章 109: Chapter 109: One Face Was Shown
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After taking a shower, Hardy and Ava changed clothes and went downstairs to the restaurant for dinner.
"How was the rehearsal at the New York Grand Theater today?" Hardy asked Ava.
"It's the music hall of my dreams. Saliak, Tebaldi, Di Stefano, Lili Lehman, and many other famous artists have performed there. I never imagined I'd get to perform there one day. Just thinking about it makes me excited," Ava replied with enthusiasm.
As they ate, the conversation flowed, but Hardy made no mention of Robin.
Back at the hotel, Ava went to the bedroom to apply makeup. Hardy picked up the phone and called Mike. "Mike, I'm afraid I won't be able to accompany you to the bank to sign the loan tomorrow."
"What's going on?" Mike asked, surprised.
"We need to teach someone in Los Angeles a lesson," Hardy said.
Mike was taken aback. "Who are we teaching a lesson to? What happened?"
Hardy explained the situation with Robin. "The singer invited for the movie promotion saw Ava at the rehearsal yesterday and wanted to speak to her. Ava refused and was threatened that her performance might be affected. I think we need to deal with this."
Mike was speechless. It was clear Hardy was playing a game. Mike knew Hardy didn't really need to sign the contract; as chairman, Mike could sign it himself. But he valued Hardy's support, and they had become close friends.
"Hardy, Los Angeles is quite far from New York. There's no need to call people from there. Let me handle this," Mike said.
"You handle it? That's against your principles," Hardy replied.
Mike had previously told Hardy he was reluctant to use gangster tactics for solving problems. "I said I don't like the gangster's aggressive style, but that doesn't mean I won't help a friend being bullied."
"Alright then, I'm heading to bed," Hardy said with a smile.
Mike hung up the phone, feeling both amused and frustrated. Hardy had turned a request into a form of begging, a move that seemed shameless.
Mike considered calling Clemenza, one of the Godfather's trusted men. Clemenza, despite his appearance as a short, plump man, was the most formidable figure in the Corleone family.
"Uncle Clemenza, this is Mike. I need your help with something," Mike said.
"Mike, just let me know what you need," Clemenza responded warmly.
Mike explained the situation. Hardy's girlfriend had been threatened by a singer, and Mike wanted to avoid excessive force.
"This is a minor issue. I'll handle it. By tomorrow, the singer will be lying at his doorstep," Clemenza said.
"No, my friend only wants a lesson, not something extreme," Mike clarified.
Clemenza asked, "To what extent? Should we break his hands and legs?"
"I don't think that's necessary. Just make him understand the seriousness of the situation and ensure he performs as contracted."
Clemenza, understanding Mike's request, called the old Godfather to inform him of the situation. The old Godfather, seeing Mike mature and engage with the family's influence responsibly, approved the plan. He advised Clemenza not to use excessive force but to ensure the singer understood the seriousness of the matter and complied with his contract.
Clemenza agreed and set to work, while the old Godfather reached out to contacts in the entertainment industry to ensure everything was arranged properly. He even contacted his son Johnny Fontane to assist.
The next day, Hardy and Ava prepared to leave their room when they encountered the MGM publicity director waiting outside.
"Mr. Hardy, Miss Ava, good morning," the director greeted them.
"Busy?" Hardy asked.
"Yes, there's good news. Robin called this morning, saying he will attend the performance tonight as planned. He's already at the theater rehearsing. He apologized for his actions yesterday and assured us it won't affect the performance," the director said.
Ava looked puzzled. "What happened with Robin?"
The director glanced at Hardy before answering, "It seems Robin had some voice issues yesterday but assured us today he is fine and ready to perform."
Ava was surprised and relieved. "And what about the guest performances?"
"We've got some amazing additions. Judy Garland will sing 'Over the Rainbow,' Musculi will perform 'My True Love,' and Johnny Fontane will also be there," the director announced excitedly.
Ava's eyes widened in disbelief. "Are these stars coming because of MGM's arrangements?"
The director shook his head. "Not MGM. Maybe you should ask Mr. Hardy."
Ava turned to Hardy. "Did you arrange all this?"
Hardy shrugged. "I made a call yesterday, but I don't know the details."
The director marveled at Hardy's influence. It seemed clear that Hardy's call had a significant impact on the situation.
"I've got business to attend to during the day. I'll see you at the show tonight," Hardy said, giving Ava a kiss before leaving.
Ava smiled and waved as Hardy and Mike headed out.
Mike picked up Hardy, and as they drove, Hardy thanked him. Mike asked, "How was the situation resolved?"
"You don't know?" Hardy asked, surprised.
"I only made one call yesterday," Mike replied.
Hardy chuckled. "Well, let's hurry. We have a lot to do today, and we can't miss the show tonight."
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