Chapter 149: Investing in the Future - December 8th, 2003 (Revised)
Date: December 8th, 2003
The days following his initial conversation with Mark Zuckerberg were filled with contemplation for Holmes. He spent hours researching the social networking landscape, analyzing The Facebook's potential, and weighing the risks and rewards of investing in such an early-stage venture.
Realistic Thought:
- "This could be the next big thing. It could revolutionize the way people connect and communicate. But it's also a huge gamble. The internet is a fickle place, and there's no guarantee that this will succeed."
Realistic Narration:
- However, Holmes was drawn to Mark's passion, his vision, and his unwavering belief in his product. He also recognized the potential synergy between The Facebook and his own brand, particularly in terms of connecting with fans and promoting his music and films.
Reconsidering Mark Zuckerberg's Proposal:
Realistic Scene:
- After much deliberation, Holmes decided to take a chance on The Facebook. He called Mark Zuckerberg and scheduled a meeting to discuss the terms of the investment.
Realistic Conversation:
- Holmes: "Mark, it's Holmes. I've been thinking about your proposal, and I'm interested in investing in The Facebook."
- Mark Zuckerberg: (Excitedly) "Mr. Holmes! That's fantastic news! I'm thrilled to hear it!"
- Holmes: "I'm willing to invest $500,000 in exchange for 10% of the company's shares."
- Mark Zuckerberg: "That's amazing! That would be a game-changer for us. We could really expand the site and build a solid team with that kind of funding."
- Holmes: "I'm glad to hear it. But I want to be clear that I'm not just investing my money. I want to be involved in - Holmes: "I'm glad to hear it. But I want to be clear that I'm not just investing my money. I want to be involved in the company's growth and development. I want to offer my expertise and my connections to help you succeed."
- Mark Zuckerberg: "That would be incredible! I would value your input and your guidance. You have so much experience in building a brand and connecting with people. I think we could learn a lot from you."
- Holmes: "Great. Then let's make this happen. I'll have my lawyers draw up the paperwork, and we can finalize the deal as soon as possible."
- Mark Zuckerberg: "Thank you so much, Mr. Holmes. This is a dream come true. You won't regret this decision."
Realistic Narration:
- The deal was struck, and Holmes officially became an investor in The Facebook. He was excited about the potential of the company and eager to work with Mark Zuckerberg to bring his vision to life.
Conversation with Aliko Dangote about AfroGlobal:
Realistic Scene:
- Later that day, Holmes received a call from Aliko Dangote, his business partner in Nigeria.
Realistic Conversation:
- Aliko Dangote: "Holmes, my friend! How are you doing? It's been too long!"
- Holmes: "Aliko, it's great to hear from you! I'm doing well, busy as always. How's everything in Nigeria?"
- Aliko Dangote: "Things are exciting here, my friend! AfroGlobal is really taking off. We're making waves in the entertainment scene and showcasing African talent to the world."
- Holmes: "That's fantastic news! I'm so proud of what we've accomplished together."
- Aliko Dangote: "We couldn't have done it without you, Holmes. Your vision and your influence have been invaluable."
- Holmes: "So, what's the latest? Give me some highlights."
- Aliko Dangote: "Since we launched in early 2003, AfroGlobal has signed some of the hottest new - Aliko Dangote: "Since we launched in early 2003, AfroGlobal has signed some of the hottest new artists in Nigeria. We're producing music, films, and TV shows that are capturing the imagination of audiences across the continent. We recently had a premiere that was attended by dignitaries from all over the world."
- Holmes: "That's amazing, Aliko! I'm so glad to hear it. Are we seeing a return on our investment?"
- Aliko Dangote: "Absolutely! We're already profitable, and we're projecting even bigger growth in the coming years. The demand for African entertainment is exploding, and AfroGlobal is perfectly positioned to capitalize on that trend. In just a year, the company has generated 50 million Dollars and projections are high we expect more than 70 million this year."
- Holmes: "That's fantastic, Aliko! Keep up the great work. Any exciting new projects in the pipeline?"
