“My team will handle this.” Thomas watched as Anthony turned away, already dismissing him from mind. But what happened next would prove just how wrong first impressions can be and how quickly fortunes can change when desperation meets opportunity. Anony’s phone rang. He answered immediately, hoping for rescue. His expression fell as he listened. 2 hours? That’s not acceptable. The system is giving me less than 40 minutes before permanent damage. He paced, the crowd’s whispers growing louder around him. No, I understand it’s proprietary.
That’s why I bought it from you. There has to be someone closer. Thomas stood quietly, watching as the billionaire’s options dwindled in real time. The security guards maintained their position between him and Anthony, but their stance had relaxed slightly as the situation’s true nature became clear. Fine, I’ll wait. Anthony ended the call with visible frustration. useless. He looked at his watch again, then at the smoke still steadily rising from the hypercar’s engine compartment. The security guards exchanged glances.
“Sir,” the taller one said, “Perhaps we should clear the area if there’s a risk of fire.” “There won’t be a fire,” Thomas interjected calmly. “The smoke is from coolant vaporizing against the thermal shielding. Fire risk is minimal. The real concern is microscopic damage to the quantum thrust bearings, which will cost approximately $870,000 to replace if they fail completely. All three men turned to stare at him. How do you know the exact replacement cost? Anthony demanded. Because I helped calculate the original manufacturing specifications, Thomas replied evenly.
The bearings use a proprietary alloy blend that requires specialized fabrication. Only two facilities worldwide can produce them. Lead time is 11 weeks. Anony’s skepticism visibly wared with his growing curiosity. That information isn’t public. No, it isn’t. Thomas agreed. The taller security guard leaned closer to Anthony. Sir, we could call the police if this person is harassing you. Anthony waved him off, studying Thomas with new intensity. You said your name is Thomas Johnson. Yes. And you claim you worked for Aerotch Industries.
I didn’t just work there. I led the thermodynamics team that developed the original cooling system your car’s engine is based on. Thomas spoke without bravado simply stating facts. Patent number AT5729 QX registered 5 years ago. The Quantum Apex’s system is a modified version with the same fundamental architecture. Anony’s eyes widened slightly. That patent number wasn’t something anyone outside the industry would know. He stepped closer, lowering his voice. If you’re who you say you are, why are you?
