Bab 219: Chapter 219: The San Francisco Mafia Family Shocked
Hardy had just set down his wine glass when Ava Gardner entered the room. She had been on the phone for a long time—twenty minutes, to be precise.
She walked over to Hardy, knelt beside him on the carpet, and rested her head on his thigh, looking up with a hint of sadness in her eyes.
"What's wrong, Ava?" Hardy asked, puzzled.
"I feel very lucky," Ava said softly.
"Why do you say that all of a sudden?" Hardy inquired, surprised. He wondered if something had happened during her phone call.
"It was Lana Turner. She called me crying, saying she had been attacked by a man who had pretended to be a respectable person. He turned out to be a thug and beat her up when she tried to end their relationship. He even threatened to ruin her if she left him. She's very upset and scared," Ava explained.
Hardy frowned slightly. He knew Lana Turner was an MGM contract actress known for her beauty and talent. Ava and Lana were good friends, and Hardy had met her at the MGM Cocktail Party. The two women had grown close and spent time together.
"Do you know the man's name?" Hardy asked.
"Johnny," Ava replied.
Johnny, the bodyguard of a gang boss? Hardy didn't recognize the name.
"Don't worry, I'll help her," Hardy reassured Ava, gently touching her face.
Ava smiled with relief and affectionately rubbed her cheek against Hardy's thigh. She felt reassured by his support.
Hardy picked up the phone and called Bill.
"Bill, do you know a Johnny who works for a gang boss?"
"Johnny? I don't know off the top of my head, but I'll check."
Five minutes later, the phone rang again. Hardy, who was now lying on Ava's lap, answered.
Bill informed Hardy that Johnny used to be part of the Selton family in San Francisco. He had left the gang and was living in Hollywood, using his connections and charm to exploit wealthy women.
"So, he's a former gangster turned gold digger. Find out more about him; he might be useful to us in the future," Hardy said.
"Understood, boss," Bill replied.
Hardy hung up the phone and looked at Ava. "Rest assured, Johnny won't bother your friend anymore."
Ava's face lit up with joy, and she kissed Hardy. Feeling elated, she whispered, "Shall we go swimming?"
The manor's pool was heated year-round, making it perfect for a relaxing swim. They enjoyed their time in the water, creating ripples in the tranquil setting.
The next day, Ava visited Lana Turner, who showed clear signs of abuse—bruised arms and a distressed appearance. Lana embraced Ava, crying.
"Ava, help me. Johnny is a monster. I want to leave him, but he's threatening to kill me."
"I've already informed Hardy. He said he'll handle it," Ava comforted her friend.
Lana clung to Ava, sobbing.
From that day on, Lana Turner never saw Johnny again. About a week later, she read in the newspaper that Johnny had died in a car accident. The report stated that a speeding car had hit him; the driver was deemed mostly at fault but had a minimal financial burden due to insurance.
When Lana saw the news, she initially thought of Hardy but quickly dismissed it, convincing herself that Johnny's death was divine retribution.
Bill later updated Hardy, "Boss, Johnny gave us valuable information. We've learned a lot about the Selton family, and we're in a stronger position now."
"Good. It's time to act. I'll have Henry send a confidential letter to the FBI," Hardy said.
Two days later, the San Francisco FBI branch received an anonymous letter detailing that Lebselton, the Selton family patriarch, was hiding in a secret manor in Florence, Italy. The FBI director immediately reported it to headquarters.
"Didn't the intelligence say he was in Colombia?" the supervisor asked.
"According to the letter, he left Colombia because he didn't like the food and returned to his hometown in Italy. The address is very specific," the San Francisco Branch Director replied.
"Notify the Italians and ask for their assistance," the supervisor instructed.
The Italian police, after a two-day delay, raided the manor but found no sign of Lebselton. He had already fled to the Bahamas upon receiving a tip-off.
In the Bahamas, Lebselton, furious and disheveled, roared, "Who leaked my location? We need to find out!"
The investigation revealed that the anonymous letter had been sent by someone within his own organization. The next day, Yuka, a small leader in the Selton family, was shot on the street.
Lebselton, disturbed by the events, sent his confidant to investigate. They discovered a box in Yuka's house containing $25,000 in cash, a property deed, and a note revealing that Trotto, the second-in-command, had betrayed him to the FBI.
Lebselton was enraged by Trotto's betrayal and vowed revenge. In a chaotic power struggle within the Selton family, Trotto faced attempts on his life, but he managed to survive and began consolidating his control.
As Hardy prepared for further action, he smiled slightly at the unfolding drama. "Looks like Trotto's diary habit has become quite useful," he mused.
In San Francisco, a fierce gun battle erupted within the Selton family. The police, using their usual method, surrounded the area and let the factions fight it out while keeping a safe distance.
Hardy, informed by Henry of the escalating violence, gave the green light for action. "Tell Bill to proceed."
