Bab 65: Chapter 65 – Sorting Out Business
"Lanster, these photos are very valuable. You're responsible for investigating the identities of the people in these photos, including their backgrounds and family statuses. I believe they'll be useful in the future," Hardy instructed.
Lanster, understanding the gravity of the task, smiled and carefully stored the photos away. "Don't worry, I'll get on it right away."
Just then, Bill walked in, his eyes lighting up at the sight of the money on the table. He approached Hardy with enthusiasm. "Boss, do you have time to inspect our new properties?"
Hardy nodded. Bill had been instrumental in taking control of the Spanish gang and managing the transition. Hardy had been impressed with his swift progress and effective handling of the situation.
"Let's go," Hardy said.
Their first stop was Jiyuan, a three-story red brick building. They parked on the roadside and observed from the exterior.
"This building has 46 rooms. The first and second floors are for regular guests, while the third floor features VIP rooms, bars, dance halls, and playrooms. Currently, there are over a hundred girls working here. It's one of the best businesses in the area," Bill explained.
Simon had reported that Jiyuan brought in a net profit of about $100,000 per year.
"Do you want to go inside?" Bill asked.
"Not necessary. Let's move on to the next location," Hardy replied.
They proceeded to the underground boxing arena. It was a converted factory, now with a boxing ring at its center. The place was empty, and the facilities were simple.
"This used to be a factory before being transformed into an underground boxing ring. It hosts three to five matches each night. According to Simon, it generates between $100,000 and $150,000 in annual net profits," Bill said.
Underground boxing remained popular due to its no-rules format and high stakes. Hardy knew it attracted significant attention and betting.
They then drove to the Spanish Gang Casino. Hardy was familiar with this place; their initial big deal had taken place here. Previously bustling with activity, it now stood quiet, though the surrounding greenery was well-maintained.
They entered the casino, observing the changes. The old wooden doors had been replaced with robust golden metal gates. The interior had been renovated, with new security measures in place.
"This place could generate over $200,000 in annual net profits before," Bill mentioned.
"When do you plan to open it?" Bill inquired.
"Not yet. Let's wait a few more days. The situation still needs to stabilize, and the official scenario in Los Angeles isn't fully sorted out," Hardy said.
Bill hesitated before speaking. "Boss, I'd like to discuss Simon with you. He's been working diligently, particularly with the loan sharking business. He's handled it exceptionally well, and if we let him go, finding a replacement could be difficult."
Hardy listened attentively.
"Simon isn't a loyalist to Dani. He joined the Spanish gang out of necessity and has excelled in economic management. He's proven to be a rare talent," Bill continued.
Hardy's gaze was serious. "Bill, when using someone, you must first understand them clearly and second, be prepared for their potential betrayal. If you believe Simon is valuable and can handle betrayal, then keep him. Hiring is a complex process—finding the right fit is crucial."
Bill pondered Hardy's words before responding. "Boss, I want to keep Simon. If he betrays us in the future, I'm willing to accept the consequences."
Hardy smiled. "Then keep him."
As they left the casino, Bill pointed out, "The Spanish gang had 3 nightclubs and 32 bars. Previously, they supplied drinks to these venues, marking up prices as a form of protection fee. Unlike the Jewish gang, which smuggled their own drinks and sold them at fair prices, the Spanish gang's method was more exploitative."
"Simon told me that the annual profit from this scheme was around $100,000. We've switched to sourcing from the Jewish gang's warehouse, resulting in a significant profit increase. I'm considering discussing a price adjustment to align with the Jewish gang's rates."
Hardy was impressed with Bill's foresight. "That's a good idea. Go ahead with your plan."
"Simon also mentioned that the gang collected protection fees from various businesses like restaurants and barbershops. The total income from this was only $10,000 to $20,000 per year, and it was widely disliked," Bill added.
"I propose we eliminate the protection fee but leverage those businesses for additional revenue," Hardy suggested.
"How so?" Bill asked, curious.
"We can install slot machines or pinball machines in their stores. Many customers frequent these establishments and would be willing to play these machines. This could generate a steady income," Hardy explained.
"We'll supply the machines, exempt the businesses from protection fees, and share 20% of the profits with them for maintenance."
Bill was initially skeptical. "Can this really be profitable?"
Hardy reassured him. "Absolutely. It's a win-win—businesses are happy, we gain revenue, and it's less conspicuous than traditional protection fees."
Bill nodded, seeing the potential. "Understood. I'll get started on this."
The plan was set in motion, marking a new phase in the reorganization and expansion of their operations.
