Bab 274: Chapter 273: Good Luck and Good Things Happen Again and Again
**Mary Lambert Ballet School, U.K.**
A group of girls emerged from the dance hall, chatting and carrying their clothes as they grouped together to head home. At this moment, a middle-aged man in a trench coat approached them, stopping several of the girls.
"Is Miss Audrey Hepburn here?" Edward inquired, his gaze settling on the most graceful and slender girl among them.
Hepburn looked up, slightly startled by the recognition. "Sir, do you need something?"
The two girls next to Hepburn exchanged wary glances, unsure of Edward's intentions.
Edward smiled and produced a business card. "Hello, Miss Hepburn. I'm Edward, President of HD Film Company in the United States." He handed her the card.
"HD Film Company?" one of the girls exclaimed, recognizing the name. "The same company behind 'Red Dead Redemption,' 'Across the World,' 'Human Ghosts Are Coming,' and 'Song in the Rain'?"
Edward nodded, his smile widening. "Yes, that's us."
"And what brings you to us?" Hepburn asked, her eyes curious.
"I saw a video of yours where you introduced the scenery of Holland dressed as a stewardess. Your presence impressed me greatly. I came to the UK for business and took the opportunity to see you perform. Your talent confirmed my initial impression."
The girl next to Hepburn whispered, "Was that you watching us from below the stage?"
Hepburn's curiosity piqued. "What exactly are you proposing?"
"Would you be interested in joining HD Film Company? We'd like to offer you the chance to pursue a film career," Edward proposed.
Hepburn was taken aback. She had once been disheartened by her ballet teacher's comments about her height and age affecting her prospects as a prima ballerina. She had since considered acting but never imagined an opportunity like this.
A skeptical girl spoke up. "Is this really happening? Will a president personally sign an unknown girl?"
Edward chuckled. "I came to the UK for other reasons as well, and I didn't come alone because I didn't want to overwhelm you."
He gestured to two limousines parked nearby. Five or six people, including HD Intelligence staff, agents, lawyers, and representatives from the Global Times, emerged.
The girls' doubts vanished as they found the ballet school principal. Edward introduced himself and his intentions. Upon learning of Edward's identity and the potential contract for Hepburn, the principal was enthusiastic and offered to facilitate the process.
With the contract signed under the watchful eye of the lawyer, Hepburn became the first student from the school to secure a contract with a major Hollywood company. The principal proudly hung a photo of the signing on the school's wall, which later became a point of pride when Hepburn rose to fame.
After signing, Hepburn traveled to Los Angeles for training. Known for her clear features, graceful stature, and natural elegance, she was immediately recognized as a promising talent. Edward, impressed with her potential, directed her training to include various skills, from music and art appreciation to stage and film performance.
He did, however, suggest she fix her slightly irregular teeth. Hepburn complied, getting braces shortly thereafter.
---
**Rocky Mountain Holiday House**
In the cozy warmth of the cabin, Hardy and Ava enjoyed a peaceful morning, waking up naturally around ten-thirty. After a leisurely lunch, they dressed warmly and spent over two hours exploring the snowy forest, capturing memories on film.
Back at the cabin, they relaxed on the sofa, discussing various topics. Ava shared updates about the "Super Idol" audition show and new movie projects, while Hardy talked about business, including a ranch with over 2,000 Angus cattle.
They planned to visit the ranch next, and Hardy kept some business details private, as some matters were confidential and not meant for Ava's ears.
In the afternoon, Ava decided to write a song inspired by their relaxed time in the cabin. Hardy, finding himself with some free time, began working on a movie script.
He titled his script outline "The Seven Year Itch," inspired by Monroe's iconic work. Hardy quickly sketched out the story and its classic subway scene.
A month later, Monroe's "Super Idol" audition concluded with her securing third place and winning the audience's most popular singer title. Hardy believed Monroe's true strength lay in her visual appeal rather than her singing, and he planned to cast her in significant movie roles, including "The Seven Year Itch" and "As Passionately as Fire."
After finishing his script outlines, Hardy noticed Ava asleep on the sofa. He gently moved her to the bed and found part of her song written in the notebook. He placed the notebook aside and went to the kitchen to cook.
Ava awoke to the scent of steak, embraced Hardy from behind, and expressed her contentment. Hardy, always attentive, assured her that dinner would be ready soon.
After dinner, the couple enjoyed each other's company to the fullest before preparing to leave their vacation. Adams arrived to pick them up, and instead of returning to the mineral water company, they visited the ranch.
The ranch, equipped with wooden houses, a cowshed, and a forage warehouse, was well-prepared for the winter. Hardy inspected the facilities and then returned to Los Angeles.
Upon his return, Hardy received good news from Edward about Hepburn's signing and training, and his secretary reported additional positive updates:
- Occidental Petroleum had successfully struck oil, yielding high-quality results.
- Walsh Mining discovered a gold vein in Australia.
Hardy was delighted. The successful drilling and gold discovery were a testament to his good fortune, marking a series of positive developments in his ventures.
"Seems luck is on my side," Hardy thought, his mood buoyed by the good news.
