Chương 21: One Problem

The question struck him like a bullet, causing Matthew to pause, his fingers still resting on the steering wheel. A patent? He hadn't given it much thought, not because it wasn't important, but because he had been so focused on perfecting the automobile itself.

Amber noticed the sudden shift in his expression and leaned forward slightly, her eyes narrowing with concern.

"Is something the matter, Mr. Hesh?"

Matthew took a deep breath, forcing a confident smile back onto his face. "Ah, forgive me. I wasn't expecting such a question," he admitted, turning to face Mr. Fitzwilliam directly. "To answer your question, sir… no, it isn't patented yet."

Mr. Fitzwilliam's brows furrowed, his expression shifting from admiration to something closer to concern.

Mr. Fitzwilliam's gaze hardened, his eyes sharp and discerning. "Then how can I invest in something you don't have proprietary rights to?" he asked with a disappointing tone. Any businessman worth his salt knows that securing ownership is paramount. Without a patent, what's to stop others from copying your design and mass-producing it themselves?"

The air inside the automobile seemed to grow heavier, and Matthew could feel Amber's concerned gaze boring into him from the back seat.

"I can certainly say that I am the only capable being in this country, no in the whole world that can make this automobile."

"It doesn't matter," Fitzwilliam interrupted coldly, and continued. "Being the only one capable now does not guarantee that someone else won't reverse-engineer your invention the moment it hits the market. Without legal protection, your hard work and innovation could be stolen in the blink of an eye."

Matthew's hands tightened around the steering wheel, his knuckles turning white.

"You're right, Mr. Fitzwilliam," Matthew conceded. "I've been so focused on the technical aspects, on proving that this machine works, that I've overlooked the importance of securing its future. But that's precisely why I'm seeking investors like you. With your support, I can acquire the legal protections necessary to ensure that this invention remains mine."

"Filing a patent is a cheap process. You can do it on your own. Once it is patented, we can discuss business. But for now, I cannot commit any resources to something that lacks the necessary legal safeguards," Fitzwilliam said with finality, his tone leaving no room for argument.

Matthew's heart sank slightly, but he quickly forced himself to focus. This was a setback, not a defeat.

"I understand, sir," he replied. "I appreciate your candor. I will prioritize securing the patent immediately."

"Father, perhaps there's a way to help Mr. Hesh secure the patent more efficiently?" she suggested, her tone gentle but insistent.

Fitzwilliam turned to his daughter, his expression softening just a fraction. "And what do you propose, Amber?"

Amber met his gaze confidently. "We have connections with patent attorneys in the city. Why not lend Mr. Hesh some assistance in navigating the process? That way, once the patent is secured, you'll have a stronger foundation to invest in. And it won't take long."

Mr. Fitzwilliam studied his daughter for a moment, his stern expression gradually softening as he weighed her suggestion. He glanced back at Matthew, who remained tense, still gripping the steering wheel as if it were the only thing anchoring him.

"Very well," Fitzwilliam said at last, letting out a reluctant sigh. "I'll make some arrangements. You will have access to our attorneys, Mr. Hesh, but make no mistake—this is not a favor lightly given."

Matthew's eyes widened in relief and gratitude. "Thank you, sir. I promise, I will make full use of this opportunity."

Fitzwilliam gave a curt nod, turning away as if already dismissing the matter. "Ensure you do," he replied. "I do not appreciate wasted efforts."

Amber, sitting in the back seat, allowed herself a small, satisfied smile as she watched her father turn toward the mansion. She then leaned forward, catching Matthew's eye.

"I'm glad you were willing to take up the challenge, Mr. Hesh," she said softly. "Now, the real journey begins."

Matthew met her gaze, and for a moment, the tension in his shoulders eased. "Thank you, Miss Fitzwilliam. I won't disappoint you."

Amber tilted her head slightly, "I'm certain you won't. And please, call me Amber."

The informality caught Matthew off guard, but he nodded, a small smile breaking through his earlier worry. "Only if you call me Matthew."

