Chapter 55: Market Value Trillion USD Group?

"Mr. Hayes, would you be interested in joining Stark Industries as a board member?" one of the reporters asked as Ethan Hayes stopped in his tracks.

Ethan smiled. "I only hold 1% of Stark Industries' shares. This investment is purely a value play, and I plan to hold for the long term. In the future, Stark Industries is going to be a group with a market value in the trillions of USD."

A hush fell over the reporters on both sides of the red carpet before they erupted into whispers and exclamations. "A trillion-dollar group? Market value in the trillions?" many repeated in awe.

Ethan, unfazed, turned away from the press and walked directly toward Tony Stark. The man of the hour greeted Ethan with an enthusiastic handshake.

"Mr. Hayes, welcome," Tony said with a broad smile, his eyes twinkling with excitement.

Ethan grasped Tony's hand, still feeling a thrill of excitement. In his previous life, Iron Man had been his idol. No, more than that—he was every man's idol. While Tony eventually settled down, the first half of his life had been the dream template for all men, and the second half? The ideal image of wealth and success.

"Please, call me Ethan. You're a role model for all of us," Ethan said.

Tony laughed. "I like you already, Ethan. You absolutely have to visit Stark Tower tonight. I've got a program planned just for you."

Ethan grinned. "Absolutely. I invested in this company because I believe in you. You're my golden goose."

Tony chuckled even more. "You're a smart kid. I suggest you buy more stock while you're at it. We're going to hit that trillion-dollar market value, no question."

Tony didn't mind sharing his wealth with investors who supported him. As long as no one threatened his control, he was fine with others sharing in the riches Stark Industries had to offer. And it was clear that Ethan, with his investment, understood the future potential of Stark Industries.

The two quickly bonded, discussing everything from Tony's plans for the company to the technologies Stark Industries was developing. Ethan, using his knowledge of the future, subtly guided the conversation, dropping hints about what was to come. Tony was fascinated by the insights.

"You know, Ethan, we could be future MIT alumni. If you need a letter of recommendation, I'd be happy to write one for you," Tony offered with a proud smile.

"Thank you, Tony. I'll keep that in mind," Ethan said, appreciating the gesture even though he had no intention of going to university. Tony's recommendation could open doors at MIT, but Ethan had other plans. Still, it was a kind offer from a man whose name carried a lot of weight.

Pepper Potts was busy entertaining other guests, as Tony had clearly handed over much of the company's day-to-day operations to her. As Stark Industries' new president, she was constantly on the move.

Ethan found a quiet spot and sat down with a glass of champagne. Eventually, Pepper made her way over to him.

"Mr. Hayes, hello. I'm Pepper Potts," she greeted, extending her hand.

"Miss Potts, I've heard so much about you. If I didn't already have a girlfriend, I'd definitely be chasing you," Ethan said with a playful smile as he lightly kissed the back of her hand.

Pepper laughed. "Mr. Hayes, you're quite the charmer. But I think Tony's got that covered."

"Of course he does. You two are a perfect match," Ethan replied. Pepper's sharp mind and business acumen had always impressed him. As Tony's partner, she was much more than just a pretty face—she was his real-life goddess of wealth.

Pepper glanced at Tony, who was chatting animatedly with another guest. "I'm just here to manage the company. Tony's taste in… other things doesn't align with mine."

Ethan chuckled. "A man chasing a woman is like climbing a mountain, but a woman chasing a man is like lifting a veil. Sometimes, Pepper, opportunities are right in front of you. Tony's already started to change after everything he's been through—even a stranger like me can see it."

They clinked glasses, and Pepper's expression grew more thoughtful. Ethan leaned in, lowering his voice. "You know, I can see the future. I predict you'll have a little princess one day."

Pepper laughed, shaking her head. "You're full of surprises, Ethan. A fortune teller, too?"

Ethan grinned. "Don't tell anyone. It only works if it's kept secret."

Pepper couldn't help but smile. "Tony's arranged a party tonight, you know. I'm sure you'll enjoy it."

Ethan shook his head. "I'd rather not be the kid at the party drinking Coke while everyone else enjoys the champagne. I'm still three years away from being legal, after all."

Pepper blinked, suddenly remembering that Ethan was only eighteen. "You're right—far too young to drink."

"Tell Tony I had a great time. And please, have Happy give me a ride. My things are still in his car," Ethan said as he stood to leave.

"Of course, Mr. Hayes—uh, Ethan. Or should I say Ace? That's what you just told me your new English name was, right?"

Ethan laughed. "You're the first to hear it. Ace. I thought it suited me."

Pepper smiled. "You don't seem cold at all, though—you've got the energy of fire."

As Ethan left, he handed his champagne glass to a waiter and waved. Pepper watched him go, her mind whirling. She had forgotten that Ethan's parents had been murdered just two years ago. Despite his tragic past, he had integrated himself into this world and was thriving.

"Ace is a nice kid," Pepper murmured, glancing back at Tony, who was still caught up in his conversation.

Tony noticed her look. "What's on your mind, Pep?"

"Just thinking that you're more of a kid than he is," she teased.

Tony frowned. "Why?"

"Figure it out yourself," she replied, walking away with a knowing smile.

In the car, Happy glanced at Ethan through the rearview mirror. "Mr. Hayes, do you really think Stark Industries could be worth trillions?"

Ethan chuckled. "Don't say that in front of Tony—he'll get jealous."

"Tony's a genius," Happy said with admiration.

"Yes, he is. And sometimes, the world needs a genius to change it. Tony is one of those people," Ethan replied, studying Happy's expression. "But it seems you've already put your money on him, haven't you?"

Happy grinned sheepishly. "I invested all my savings into Stark Industries when Tony announced he was shutting down the weapons division."

Ethan gave him a thumbs up. "You have good instincts, Happy. It'll pay off."

"Thank you, sir. After seeing what Tony's been working on, I know it's the right move," Happy said, his smile widening.

As they arrived at Ethan's apartment, Happy offered to help with his luggage. Ethan waved him off, but before leaving, he tapped on the car window.

"Happy, if Tony ever finds himself in trouble again, give me a call," Ethan said, materializing an ice-cold business card from thin air and handing it over.

Happy stared at the card, shocked. "I'll do that, sir."

"Good," Ethan replied, smiling as he disappeared into his building.

Happy shook his head, placing the card carefully in his pocket. "Mr. Hayes isn't an ordinary person," he muttered to himself as he drove away.

Meanwhile, Natasha Romanoff—wearing a sleek white dress—approached Happy. "Long time no see," she greeted warmly.

Happy, still recovering from the sight of Ethan's business card, looked up. "Natasha, what brings you here?"

Natasha's sharp eyes caught the faint chill from Happy's pocket. "Happy, what's in your pocket?"

He pulled out the frozen business card, and Natasha's expression changed instantly. She recognized the craftsmanship immediately.

"How did you get this?" she asked, her tone serious.

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