The grand halls of the White House brimmed with anticipation. Security was tighter than usual, the air electric with curiosity and caution. Cameras flashed as the sleek black limousine came to a smooth halt at the entrance.
Dr. Richard Wong, also known in tech circles as "Tech-Man," stepped out in a custom silver suit that shimmered under the D.C. sun. Flanked by a small entourage of robotic assistants, he walked with regal poise. The press erupted in flashes and gasps.
President Marshall Grant, a towering figure with a diplomatic smile, descended the steps to greet him.
"Dr. Wong," the President said warmly, extending a hand, "Welcome to the United States. You honor us with your presence."
Dr. Wong took the hand and gave a slight bow. "The honor is mine, Mr. President. The world watches every move your nation makes. I am simply joining the dance."
They walked into the West Wing, escorted by Secret Service agents, aides, and live news cameras broadcasting the historic meeting to millions.
Inside the presidential briefing room, top U.S. officials and military commanders gathered. General Holtz, the steely-eyed Chief of Defense, stood among them. There was tension—but also awe. Everyone knew Dr. Wong wasn't just a scientist; he was a genius visionary who had cracked codes others couldn't even read.
After formal introductions, President Grant addressed the room and the cameras.
"Ladies and gentlemen of America and the world," the President began, "this is not just a meeting—this is a new chapter. A future shaped by minds like Dr. Wong's. I would be honored to work with you, Doctor. And frankly—I want to buy all your AI weapons. Every last one."
A hushed silence fell across the room.
Dr. Wong smiled faintly, folding his hands behind his back.
"It has also been my dream to work with you, Mr. President," he replied smoothly. "But for you to have access to all my AI creations, I request you hand me a high political position closer to yours. That way, I'll serve both you and my country alone."
Gasps echoed through the hall. The President's face turned thoughtful. He leaned in to whisper with his closest advisors. General Holtz narrowed his eyes. Murmurs and nods swept across the room. And then—agreement.
President Grant turned to Dr. Wong with a confident grin.
"Request granted," he said.
Dr. Wong's smile widened as he produced a sleek silver suitcase. Walking over to General Holtz, he handed it to him with both hands.
"This contains full access codes and control protocols to my AI systems," he said. "Let this be proof of my honesty... and transparency."
Holtz accepted the case cautiously, eyes narrowing in both curiosity and suspicion. But the moment was met with applause. The officials nodded in approval. Instructions were swiftly given to prepare secure testing fields for the AI arsenal.
That evening, the world exploded with headlines.
---
BREAKING NEWS: TECH-MAN MADE MINISTER OF STATE SECURITY AND TECHNOLOGY CONTROL
Dr.Richard Wong to be sworn in tomorrow morning. White House confirms he will work closely with President Marshall Grant to revolutionize national defense.
************************
Back at a quiet tech research lab across the Atlantic, three pairs of eyes were glued to the TV screen. The broadcast played on repeat.
Dr. Gavin Pierce stood frozen, remote in hand. Leo slumped on the couch beside Sophie, all three in utter disbelief.
"That guy…" Gavin muttered, pointing sharply at the screen. "I think he's up to something."
Leo's phone buzzed on the coffee table. He glanced down.
Caller ID: Ling ❤️
Without a word, Leo picked it up and retreated to his room. He shut the door behind him, took a breath, and answered.
"Hey Ling. How are you doing?"
"I'm fine, Leo. And you?"
"I'm all good... just missing to see your cute self."
"Awww. That's... sweet of you."
He chuckled. "So, what's up?"
"You know what, tomorrow's a big day for our family—and I wanted you to be part of it."
"That sounds really romantic. What's the big event then?"
"Well... apart from it being my birthday... it'll also be my dad's first day working with the US government."
Leo blinked. "U.S... Wait—WHAT!?"
>> TO BE CONTINUED…