Capital Gains — a short story.

-or- How business actually works.

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Alberto Maximilian enjoys the simple things. Today’s simple pleasure is staring out the windows of his penthouse. The view pleases him because he can see all the people below but doesn’t have to interact with them. He gets to observe them from upon high like he is a God. He likes that feeling as much as he likes this view. The only better view is that from the roof garden. Nothing is better than a roof garden here in Chicago. Especially one on Lake Shore Drive. One side of the condo he can observe the worldly ones and on the other — Lake Michigan as far as the eye can see. He can get his sunshine (vitamin D says the doc), fresh air (“Try touching grass, dad,” says his daughter), and nature exposure without the trouble of dealing with the people. No talking to the people. No smelling the people. No touching the people. The roof garden is all HIS. So, when in Chicago he enjoys his views. “Mr. Maximilian… Mr. Chase has arrived.” The butler announces his reason for being in Chicago today, a meeting with his business President.

“Show him into the study. I’ll be there shortly, Prescott.”

“It’s Presley, Sir.”

“Yes. Yes. Shortly Pres,” Alberto said as he waved his employee away. Back to the grind! He doesn’t see how his father had the energy to run Maxx Vantage Foods. He has no intention…