“Please tell,” Jasper replied, sounding neither arrogant nor inferior.
In truth, Jasper had given Old Master Law a call when he made his way over to Suesville to meet Gale. He had also asked Old Master Law something, and instead of forbidding Jasper to go, Old Master Law said something intriguing.
“I don’t see a problem with you going to meet Gale Hurlbutt, Jasper. While that old man has a short temper, he sees his dignity as more important than anything else. There’s no way he would push that aside and do anything to you.
“Not to mention that you’ve really offended the businesspeople from Haddock this time. If you could get a positive reaction from Gale, then you’ll at least be safe from open attacks from the Haddock Chamber of Commerce.
“But be extremely cautious when dealing with Gale, Jasper. This man is very sly, and there’s more to him than his facade of being uncaring and retired.”
With those words still echoing in his ear, Jasper thought back to everything that had happened since he met Gale.
Jasper did indeed feel that Gale had more in mind for him, but there was no confirming whether they were good or bad plans.
Gale’s white eyebrows twitched slightly, and he smiled at Jasper. “Do not worry, young man. I am not the kind who would hold the fact that I am your elder over your head. If anything, I would propose a win-win bargain.
“I am sure that you are aware of Waterhoof City being our country’s financial center even without me telling you. There will only be more use for Waterhoof City in the future and policies would only begin to favor the city more. It is a treasurable plot of land.
“Our chamber of commerce had initially planned the speed up development in Waterhoof City, but we had not expected a young man like you to appear mid-way and almost overpower our Waterhoof City branch’s forces in one go.
“Since this is a loss you caused, it is only right that you fix the issue.”
Gale’s eyes were filled with intent when he spoke. He looked at Jasper meaningfully. “I have decided to have you take the role of Waterhoof City branch’s vice president. You will be required to preside over the Haddock Chamber of Commerce as it integrates into Waterhoof City.”
Jasper was stunned.
He had prepared himself for Gale stating a large price to pay or that there would be a sinister plan in store for him.
The last thing Jasper imagined was for this old man to welcome him into the Haddock Chamber of Commerce while also giving him the position of Waterhoof City branch’s vice president.
As this position was out of his scope, Jasper frowned and shook his head. “I’m sorry. I’m not even a member of the Haddock Chamber of Commerce to begin with, nor do I have any plans to enter any chambers of commerce for the time being. Especially not as the vice president of a city as important as Waterhoof City… I don’t think that’s a good idea.”
Unsurprised by Jasper’s reaction, Gale chuckled and replied, “We call it a chamber of commerce, but it is more of a loose community than anything else. There are no limitations when it comes to the members. Of course…
“I could give you a formal promise if you require. The chamber will not force you to do anything you are unwilling to do.
“However, no matter how loose this community is, it is still an organization with centuries of history. I do not wish to see the Haddock Chamber of Commerce come to an end in my hands.”
“Waterhoof City is important, but there are too few people within the chamber suitable for such a job… You, however, are the best fit for the role.”
Gale turned to Jasper seriously before continuing, “Three years. I just need you to take the role for three years. Then you may leave if you wish.”
Jasper frowned. “What if I become the vice president in name only, Old Master Hurlbutt? What if I spend those three years lazing about and make no contributions at all?”
Gale smiled. “As I said, the chamber will not force you to do anything. If you do not wish to do anything for those three years, that is fine as well.”
The nicer Gale was being, the more Jasper wary Jasper felt.
Yet no matter how he mulled over it, Jasper could not find any obvious issues with the proposal.