She laughed softly, the sound like a gentle chime, and nodded. "Very well, Matthew."

"Let's head back to my estate now," Fitzwilliam declared, his tone firm, signaling that their discussion had reached its conclusion.

Matthew nodded, turning his attention back to the road ahead. With a deep breath, he adjusted the gear lever and gently pressed down on the accelerator. The automobile lurched forward smoothly, the engine's hum filling the silence that had settled between the passengers.

As they drove through the winding paths of the estate, Matthew couldn't help but steal a glance at Amber in the rearview mirror. She was looking out at the passing scenery, her expression calm yet thoughtful. For a moment, their eyes met, and she offered him a soft, reassuring smile that sent a flutter through his chest.

"Matthew," she said, breaking the silence, "I trust that you'll make the most of the resources my father is offering. But remember, securing that patent is just the beginning."

Matthew nodded, keeping his eyes on the road. "I understand. This is the push I needed, and I promise I won't waste it."

Amber leaned back, satisfied, and turned her gaze back to the sprawling fields of the Fitzwilliam estate. Her father remained silent, arms crossed, deep in his own thoughts.

They soon arrived back at the grand entrance of the mansion, where a team of servants was already waiting. Matthew brought the car to a smooth stop, and the engine sputtered to a halt.

Mr. Fitzwilliam was the first to step out. "I will have my attorneys contact you within the next two days," he stated curtly. "In the meantime, I suggest you gather whatever documentation you have regarding your invention."

"Of course, sir," Matthew replied with a respectful bow. "Thank you again for this opportunity."

Fitzwilliam merely nodded, then turned to his daughter. "Amber, I'll be in my study. See that Mr. Hesh finds his way out." With that, he strode toward the mansion, his figure disappearing behind the heavy oak doors.

Amber watched her father go, then turned to Matthew with an apologetic smile.

"Don't mind him," she said softly. "He's strict, but once he believes in someone, he's loyal."

Matthew chuckled lightly, rubbing the back of his neck. "I can tell he doesn't give his trust easily."

Amber stepped closer, her eyes searching his. "He just needs to see that you're serious," she said, her tone gentle yet encouraging. "Show him what you're capable of, and he will be an ally you can count on."

"You are so very kind, Miss Amber…"

"Amber," she corrected.

"Amber," he repeated, letting the word roll off his tongue, the informality still feeling foreign, but not unwelcome. "I truly appreciate all you've done today. I'm certain that with your family's support, I can protect my invention and turn my vision into reality."

"I'm glad to hear that, Matthew. I look forward to seeing your progress."

Before she could turn away, Matthew cleared his throat, mustering up the courage to ask the question that had been forming in his mind since they first locked eyes.

"Actually… I was wondering if you'd do me the honor of joining me for dinner sometime," he said, "As a small token of my gratitude for everything you've done."

Amber's eyes widened slightly, her expression caught between surprise and delight. For a moment, she seemed taken aback, as if she hadn't anticipated such an invitation. But then, a soft smile spread across her lips.

"A dinner, you say?" she replied, her tone playful yet warm. "I must admit, it's not often I receive such invitations. And from an inventor, no less."

"No way…with your beauty?" Matthew paused, realizing he might have said more than he intended. Amber's eyes sparkled with amusement.

"I didn't mean—" Matthew stammered, his face flushing with embarrassment, but Amber held up her hand, a playful smile dancing on her lips.

"Flattery, is it?" she teased, tilting her head slightly. "You're certainly not like the other men I've met, Matthew. Most are far too reserved to even attempt such a compliment."

Matthew let out a nervous chuckle, rubbing the back of his neck. "I'm afraid I lack the polished charm of the high society you're used to, Amber. But my offer is sincere. It would be an honor to have your company for an evening where we can talk."

"Very well, Matthew," she said finally. "I accept your invitation. But on one condition."

Matthew straightened, curious. "And what would that be?"

"I want you to pick me up in that automobile."

Matthew chuckled. "That's easy."

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