[Chapter 23: Investment and Celebration]
"Boss, it's time to start thinking about your investments. Keeping money in the bank won't beat inflation," suggested Henry Zhou.
"What do you recommend?" Linton already had some plans in mind but decided to ask for Zhou's opinion first.
"The economy is booming right now, especially in the tech industry, exerting significant influence globally. It's actively expanding in markets around the world. I suggest focusing on the computer industry, and you might also consider investing in oil and Coca-Cola. For real estate, investing in property would be a good idea, too."
Linton couldn't help but admire Zhou's investment insight. Having traveled from the future, Linton wasn't an expert in stocks, but he was well aware of the global economic trends, and he had some understanding of companies that profoundly impacted the world.
The 1990s was a time of rapid development in personal computers. Microsoft was dominating globally, and Bill Gates had become the richest man in the world -- almost impossible to overlook. Personal computers from the U.S. were all the rage worldwide, with Dell and Compaq also being highly renowned.
The boom of the internet also began, giving birth to several globally recognized companies like Cisco, Yahoo, Apple, Google, Amazon, and Facebook. It was nearly impossible not to know about these companies, and Silicon Valley emerged as a global hub for high-tech enterprises.
Although the growth of Coca-Cola and the oil industry wasn't as explosive, they were still making significant strides in the market worldwide. Real estate in the U.S. generally appreciated until the housing crisis in 2008 -- a steady upward trend.
With this in mind, Zhou's investment vision seemed rather impressive.
"Alright, have a trusted stockbroker contact me. I'm planning to invest 16 million dollars in the stock market, purchasing shares in Microsoft, Cisco, Dell, and Compaq. I'll allocate 6 million to Microsoft, 4 million to Cisco, and 3 million each to Dell and Compaq."
Zhou thought Linton's approach was too risky and suggested he should consider diversifying into other stocks to balance the risk. But Linton had a clear memory that the computer industry was on a fast track during the 1990s, and these stocks were the frontrunners. Investing in them might not guarantee the highest profits, but it would certainly outperform the general market without significant risks.
He told Zhou not to change it, citing his strong belief in the rapid development of the computer industry.
"Oh, and have a real estate agent look for suitable office space for sale in Silicon Valley. The bigger, the better."
Linton felt comfortable where he was living, especially since he had signed a one-year lease and had no intention of moving. The appreciation rate for high-end residences was steady at that time. However, Silicon Valley was different; its future was unimaginable, with enormous potential for price appreciation. Buying property and establishing a presence there was the best choice.
"Also, it's time to start designing a reasonable tax avoidance plan for me. I don't want to be paying hefty taxes next April."
"Sure, I'll get on that right away."
---
Having earned so much money, Linton felt it wouldn't do to keep it all to himself, so he first transferred 30,000 dollars to his aunt. Aunt Kelly quickly called him:
"Linton, why are you sending me money out of the blue?"
Linton explained, "I received my music royalties, and I wanted to share a bit with you."
Kelly declined, saying, "There's no need for that. We're doing just fine. You don't have to send me anything."
"Aunt, don't be so quick to refuse. Even if you don't need it, Judy does. I want to help her attend a good school. You can help her find a private school in San Francisco, and with that, Judy will have a better chance of getting into a good college."
Mentioning her daughter softened Kelly's stance: "Alright then, thank you, Linton."
"No need to mention it; we're family."
---
Linton thought it was only right to celebrate his good fortune. He asked Mira to go to Chanel and get the latest women's handbag. Cameron and Naomi were busy filming, so he contacted Winona, who was in Los Angeles, and arranged to have dinner with her at an intimate restaurant that evening.
That night, Winona arrived wearing a chic knee-length blue Chanel dress paired with black high heels and black tights -- simple yet exuding charm. Linton presented her with the handbag, saying,
"Darling, you look absolutely stunning tonight!"
"Really? You look quite handsome yourself."
They shared a deep kiss and casually talked about their recent work successes. After a candlelight dinner, Linton initially thought about bringing her back to his villa, but Winona suggested going to her apartment instead, claiming she had some fun surprises planned.
...
Once at Winona's apartment, which was a well-equipped two-story unit, they immediately fell into each other's arms as soon as they entered.
"Darling, do you want to try something exciting?"
"Of course," Linton replied, considering what playful adventure they could share.
Winona stood up and went to the closet, returning shortly after, moving quietly with a seductive aura.
"Hey, babe, let's play a fun game, shall we?" she purred softly, extending a remarkably pale hand clad in black.
Linton's eyes widened as he gazed at her in custom black leather gear, complete with a choker. His breath quickened as he stood, feeling the wild beast inside him awaken.
"You're truly tempting!" he said, gently tugging on the collar's leash and whispering in her ear.
The next morning, when Linton was leaving, Winona could barely keep her eyes open. Sleepily, she mumbled, "Come back tonight."
...
Realizing it was already the 27th, Linton figured he needed to hurry home and finish writing the remaining three songs.
The first song, Reality.
The second song, That's the Way Love Goes.
The third song, Want to Want Me.
...
Naturally, that night was just as fulfilling. Besides, it could enhance his ability. Being careful to avoid the press, he didn't mind himself but needed to consider Winona's circumstances. He had Danny drive him to her apartment and then return home alone, arranging for Danny to pick him up the following morning.
The events of the night, well, those could be left to the imagination. Winona was full of surprises while Linton faced them with bravery.
---
The next day, Linto invited Mira to BMI to finish the copyright registration for the three new songs. He handed them to Daniel at Universal Music. With that, all thirteen songs for the album were complete.
Daniel was overjoyed and immediately called Lisa to wrap up the arrangements and prepare for recording.
---
On the 29th, Mira brought more good news: three of the brands he represented had already paid their endorsement fees, for 2 years combined, totaling 9.6 million dollars. After deducting the 10% commission for WMA, Linton's account credited him with 8.64 million dollars.
Having so much money sitting in the bank wasn't wise, so he called Zhou again and asked him to contact a stockbroker to reinvest 6 million dollars, restructuring to allocate 2 million each to Microsoft and Cisco, and 1 million each to Dell and Compaq.
*****
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