Capítulo 327: Chapter 327: Making Money Under the British Flag
After Hardy's discussion with Princess Elizabeth, he bid farewell, and Taylor naturally followed him, with her belongings still in Princess Margaret's bedroom.
Hardy accompanied them, and Taylor packed up her things. A royal servant helped with the task while Margaret approached Hardy, who was seated in the living room enjoying tea. She sat down beside him.
"I envy Taylor," Margaret said quietly.
Hardy looked at her with curiosity. He understood why Margaret might envy Taylor—Taylor enjoyed a freedom that Margaret felt she lacked.
Hardy took a sip of his tea but remained silent.
Margaret, with a hint of frustration, asked, "Aren't you curious about why I envy her?"
"Why?" Hardy inquired.
Margaret's annoyance was palpable. "Because I feel trapped. I spend all my time in the palace, adhering to endless etiquette and fulfilling others' expectations. I feel like a puppet, and I can't find meaning in this life."
Hardy was taken aback. It was surprising to hear Margaret articulate these feelings. Many people viewed the royal life as glamorous, but in reality, the members were bound by strict rules and could not deviate.
Hardy didn't have a solution to Margaret's problem. He wasn't keen on getting involved. While Margaret was beautiful, Hardy had no personal interest in her. Dealing with a royal princess, especially a British one, could be more trouble than it was worth. His preference was to seek relationships that were less complicated.
Margaret looked at Hardy with pleading eyes. "Can you help me?"
Hardy considered her request. "If you want more freedom, you could undertake public roles. For example, you could represent the country on overseas visits or act as a charity ambassador. There are many ways to engage with the world beyond the palace."
Margaret frowned. "I've done some of that with my sister, and it's not particularly exciting."
"In addition to charity work, you might participate in international events, like fashion weeks or jewelry exhibitions. It's far better than being confined to the palace."
Margaret nodded. "That sounds interesting, but traveling can be costly, and my sister restricts my outings."
"You could earn money yourself. You could endorse brands or become a spokesperson. For instance, the Hardy Group has several luxury brands. We could arrange for you to be a brand ambassador."
Hardy's offer was strategic; turning Princess Margaret into a spokesperson for his luxury brands would be advantageous. Historically, British royalty had greatly influenced luxury brands.
Margaret's eyes lit up. "That sounds promising."
"Excellent. The shopping street at my Las Vegas casino is not yet completed, but it will be by next year. We'll hold a grand fashion show and invite you. The casino has many attractions, far surpassing the nightclub you visited yesterday."
Margaret agreed eagerly. "Deal!"
As Taylor completed her packing, including the things she bought in London, she prepared to leave. Margaret felt a pang of sadness at her departure. She had grown fond of Taylor during their time together.
---
Princess Elizabeth, after her conversation with Hardy, informed Prime Minister Clement Attlee about the discussions. Attlee, who was concerned about the country's finances, was keen on finding solutions. The idea of selling the Cayman Islands, a small territory under Jamaican jurisdiction, was intriguing but contentious.
Prime Minister Attlee met with Princess Elizabeth to discuss the potential sale. They deliberated over Hardy's proposal:
"Hadi has promised that the Cayman Islands will remain part of the UK. This could benefit us, especially with Jamaica's struggle for independence. If not carefully managed, the Cayman Islands might seek independence too."
"However, Hardy demands complete autonomy."
"Are there resources in the Cayman Islands? Not much. It might be more about strategic positioning and tourism. The US would likely oppose any military base there."
Attlee and Elizabeth considered alternative solutions. Offering Hardy British citizenship and a noble title could be a compromise, allowing him to become Governor of the Cayman Islands and making it a dominion.
"The price is a concern. Everything has a cost. We need to determine an appropriate figure."
---
Hardy received an invitation from the British Minister of Finance, Lambert, to visit his estate. He anticipated an important discussion.
"Hello, Minister Lambert. It's good to see you again," Hardy greeted as they shook hands.
"We're pleased to have you in the UK, Mr. Hardy. I understand you've invested significantly in Hong Kong. If any issues arise there, we are ready to assist," Lambert said with a smile.
After some pleasantries, the conversation turned to the main topic.
"Mr. Hardy, you're interested in purchasing the Cayman Islands?" Lambert asked.
"Yes," Hardy replied. "I'm looking to develop it into a tourist destination for Americans."
Given the sensitivity around casinos, framing it as a tourist project was more suitable.
"After careful consideration, we are prepared to agree to your request. However, there are conditions. You must promise never to leave the Commonwealth."
Hardy nodded in agreement. He understood that autonomy for a small island was essentially the same as independence in practice. The island would benefit from the British name, and it was advantageous for Hardy to operate under this banner.
"That's acceptable. I agree to the condition," Hardy confirmed.
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