- Aliko Dangote: "We're developing a major film project that we think could be a global sensation. It's a story rooted in Nigerian culture but with universal themes that will resonate with audiences everywhere. We're also planning a series of concerts featuring some of our biggest artists."
- Holmes: "That sounds incredible, Aliko. I'm excited to see what you come up with. I wish I could be there to celebrate with you, but I'm swamped with filming right now."
- Aliko Dangote: "I understand, my friend. Just know that you're always welcome here. Your presence would be a great honor. Maybe next time."
Realistic Narration:
- Holmes hung up the phone, feeling a sense of excitement about AfroGlobal's potential. He was thrilled to be a part of a company that was promoting African talent and culture to the world.
Michael Jackson's Invitation:
Realistic Scene:
- Later that evening, Holmes received a call from Michael Jackson.
Realistic Conversation:
- Michael Jackson: "Holmes, my brother! How are you doing? It was so great seeing you at the party the other night."Realistic Conversation:
- Michael Jackson: "Holmes, my brother! How are you doing? It was so great seeing you at the party the other night."
- Holmes: "Michael, it's good to hear from you. I'm doing well, just busy with filming. How about you?"
- Michael Jackson: "I'm doing great, Holmes. I'm working on some new music, and I'm feeling really inspired. I was wondering if you'd like to come over to Neverland sometime soon. I'd love to show you around and maybe even play you some of my new tracks."
- Holmes: "That sounds amazing, Michael. I would love to, but I'm really tied up with filming right now. It's going to be a while before I have any free time."
- Michael Jackson: "I understand, Holmes. But you know you're always welcome at Neverland. Just let me know when you're free, and I'll roll out the red carpet for you."
- Holmes: "I appreciate that, Michael. I'll definitely take you up on that offer as soon as I can."
Realistic Narration:
- Holmes felt a sense of gratitude for Michael's friendship. He admired Michael's artistry and his passion for music. He hoped that he would have the opportunity to visit Neverland soon.
Angelina's Continued Advances:
Realistic Scene:
- As Holmes was settling in for the night, he received another call from Angelina Jolie.
Realistic Conversation:
- Angelina Jolie: "Holmes, darling! I've been thinking about you all day. I just can't get you out of my mind."
- Holmes: (Sighing inwardly) "Angelina, I've told you before, I'm not interested. I'm happily married, and I don't want to jeopardize my relationship."
- Angelina Jolie: "Oh, come on, Holmes! Don't be so boring! Life is too short to play it safe. We could have so much fun together. Imagine the headlines! The two hottest stars in Hollywood, together - Angelina Jolie: "Oh, come on, Holmes! Don't be so boring! Life is too short to play it safe. We could have so much fun together. Imagine the headlines! The two hottest stars in Hollywood, together... it would be electric!"
- Holmes: "Angelina, I appreciate your flattery, but I'm not interested in tabloid headlines. I'm interested in building a life with my wife, and that's what I'm going to do."
- Angelina Jolie: "But Holmes, don't you feel any attraction towards me? Be honest."
- Holmes: "I'm not going to lie, Angelina. You're a beautiful woman, and I'm not blind. But I'm committed to my wife, and that's that. Please, stop calling me. I don't want to be rude, but you're making me very uncomfortable."
- Angelina Jolie: "Fine, Holmes. But don't say I didn't warn you. You're missing out on something special."
Realistic Narration:
- Holmes hung up the phone, feeling a mix of frustration and exasperation. Angelina's persistence was becoming increasingly annoying. He was determined to maintain his boundaries, but he couldn't shake the feeling that she wasn't going to give up easily.
The chapter concludes with Holmes reflecting on the day's events. He felt a sense of accomplishment about his investment in The Facebook, a sense of pride about AfroGlobal's success, and a sense of gratitude for his friendships with Michael Jackson and Aliko Dangote. However, he also felt a sense of unease about Angelina Jolie's continued advances. He knew that he had to be vigilant in protecting his marriage and his reputation.
(End of Chapter 149)