Bab 291: Chapter 291: Princess Margaret
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David Rockefeller poured Hardy a glass of wine as they sat by the fireplace, engaging in conversation. David had called earlier, expressing a desire to have a thorough discussion with Hardy. Since Hardy had some free time, he accepted the invitation, looking forward to discussing matters with the future head of the Rockefeller family.
David took a sip and asked, "Hardy, what are your thoughts on America's future?"
Hardy smacked his lips, contemplating the question.
"This is a broad topic; I'm not sure where to begin," Hardy replied.
"Then let's focus on the economy. After all, we're both businessmen. What are your predictions for the U.S. economy?" David inquired.
Hardy pondered, organizing his thoughts and determining how much to reveal. He knew that while some insights could be shared, he couldn't disclose everything.
"Prosperity is certain," Hardy began.
"We won the Second World War. Although Britain and France were victors, their losses will accelerate their decline. The U.S. will rise as the new global hegemon."
"As for the economy, we're entering a golden era. The U.S. is the world's factory now, with industrial products and daily chemicals dominating global markets. This will drive growth across other industries like banking, insurance, and even entertainment."
Hardy glanced at David with a smile. "My Hardy Group is still young and lacks the foundation of established families like the Rockefellers or the DuPonts. I can't compete with you on traditional industries, so I must find other avenues."
David nodded, acknowledging Hardy's point. "You see growth in exports, which is why you're investing in shipping companies to capture part of that profit."
"Exactly. My current focus is on shipping, banking, and entertainment," Hardy confirmed. "But which industries do you think will prosper in the future?"
Hardy continued, "The oil industry will be highly profitable. With the rise of automobiles and the need for fuel, oil will remain essential. Additionally, petrochemical products will become increasingly valuable. No one knows oil like Rockefeller does."
David, who had long dominated the U.S. oil industry, was pleased with Hardy's insight. "We have the best drilling technology, storage, refining capabilities, and oil carriers. We can certainly collaborate."
"That's great to hear," Hardy said with a smile. "And in the future, as my oil company grows, your expertise will be invaluable."
David added, "Not only can we work together on oil, but also in areas like your HD Security company. We're interested in partnering with Manhattan Bank to support its expansion."
"Sounds promising," Hardy agreed.
David then shifted the conversation, "What are your political inclinations? Do you support the Democratic Party?"
Hardy shook his head with a smile. "I don't align with any political party. I'm an investor; I back what seems profitable. Johnson sought my help for a TV show to boost his campaign, and given the odds, it made sense to support him instead of Dewey."
David chuckled, "So it was a gamble?"
"Yes, and thankfully, it paid off," Hardy confirmed.
David noted, "Your investment in Johnson proved successful. If it weren't for your support, HD Security wouldn't have expanded its influence or achieved its current status."
Hardy nodded, recognizing the strategic value of his investments. "Johnson's presidency will benefit our business considerably."
David asked, "Which party do you think will win the next election?"
Hardy responded, "The Republican Party has a better chance. Johnson's victory was an anomaly."
David laughed heartily, "Indeed, it was a surprise."
"Will you support the Republicans next time?" David inquired.
"Why not? Investing in a winning party aligns with our principles," Hardy said with a grin.
David extended a proposal, "Let's work together in the next presidential election."
"Absolutely," Hardy agreed.
As they discussed political strategies, the focus shifted to their European delegation's recent activities. The British royal family had extended an invitation for a grand banquet at Buckingham Palace to honor the delegation. Hardy noted the slow pace of British royalty's actions but was prepared for the event.
On the day of the banquet, London's cold, dreary weather reminded Hardy of the gloomy streets depicted in detective stories. Despite the chill, Hardy was dressed impeccably in a tailored Zegna overcoat, designed especially for him.
Accompanied by over fifty members of the delegation, including prominent figures from Citigroup, Rockefeller Group, and California Group, Hardy entered Buckingham Palace. The grand hall was filled with British Prime Minister, cabinet members, nobles, and their families.
King George VI made a brief speech, followed by Princess Elizabeth's welcoming address. Hardy noted George VI's stuttering, a contrast to his famed wartime speeches, and observed that Princess Elizabeth, though still young at 22, was already stepping into significant royal responsibilities due to her father's declining health.
As Hardy scanned the room, he noticed Princess Margaret, the king's younger daughter, staring at him with a distinct look of hostility. Margaret, at just over 18, was known for her beauty and rebellious nature. Hardy was intrigued by her unspoken disdain.
Despite her royal status, Hardy wasn't intimidated. He regarded Margaret's behavior as typical of her reputedly spoiled and rebellious nature. He couldn't resist making a bold gesture: flashing a fierce grin and showing his canine tooth in a mockingly defiant manner.
Margaret's surprise at Hardy's audacious response was palpable. Hardy's dismissive attitude towards the royal princess reflected his confidence and resolve.
Thus, the encounter with Princess Margaret became an unexpected highlight of the evening, illustrating Hardy's unyielding self-assuredness amidst the grandeur of Buckingham Palace.
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Bab 292: Chapter 292: Beautiful Princess Margaret anger
At the grand banquet held at Buckingham Palace, the food was unremarkable, but few attended merely for the cuisine. After the meal, the guests moved to the dance floor.
The band played lively music, and while some joined the dance, others mingled and chatted. Princess Margaret, despite her extensive court training, remained seated with a sulky expression. She had refused several invitations to dance, clearly still upset with Hardy for his previous public humiliation.
In a bid for revenge, Margaret instructed a waitress to discreetly invite Jon Hardy to dance with her. Hardy, surprised by the unexpected invitation, accepted. As he approached, Margaret turned away, maintaining her stubborn stance.
"Beautiful Princess Margaret, may I have this dance?" Hardy asked, adhering to etiquette.
Margaret coldly replied, "I don't want to dance with you."
Her refusal was deliberate—she sought to embarrass Hardy. Understanding her intent, Hardy decided to handle the situation with both firmness and a hint of playful defiance.
Ignoring her protest, Hardy gently but decisively lifted Margaret from her seat and onto the dance floor. Initially shocked and struggling, Margaret was reminded by Hardy's whisper, "Behave yourself. If you make a scene, it will reflect poorly on your royal family."
Realizing the potential scandal, Margaret reluctantly complied and danced with Hardy. Despite her anger, her extensive training allowed her to follow Hardy's lead.
As they danced, Hardy enjoyed a subtle sense of triumph, while Margaret's irritation was evident. Despite her disdain, she adhered to her training, dancing with a stiff formality.
When the dance ended, Margaret retreated to her seat, her face flushed with embarrassment and anger. Hardy, savoring his small victory, raised his glass in a mocking salute. Margaret glared at him with fiery eyes.
Unable to contain her frustration, Margaret stormed out of the banquet hall. She fumed in a corridor before retreating to her room, where she vented her rage by beating the bed.
The chief guard, concerned by the commotion, entered and asked if she was alright. Margaret, unwilling to disclose the real cause of her distress, demanded information on Jon Hardy, wanting to know everything about him.
As she lay on her bed, seething with anger, Margaret resolved not to let Hardy's affront go unanswered. Her wounded pride fueled her determination for retribution.
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