Bab 66: Chapter 66 – Seeking Cooperation
Bill was skeptical about whether slot machines could be a profitable venture.
Hardy, however, was confident. "Have people count how many places on our site can accommodate slot machines and pinball machines," he instructed.
"Nightclubs, bars, restaurants, hotel lobbies, barbershops, small shops, grocery stores—anywhere there are patrons," Hardy elaborated.
Bill agreed and got to work.
Two days later, the numbers were in: there were over 380 suitable locations within the Spanish Gang's territory.
"The business owners are on board. They're willing to host the machines, especially since there's no protection fee and they stand to gain from the profits," Bill reported.
"The main concern now is whether the machines will be profitable and if the police might intervene," Bill added.
Gambling is legal only in Nevada, home to Las Vegas. In other states, gambling, including slot machines and pinball machines, is generally illegal. However, this type of gambling is relatively minor. The police typically only confiscate the machines rather than penalize gamblers or shop owners.
"Start with 50 machines and distribute them. We'll evaluate the results in a week and decide the next steps based on the income," Hardy directed.
Bill agreed and left to carry out the plan.
In San Francisco, Bill purchased 20 slot machines and 30 pinball machines, costing $95 and $30 each, respectively. These were shipped to Los Angeles and placed in various bars, barbershops, and convenience stores.
Bill monitored the situation daily.
In a bar, patrons were intrigued by the slot machine. "Are the police going to care about this?" one asked.
"What does it matter? It's just for fun," another responded, inserting a dime into the machine.
As the machine whirred and stopped on three bells, a cascade of coins spilled out. Excitement ensued, drawing more patrons and increasing the bar's lively atmosphere.
In a barbershop, two pinball machines were installed. Customers waiting for their turns played the machines, exchanging iron beads for a cent each. The machines became a hit, subtly blending gambling with entertainment.
One week later, Bill collected the data. He rushed to Hardy with the report, visibly excited.
"Boss, look at these numbers! We're set to make a fortune!"
The 20 slot machines had each made over $100 in profit, covering the initial investment in just one week. The 30 pinball machines each earned over $30 weekly.
"Boss, Simon calculated that with 200 slot machines and 400 pinball machines, the annual profit would exceed $1.6 million," Bill reported.
"This is more profitable than dealing drugs," Bill added.
"However, some machines were confiscated by the police. The key issue now is handling the police," Bill noted.
Hardy considered this. "Bill, are you willing to meet with the chief of the Los Angeles Police Department?" Hardy asked with a smile.
Bill was taken aback. As a gang member, he naturally harbored a deep-seated apprehension toward the police.
"You want me to bribe him?" Bill asked.
"Exactly. Establish a connection and preemptively address any potential issues. This will ensure the slot machine business can thrive," Hardy explained.
Bill, despite his fears, agreed. "I'll arrange the meeting."
Hardy, confident in Bill's determination, prepared him for the meeting.
They discussed strategy for over two hours, focusing on how to handle the situation with the police.
Ed, the 46-year-old police chief with two years in his role, had an extensive career and strong connections. His current mistress, Rila, was a high-profile woman he was involved with, a fact that contributed to his arrogance.
As Ed left his mistress and headed toward his car in the dark, he was approached by Bill, who introduced himself.
"Hello, Director Ed. I'm Bill Pitt," Bill said with a smile.
Ed, suspicious, replied coldly, "And who might you be? What do you want?"
"I'd like to discuss something with you," Bill said.
"Are you causing trouble?" Ed asked.
Bill simply replied, "I'm here to resolve issues."
The two got into Ed's car. Bill presented an envelope filled with $10,000. Ed, experienced in such matters, immediately recognized the bribe attempt.
"You're trying to bribe the chief of police. That's a felony with a heavy prison sentence," Ed warned.
Bill, unfazed, introduced himself as Dani's nephew, claiming Dani had retired and passed the Spanish Gang's control to him.
Ed's expression shifted from surprise to concern. He realized the implications of what Bill was saying. Dani had always been manipulative and ruthless. The sudden shift in power and the fact that Dani had supposedly retired was suspect.
"I don't know Dani. Leave now," Ed ordered, preparing to investigate Bill's claims.
Bill was prepared for this resistance. He presented photos showing Ed with various women, indicating potential scandals.
Ed's face paled as he recognized the images from his past.
Bill made it clear, "I know you carry a gun, but we have four men in the car behind us. Any attempt to resist, and they'll make sure you don't get out of this car alive."
Ed, realizing the gravity of the situation, relented.
"What do you want?" Ed asked through gritted teeth.
Bill smiled. "It's simple: cooperation."
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