atlantic.