Professor William glanced at Jason, his expression subtly conflicted. Mayor Harris, meanwhile, fixed his gaze on Jason with sharp intensity — the kind of look that could pierce through a man's confidence.
Jason, however, remained composed. A faint smile rested on his lips, as though he hadn't realized just how loaded his last words had been.
Officially, Mayor Harris had invited Jason to discuss the Bayline District redevelopment — but deep down, he hoped the young investor would somehow complete the massive commercial project within his term. Of course, such thoughts could never be spoken aloud.
And yet, Jason had just said it outright — two years and eleven months. Not as a boast, but as a quiet promise.
This wasn't a naive young businessman talking — it was someone who understood politics and optics down to the finest detail.
There's a saying among city planners: "A single project can make a mayor."A large-scale mixed-use district brings hundreds of millions in tax revenue, creates thousands of jobs, and ignites an entire region's economy.
Major developers like Brookfield or Simon Property Group often complete such projects within two to three years, ensuring the ribbon-cutting happens before the next election cycle. People call it "developer speed," but the insiders know the deeper truth — it's political timing.
And the Bayline Redevelopment Project that Jason Carter was proposing wasn't just another shopping complex — it was an urban landmark, expected to generate several times more tax revenue and employment opportunities than a regular mall. Combined with its proximity to the coastal green corridor, it could transform the city's tourism and economy entirely.
Mayor Harris instantly recognized the subtext behind Jason's words. The young man had just promised to deliver a legacy — one that would cement Harris's administration in the city's history books.
It might have sounded audacious, even risky, but Jason clearly knew what he was doing. Bringing along Professor William, who owed him a favor and held significant local credibility, made the move even smarter. It was bold, yes — but flawlessly calculated.
Mayor Harris studied Jason in silence for a few seconds. The young man's steady gaze and calm composure left no hint of nervousness. Finally, the mayor's lips curved into a faint smile.
"The sooner it's built," Harris said slowly, "the sooner this city will see growth — more tourism, more jobs, and better opportunities for our people. Just make sure you don't sacrifice quality for speed. I don't want this city remembered for a rushed or faulty project."
Harris didn't repeat the "two years and eleven months" figure — but Jason wasn't foolish enough to bring it up again either. They both understood perfectly well what had been said.
Jason nodded smoothly. "Of course. Speed doesn't come from cutting corners — it comes from efficient coordination and smart resource integration. Quality and speed can go hand in hand when managed correctly."
He emphasized the words "resource integration" with deliberate clarity.
Harris's expression softened, a note of approval flickering in his eyes. "Judging by your blueprints, environmental reports, and engineering oversight plans, it's clear you came well-prepared — and you have the financial strength to back it up. I see your sincerity, Jason. And frankly… I believe you can do it."
"Regarding resource integration, the city administration will fully cooperate with you," Mayor Harris said. "We'll make sure the necessary departments work with your team to get this project moving as quickly as possible."
Jason nodded respectfully. "Thank you, Mayor. I won't let down your trust — or the expectations of the people of the City. I'll deliver results that everyone can be proud of."
Mayor Harris leaned back slightly, thoughtful. "This area used to be part of the old industrial district. It has a great location, but no real identity. Have you thought of a name for it?"
Olivia had already gathered a list of suggestions from her team, but Jason smiled and replied, "Not yet. Why don't you name it, Mayor?"
Harris chuckled softly, then nodded. "I've been to that part of the bay before. One night, the sky was clear, the water was calm, and the stars reflected on the surface like you could reach out and grab them. How about calling it Starlight Bay?"
He paused, his voice softening slightly. "That name also carries a hope of mine — that we'll preserve the environment so future generations can still see the stars reflected on the water every clear night."
Jason's eyes brightened. He had only asked out of courtesy, but he hadn't expected such a fitting and poetic name. "Thank you, Mayor. 'Starlight Bay' — I like it very much. I'll make sure it lives up to that name."
Harris nodded approvingly. "If there's nothing else, I won't keep you. If you run into any procedural issues, just ask Professor William. That old man knows more about city operations than most of my staff."
Jason didn't linger. He rose to his feet and said, "Then I won't take up more of your time, Mayor."
With that, he left the office promptly, his pace calm but confident. The meeting had gone exactly as he'd hoped. On the surface, the mayor hadn't committed to much — but Jason understood the unspoken message perfectly.
After Jason left, Professor William finished the last sip of his tea and stood as well.
Harris looked up and asked, "Professor, that young man… he's not simple. Do you know anything about his background?"
Professor William shook his head. "Not much. I heard him mention once that his donation to Bayview University wasn't his own idea — it was his family's."
At that, both men fell silent. Harris frowned slightly. Jason's parents were known to be ordinary people from upstate — nothing about them suggested immense wealth. "His family's idea"? Even the ghosts wouldn't believe that story.
After a moment, Harris said quietly, "You know, you could very well be the next mayor. Wouldn't it be better for you if Jason's project dragged into the next term?"
Professor William smiled faintly. "Come on now, Mayor — you're thinking too politically. If this project benefits the city and helps our people, the sooner it's finished, the better for everyone."
He headed for the door, but before stepping out, he added casually, "Besides, if Jason Carter can complete Starlight Bay within three years, I wonder what he'll be capable of building in five."
Harris paused, watching the professor leave. The thought lingered in his mind. It made sense, but for now, his focus was the present — and his priority was Starlight Bay.
The very next morning, a memo was circulated throughout city departments and planning offices:
1. A fast-track approval channel would be established to reduce unnecessary steps and accelerate the progress of Starlight Bay. All procedures were to be simplified within the bounds of the law.
2. The Starlight Bay Project would be incorporated into the city's urban renewal and waterfront revitalization plans, qualifying for relevant incentives and tax benefits.
3. The project was approved to include mixed-use developments — commercial, hotel, and residential components — to ensure profitability and sustainability.
4. The city government would invest in supporting infrastructure, including new roads, parking structures, public transit hubs, and utility upgrades.
5. The City Investment Bureau would take the lead in partner outreach, helping attract major domestic and international brands to establish their presence in Starlight Bay.
6. Finally, Starlight Bay was to be positioned as a landmark destination — the city's new symbol of progress and innovation.
These measures could be summed up in two words: Priority Support.
Within hours, every department understood the message — this project was now a top-tier city initiative.
Developers, investors, and suppliers across Bayview — all of whom had been watching Jason Carter closely — were left stunned.
One quick inquiry revealed that Jason had visited the mayor's office just yesterday with Professor William, and by morning, an official "priority directive" had been issued.
The city's financial and real estate circles immediately understood what that meant.
If Jason Carter had previously been a figure to be cautious around, now he was someone no one dared to offend — unless they were willing to go head-to-head with both Mayor Harris and the leading candidate for the next mayor, Professor William.
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