---
Bab 275: Chapter 275: Entering Middle East Oil
**Long Beach**
Hardy and his team arrived at Long Beach, where Manager John greeted them with a respectful smile. "Boss, you're here," he said, opening Hardy's door.
"Take me to the oil well," Hardy instructed.
"Right away, Boss."
After a long journey, they reached the oil well site. The tall iron frame of the rig stood prominently, with workers busy around it and an oil lake nearby.
John introduced the site with enthusiasm. "Boss, we've struck a spouting well here. The oil quality is excellent, and the output is impressive—over 5,000 barrels per day."
Hardy calculated in his mind. With oil priced around $2.50 per barrel, and this rate expected to last for about ten years, the annual revenue from this well would be around $4.5 million. After deducting costs, the net profit would still exceed $2 million annually.
Though this amount was relatively modest for Hardy, he was pleased. The success of this well fueled his interest in expanding further into the oil industry. After returning to the company, he decided to contact Armand Hammer.
Upon connecting with Hammer, Hardy transitioned the conversation from small talk about a cow he had bred to a more pressing matter.
"Mr. Hammer, I recently acquired a small oil company, and we've just struck a well with a daily output of 5,000 barrels. The annual profit is around $4.5 million."
"Congratulations, Mr. Hardy," Hammer responded, though he was puzzled by the sudden shift in conversation.
"Thank you. I'm interested in having you partner with me in running this oil company," Hardy proposed directly.
Hammer was taken aback by the offer. "Why me? I have no prior experience in the oil industry."
Hardy explained, "You have extensive business experience, and I believe you'd be a valuable partner. I thought of you because of your expertise and insight. Are you interested?"
Hammer remained skeptical. "What kind of partnership are you proposing?"
"I'm offering you a 15% to 20% share in the company, along with 5% of the operational shares," Hardy detailed.
Hammer hesitated. "I need some time to think about it."
"Of course, take your time. I'll be waiting for your decision."
After ending the call, Hammer pondered the offer. Despite having no background in oil, he was intrigued by the potential of starting a new venture. His current ranch business was stable, but the prospect of a new challenge was appealing.
The next day, Hammer called Hardy with his decision. "I'm willing to give it a try."
"Great! I look forward to working with you. I'll see you in Los Angeles," Hardy responded with enthusiasm.
Hammer arrived in Los Angeles and, along with Hardy, visited the oil field once more. After inspecting the new well, Hammer agreed to invest. He purchased 15% of the shares for $850,000 and acquired 5% of the management shares, becoming the company's CEO.
In the oil company's office, the team discussed future plans. Hardy unfolded a map and pointed to a region labeled "Saudi-Kuwait Neutral Zone."
"This area, situated between Kuwait and Saudi Arabia, is currently a neutral zone with no clear sovereignty. It spans 2,200 square miles, and I believe it has significant oil potential. I'd like you, Hammer, to secure the mining rights here."
John and Hammer were surprised.
John remarked, "Saudi Arabia is dominated by major British oil companies and Mobil Oil. It might be difficult to penetrate this market."
Hammer added, "And with ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, it might not be the best time to invest."
Hardy remained confident. "The conflict doesn't concern us. As for the land, this neutral zone is unclaimed and ripe for exploration."
"Do you believe there is oil there?" Hammer asked.
"Previous explorations didn't find favorable conditions, but I have a strong intuition about this location," Hardy replied with a smile.
Hammer was skeptical but intrigued by Hardy's conviction.
Ultimately, Hammer agreed to Hardy's proposal. John would continue overseeing domestic operations while Hammer and his team prepared to negotiate mining rights with the Saudi royal family.
**Walsh Mining**
Meanwhile, Hardy turned his attention to Walsh Mining, which had been under his control for some time. Though the company had not been in the spotlight, Hardy had sent Columbus to explore potential mining sites in Australia.
Upon receiving news of a gold discovery, Hardy arranged for Columbus to return and report in person. Columbus arrived at Hardy Group's headquarters, looking like a rugged prospector, and presented several samples.
"This is gold ore," Columbus explained. "Our tests indicate a concentration of about 8 grams per ton, which qualifies as rich ore."
Hardy inquired about the reserves.
"We've drilled five exploratory holes, and preliminary estimates suggest over 200 tons of gold. This is a significant find, though more detailed exploration is needed to confirm the exact quantity."
Impressed, Hardy praised Columbus and promised substantial bonuses for the team.
"Thank you, Boss," Columbus said with a grin before leaving.
Hardy then briefed two vice presidents, Jason and Andrew.
"Jason, handle the purchase or lease of the land from the Australian government. Obtain the mining concession for the gold mine," Hardy instructed.
"Understood, Boss," Jason replied.
"Andrew, manage the financial side. Once Jason secures the mining license, announce the discovery to boost Walsh Mining's stock price," Hardy added.
Andrew nodded, ready to take action.
Hardy, holding 91% of Walsh Mining shares, knew the stock price would soar with the gold discovery. The combined efforts of his financial team and strategic publicity would ensure significant profits, even before the gold was mined.
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