章 134: Chapter 134: Shocking Change—The Godfather Is Assassinated
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"Ring, ring, ring!"
The phone on the desk rang. Hardy answered, "This is Jon Hardy."
"Hardy, it's Siegel. I'm back in Los Angeles," Siegel's voice came through, tinged with a sense of defeat.
"Mr. Siegel, where are you now?" Hardy asked.
"I'm at Fred's place."
Even though the Flamingo Casino had failed, Siegel still had the support of the Jewish gang and the nominal Bill's gang.
"I'll be right over."
Hardy drove to Fred's house. It was similar to Taylor's residence—neither a manor nor a small villa, but comfortably situated.
In the study, Siegel was smoking a cigarette, looking more than a little despondent. From the beginning, he had been full of enthusiasm for the casino's construction, but a series of problems had led to its downfall. Even Siegel's tough demeanor couldn't mask his discomfort.
"There were so many issues on opening day. I had a feeling it was going to fail, and it did," Siegel sighed.
"It's not all bad. The casino is still there, and it can reopen in the future," Hardy offered in consolation.
"Yes, I plan to continue with the original plan. I believe the Flamingo will rise from the ashes," Siegel said determinedly.
Hardy had a hunch that Siegel might be seeking more financial help.
"Hardy, I've reached out to many friends, but no one can help. I hope you can assist me," Siegel said, his voice tinged with desperation.
"You need to borrow money?" Hardy asked.
"Lend me $2 million, and I'll use all the Flamingo shares I hold as collateral. Once the casino is completed, it will turn a profit, and I'll repay you swiftly," Siegel explained.
Hardy had guessed right. Siegel was asking for a substantial amount. With his current financial stability, Hardy could provide the funds, but he preferred not to handle it directly to avoid high taxes. Instead, he planned to have "Playboy" magazine invest the money.
"Mr. Siegel, I don't have that much liquid cash on hand right now. How about we arrange for 'Playboy' magazine to make the loan? I can have the necessary agreements drawn up," Hardy suggested.
Siegel agreed. "Thank you, Hardy."
"No thanks needed."
The mood in the room lightened, and Siegel expressed his admiration for "Playboy" magazine. "Your idea is brilliant. I've seen 'Playboy'—the photos are alluring, not overtly explicit, but still incredibly enticing."
Siegel continued, "It must be quite profitable?"
"We earn about $1 per issue," Hardy replied.
"That's impressive. I've invested over $8 million in the casino and am still losing money, while you've made a significant profit with 'Playboy.' That's remarkable," Siegel said with a touch of envy.
Siegel had come to respect Hardy's success and saw the relationship as mutually beneficial.
"Mr. Siegel, I have a manor that's been renovated but is still vacant. You're welcome to stay there," Hardy offered.
Siegel declined, "I'll return to Las Vegas once I have the money."
The following day, Siegel pledged his 43% stake in the Flamingo Casino, receiving the $2 million from "Playboy," and hurried back to Las Vegas. Hardy now owned 61% of the casino's shares, with the agreement stipulating that if Siegel did not repay the loan and interest within three years, the shares would permanently belong to "Playboy."
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March 13.
The annual Academy Awards were underway at the Sacred Citizen Auditorium in Los Angeles, a grander event than the Golden Globe Awards. Crowds and reporters gathered outside, cheering for the stars as they arrived.
Ingrid Bergman received adoring cheers, as did Vivien Leigh and Rita Hayworth. Hardy arrived with Ava Gardner, Elizabeth Taylor, and Heidi Ramah, each of them attracting attention.
The four entered the venue together. The audience particularly cheered for Ava Gardner, whose success in film and music had made her a standout. Heidi Ramah also had many admirers, thanks to "Playboy," though Elizabeth Taylor was less noted, given her recent lack of significant roles.
Inside, Tyler tugged on Hardy's sleeve and whispered, "Mr. Hardy, I want everyone to cheer for my name in the future."
Hardy smiled and whispered back, "I believe you'll achieve that, and I'll help you too."
The awards ceremony began. "Red Dead Redemption" was nominated for seven awards, including Best Actor, Best Picture, Best Screenplay, Best Original Song, Best Director, Best Photography, and Best Film Editing.
While the film didn't win Best Actor or Best Director, it did secure awards for Best Screenplay and Best Original Song. Hardy, representing HD Pictures, received applause as the studio gained further recognition.
Ava Gardner, holding the little golden man, expressed her gratitude and revealed that Hardy was behind the creation of "Scarborough Fair" and the whistle in "Red Dead Redemption."
The audience reacted with amazement, acknowledging Hardy's impressive achievements across multiple industries.
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At the end of the awards party, a grand reception took place. Hardy mingled with celebrities, many eager to meet the new Hollywood mogul. By the end of the night, Hardy was slightly inebriated.
He dropped Tyler and Heidi off before heading home with Ava. As they settled in, Ava looked at the two Oscars on the bed with a satisfied smile, her dream fulfilled.
The next morning, Ava was preparing breakfast when the phone rang. Hardy answered, still groggy.
"This is Hardy."
"Hardy, this is Mike. I need your help," came the urgent voice of Mike Corleone.
Hardy immediately perked up. "Mike, what happened?"
"Last night, my father was assassinated. Two killers shot him multiple times. He survived, but he's unconscious. I found out that someone is still trying to harm him. I need your help, Hardy," Mike said gravely.
Hardy was stunned. The godfather had been targeted. "Mike, don't worry. I'll be in New York tonight to protect Mr. Corleone. We can discuss the details when I arrive."
"Thank you, Hardy."
"No thanks needed. We're best friends."
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