As Hardy returned to his room, he found Isa waiting for him. He joined her in bed, ready for a well-deserved rest after a day of high-stakes maneuvers.
Bab 220: Chapter 220: Takeover of the San Francisco Site
The San Francisco shootout continued with relentless intensity. In the heat of the moment, both the Selton family and their rivals were driven to a frenzied state of violence, losing sight of any consequences.
Police forces arrived on the scene, joined by HD Security. The San Francisco TV station, in collaboration with ABC, sent a cameraman to cover the dramatic events. The Global Times and other newspaper reporters also rushed to the location.
Gunfire echoed in the distance, fluctuating between bursts of intensity and periods of calm. Suddenly, a large explosion shook the block, sending a plume of flames into the sky. Photographers and reporters scrambled to capture the scene.
Inside the HD Security command vehicle, Police Chief Brown and HD Security Director Rossi discussed the situation.
"Director Brown, the internal conflict within the Selton family could trigger a chain reaction among other gangs. We should consider increasing patrols to prevent any opportunistic violence," Rossi suggested.
"You mean other gangs might try to claim the Selton family's territory now that they're weakened?" Chief Brown asked.
"Exactly," Rossi confirmed.
Chief Brown agreed, "We should definitely consider that. After we handle today's events, we'll bolster patrols. Anyone who tries to take advantage will face severe consequences."
"That's my thinking too, for the safety of San Francisco," Rossi said with a smile.
As the gunfire diminished, Chief Brown ordered the police and security personnel to enter the conflict zone. Reporters were stopped at the perimeter, informed that it was too dangerous to enter until the situation was under control.
Gunfire resumed briefly as the police and security teams moved in, but it was quickly quelled. After about twenty minutes, the gunfire ceased. The security team emerged, some apprehending prisoners, others tending to the wounded, and others carrying out the deceased. Among the casualties was the second-in-command of the Selton family, who had been fatally shot.
Reporters rushed to photograph the aftermath. Chief Brown, now confident the situation was under control, adjusted his uniform and addressed the press.
"Today, we witnessed a gang conflict. The exact cause is still under investigation, but initial reports indicate over 60 dead and dozens wounded, with more than 80 arrests," Chief Brown stated.
He reassured the public, "The San Francisco Police Department is fully capable of ensuring public safety. We will continue our investigation and bring those responsible to justice."
When asked about HD Security's role, Chief Brown praised them, saying, "HD Security has been instrumental. Their quick response and strong combat effectiveness have significantly supported the San Francisco Police Department. They are a vital part of maintaining city safety."
The following day, newspapers reported on the "San Francisco Gangster Shootout." Journalists had quickly pieced together the details, particularly noting the high number of living Selton family members who provided insight into the conflict.
The New York Times reported:
"The San Francisco Mafia's Selton family experienced internal strife. The patriarch, Leb Selton, who was wanted by the FBI, fled, leading to a violent clash between factions. Both sides suffered heavy casualties."
"The San Francisco Police Department intervened with substantial forces, controlling the scene and arresting numerous Selton family members. The gang is now effectively dismantled."
The Global Times added:
"In this conflict, HD Security played a critical role. They neutralized stubborn gangsters on the spot with decisive force."
"San Francisco Police Chief Brown noted that HD Security's collaboration has been exemplary. Their support is crucial for maintaining public order."
Leb Selton, unaware of the events in San Francisco, was enjoying a serene yacht trip in the Bahamas. He relaxed with a cigar, oblivious to the chaos unfolding back home.
As Selton's yacht approached another vessel, he noticed a group of young men on deck, but paid them little mind. Suddenly, these men brandished 60mm rocket launchers and fired at Selton's yacht.
The yacht erupted in flames. Despite Selton's cries for help, the yacht was soon reduced to wreckage, sinking with Selton and his bodyguards into the sea. The attackers then fled, leaving only debris behind.
With the Selton family's collapse, the power vacuum left their former territory up for grabs. Various factions began to eye the opportunity.
The Tangren Gang considered taking over but decided against it due to prior warnings from the Los Angeles Gang. The Hall Master advised caution, acknowledging the heightened security presence and potential dangers of encroaching on the Selton's former territory.
Some smaller gangs, like the Mexican gang, attempted to seize the Selton family's assets but were quickly deterred by HD Security's overwhelming presence.
Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Gang swiftly moved to consolidate control over the Selton family's businesses. From casinos to smuggling operations, the takeover was executed smoothly, with minimal resistance.
The rapid and efficient consolidation of the Selton family's assets drew shock from other Mafia families, particularly Emilio Basini of the Basini family. His surprise and frustration were evident, knowing the Selton family's collapse would disrupt his long-term plans on the West Coast.
Determined to respond, Basini resolved to convene a meeting of the Mafia Committee to address the shifting power dynamics.
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