章 8: Chapter 8 I am a minority shareholder!

In an office filled with retro vibes and decorations, Howard poured a glass of red wine for himself and Mark. "Very good, nephew, you really are the son of Jiang Wanshan," Howard said, sounding impressed. "You've surprised me. Oh, you're still reading? Maybe it's best to stop drinking."

He called out, "Catches, bring my little guest some coffee."

Mark's mouth twitched at Howard's antics. He had poured the wine in front of Yifu, only to take it back—what a stingy host.

"Mr. Jiang, here's your coffee, please enjoy," a secretary in a sleek short skirt and uniform entered with a smile, swaying seductively as she walked. Her youthful figure was on full display.

"Alright, let's get to it, kid. Tell me what you want. This gun is impressive. Sell me the blueprints, and I'll give you a fair price. Trust me, my dad and I worked together, I wouldn't cheat you!" Howard's casual demeanor quickly shifted to one of seriousness as he swirled the wine glass in his hand.

"Well, I believe you," Mark responded coolly, taking a sip of coffee before Howard could snatch it away too. "Though, I remember my father saying Howard Stark was the second-last scientist in America."

"Excuse me? Wait! What do you mean the second-last scientist? I'm the top scientist in America!" Howard suddenly burst into a fit of frustration, knowing he couldn't argue with someone who wasn't even alive anymore.

"Whether you are or not, I'll surpass you soon enough. Here's the AK-47 design." Mark handed him the blueprint. "I've researched its power and market potential. On the European battlefield, it will outperform the Type 44 rifles currently in use. I want 10% of Stark Industries' shares in exchange. I don't need to be involved in running the company; I just want my dividends." Mark's tone was calm and confident, knowing this approach would work best with someone like Howard. Skipping the pleasantries and speaking directly often worked with men of science.

Sure enough, Howard's face grew serious. "Ten percent? You're ambitious. Why not ask for cash?"

Mark smiled confidently. "Because with my technical support and your management skills, the future profits will far exceed the value of any upfront cash payment. Don't you have faith in your own abilities?" His confidence was infectious, and it was hard not to believe him.

Howard burst into laughter. "Well said! Old Jiang Wanshan would be proud to know his son is so capable. Fine, 10% it is. Let me get a contract drawn up. You've earned the great Howard Stark's respect, my partner and minority shareholder of Stark Industries. Anything else? As long as it's reasonable, I'll grant it!"

Howard downed his wine, his face flush with satisfaction. Mark's straightforward compliments had clearly hit the mark. Only Howard knew how many people had laughed at him when he left the Academy of Sciences to start his own company. Stark Industries, which had only been doing basic firearm maintenance, now had a chance to break into the arms industry.

"I need to attend MIT. I'm close to graduation. High school wasn't much, but college will allow me to learn more. Also, I need $2,000 in cash. I nearly went broke developing this weapon!" Mark explained with a shrug.

Howard chuckled. "Funny kid. I almost forgot. Didn't you blow up your house last time? Alright, $2,000 is too little, I'll give you $10,000. The company doesn't have much cash right now, but it will soon. I'll be presenting this weapon to the senators tomorrow. This AK-47 is the key to our rise!"

"That's perfect. This rifle will be enough for now, but stability is what soldiers need on the battlefield. Nobody wants to be stuck with weapons that jam." Mark replied with confidence, pleased that he'd secured a long-term deal instead of a one-time payout.

Within two hours, the secretary returned with the contract, freshly typed on a traditional typewriter—a testament to her competence. After reviewing the document, Mark signed. He was now a shareholder in Stark Industries, a company bound to become a cash cow.

"How about dinner tonight, partner?" Howard asked, reverting to his casual tone now that business was settled. He briefly scanned the blueprint, noting that it contained all the necessary assembly details, confirming that Yifu wasn't holding anything back.

Mark declined with a smile. "Let's celebrate when you secure the military's order." He was more interested in going home to read or experiment than attending a dinner.

Howard shrugged, "As you wish, minority shareholder." He, too, was eager to get to work, as the AK-47 was bound to be a game-changer in the arms industry.

As Mark left the building, he felt a surge of confidence. No wonder people say that wealth brings confidence—his steps were lighter as he walked away, feeling like he was floating. If it weren't for the fear of attracting too much attention, he might have done a little victory dance right there.