Capítulo 268: Chapter 268: Domineering President
Monroe was caught off guard, her body tense and her eyes wide with panic. The situation had escalated so suddenly that she hadn't had time to prepare.
She hesitated to wake Hardy. As one of Hollywood's most powerful figures and a key player in the business world, his presence commanded respect. Monroe knew she couldn't risk upsetting him.
After several failed attempts to free herself from Hardy's grip, she realized it was pointless. His hold was firm. Eventually, she gave up and lay down beside him, feeling his strong arm around her and his thigh pressing against her. Despite the awkwardness, the closeness brought an unexpected sense of security.
Monroe's past had been turbulent. Raised by a mentally ill mother and shuffled between foster homes, she had endured a series of traumatic experiences. Her life had been marked by instability and loneliness, leaving her feeling insecure and unworthy.
Now, lying beside Hardy, she felt an unusual sense of safety. It was a strange comfort, but it was real. Perhaps it was because Hardy had given her this job when she was struggling or because his powerful presence made her feel protected.
Monroe's thoughts swirled as she tried to make sense of her feelings. She wondered if it was his strength, his wealth, or simply the warmth of his embrace that made her feel secure. Even his large hand resting on her chest, radiating heat, seemed to offer a comforting sense of protection.
Her life had been a series of hardships, and Hardy's influence had brought a glimmer of stability. The idea of being close to someone so powerful was both alluring and confusing.
Eventually, the alcohol took its toll, and Monroe fell asleep beside Hardy, feeling a mix of safety and uncertainty.
Outside the room, the assistant and two bodyguards waited anxiously. When Monroe didn't emerge, they decided to check on her. The bodyguard opened the door quietly and peered inside. The sight of Hardy and Monroe in a close embrace confirmed that Hardy was safe.
Relieved, the bodyguard closed the door and signaled to the others that everything was fine.
---
Monroe awoke in the early hours of the morning, disoriented and alone. She quickly remembered the events of the previous night and saw that it was 3:30 AM. Hardy's hand was still on her, but he had shifted positions. Carefully, Monroe extricated herself from his grasp and dressed.
She slipped out of the room, heading to her own quarters on a lower floor. When she opened her door, her roommate stirred and asked why she was so late. Monroe forced a smile and brushed it off, saying she had been delayed.
Alone in her room, Monroe felt a pang of coldness despite the warmth of the blanket. She missed the feeling of Hardy's embrace and regretted leaving. She tossed and turned, unable to find the comfort she had felt before.
---
The next day, Hardy awoke feeling refreshed. He had enjoyed the closeness of Monroe's presence, even if the night had been blurry due to alcohol. He was aware of Monroe's departure but wasn't concerned. To him, personal connections were not something to be pursued lightly.
Hardy's approach to relationships was straightforward. He did not believe in pursuing or begging for affection. He would take what he wanted and move on.
The previous night's events had stirred Hardy's interest. The fact that Monroe had left made him more resolute. If anyone tried to interfere, he would handle it decisively.
---
In the political arena, Hardy's challenge to Dewey had created a buzz. President Johnson's campaign team was jubilant, having crafted a compelling challenge for a live TV debate. The media reports stirred public interest:
*Global Times:* "President Johnson has invited Dewey to a live TV debate, covering topics such as governance, economic policy, and foreign relations. This debate promises to offer a clearer picture of each candidate's vision for the country. Dewey's response is eagerly awaited."
*Los Angeles Times:* "President Johnson's proposal for a TV debate shows his readiness to confront Dewey directly. The question now is whether Dewey will accept this challenge or retreat."
*Washington Post:* "Johnson's challenge comes after Dewey's 'Black Gold Incident,' which has damaged his public image. A debate could be a pivotal moment, offering Dewey a chance to recover or further tarnishing his reputation."
Dewey, currently in Detroit, was unsettled by the challenge. Once confident in his debating skills, he now faced a crisis of confidence due to the fallout from the 'Black Gold Incident.' He feared that a debate could expose his weaknesses further.
In the face of mounting pressure and criticism, Dewey regretted not accepting the challenge sooner. His hesitation had resulted in a loss of credibility, leaving him with dwindling support.
The public's perception of Dewey continued to decline, leaving his campaign in a precarious position.
Estado de energía semanal
-- Ranking de
Poder 
-- Piedra de
Poder