Building a Conglomerate in Another World-Chapter 178: Running for Presidency?

March 3, 1892

The atmosphere at Matthew Hesh’s residence in the northern provinces buzzed with productivity. Teams of engineers coordinated resource development, while security forces maintained a watchful presence across the oil fields and refineries. The new infrastructure projects progressed ahead of schedule, and for the first time in weeks, Matthew had found a rare moment of peace to spend with Amber.

Amber was still glowing from the pregnancy news, though the confirmation from a physician was scheduled for later that week. The idea of becoming a father both excited and humbled Matthew. The possibilities of shaping not only a business empire but a family of his own gave his ambitions new purpose.

His peaceful thoughts, however, were interrupted by the unexpected arrival of a distinguished guest.

A man in his early fifties, dressed in a finely tailored suit, arrived at the governor’s residence escorted by a team of assistants. His name was Edward Farnsworth, a well-known political strategist from Amerathia’s capital. He was a man with influence, often rumored to operate behind the scenes of the country’s political machine.

Matthew welcomed him into the office, offering a firm handshake. "Mr. Farnsworth. I wasn’t expecting a visit. What brings you all the way out here?"

Farnsworth smiled warmly and took a seat. "Governor Hesh, I’ll get straight to the point. You’ve become one of the most admired figures in Amerathia. The nation owes much of its industrial rise to your innovations, and your governance of this territory has demonstrated that you’re more than just a businessman. You’re a capable leader."

Matthew raised an eyebrow, unsure where this was leading. "I appreciate the compliment, but what exactly are you implying?"

Farnsworth leaned forward slightly. "Governor, the presidential election is fast approaching. President Clay has served his term well, but many in the party believe it’s time for a new leader—someone with vision, someone who embodies Amerathia’s future. We want you to run for president."

The room fell silent. Matthew blinked, processing the proposal. "Me? President? You can’t be serious."

"I assure you, we are," Farnsworth replied. "Your name has been circulating in political circles for months now. You’re a household name. Every major publication credits your innovations for transforming our economy. Foreign nations rely on Hesh Industries for technology and energy. You’ve achieved what many thought impossible—making Amerathia the world’s dominant industrial power."

Matthew stood and walked over to the window, staring out at the horizon where the refinery’s smokestacks rose in the distance. He’d always been ambitious, but this was a different level altogether.

"I’m an industrialist, Mr. Farnsworth. A businessman. I don’t have political experience beyond managing this province."

"And yet you’ve proven capable of governing effectively," Farnsworth countered. "The northern provinces are thriving under your leadership. You’ve built infrastructure, created jobs, and maintained stability in the aftermath of war. Those are qualities we need in the nation’s highest office."

Matthew crossed his arms, his mind racing with possibilities and doubts. "Why me? There are other politicians who have been preparing for this their entire careers."

"Amerathia doesn’t need another career politician," Farnsworth said bluntly. "It needs a leader who understands industry, technology, and the needs of the modern world. Someone who can take us into the 20th century with strength and innovation. You’re that leader."

Later that evening, Matthew shared the news with Amber as they sat together on the balcony.

"They want you to run for president?" Amber repeated, her tone a mixture of shock and intrigue.

"Apparently, I’m popular enough to be considered," Matthew replied with a sigh. "It’s flattering, but it’s also overwhelming. I didn’t expect this."

Amber reached for his hand, giving it a gentle squeeze. "I can see why they’d ask. You’ve changed the country, Matthew. People respect you. They trust you. But the question is, do you want this?"

Matthew stared at the distant refinery lights, contemplating her question. "I never imagined myself in politics. But if I could lead Amerathia... I could shape policies that would benefit industry, science, and education for generations. We could secure our position as the world’s most advanced nation."

Amber nodded thoughtfully. "You’ve always been a visionary. If anyone can handle the pressures of leadership, it’s you. But this decision affects both of us—and our future family. We need to be sure."

"I know," Matthew said softly. "There’s still time before the filing deadline. I’ll give it serious thought."

The next day, Matthew convened a meeting with his closest advisors, including General Carter Hayes, Jenkins, and Amber. He explained Farnsworth’s proposal, gauging their reactions.

"I think you’d be a strong candidate," General Hayes said without hesitation. "You’ve proven your leadership here. The military trusts you, and your influence in the industrial sector is unmatched."

Jenkins nodded in agreement. "The nation looks up to you. If you run, I think you’d win by a landslide."

Amber chimed in, her voice steady. "It’s a huge responsibility, Matthew. But I believe you’re capable of carrying it. Just make sure you’re doing it for the right reasons."

Matthew exhaled slowly. "I’ve never been afraid of responsibility. If I accept, I’ll be running on a platform of innovation and growth. Amerathia’s strength lies in its industries and technological advancements. We need policies that support progress."

"What about your business empire?" Jenkins asked. "Running a nation is a full-time job."

"I’ll delegate more responsibilities to trusted executives," Matthew replied. "Amber will oversee some operations, and Hesh Industries has a strong management structure in place."

Over the following days, Matthew’s mind was a whirlwind of calculations, scenarios, and possibilities. He consulted with legal experts on the logistics of transitioning from business leadership to political office. By the end of the week, he made his decision.

He summoned Farnsworth back to his residence.

"I’ve thought it over," Matthew said, his voice firm. "I’ll run for president."

"I’ve thought it over," Matthew said, his voice firm. "I’ll run for president. But understand this—I won’t play political games. I’ll lead with integrity and focus on the future. If that’s a problem for the establishment, they can find someone else."

Farnsworth grinned, shaking Matthew’s hand. "You’ll have our full support. Welcome to the race, Governor Hesh." Stay connected through novelbuddy

As Farnsworth departed, Matthew stood with Amber on the steps of their residence.

"You’re really doing it," Amber said softly, a hint of pride in her voice.

"I am," Matthew confirmed. "This isn’t just about me anymore. It’s about building a legacy—for us, for our child, and for the nation."

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Amber smiled. "Then let’s change the world."