บท 67: Chapter 67 – Turning on Tame Attributes
"Cooperate, how exactly?" Director Ed asked, looking at Bill with a mix of curiosity and apprehension.
"It's simple," Bill said with a smirk. "We need you to help protect our business. Recently, we've started a new venture, placing game consoles in bars and convenience stores. I'm sure you've noticed the influx of slot machines and pinball machines on our turf."
Ed nodded. "I've heard reports about these machines."
"Yes, it's a modest business. If you could occasionally instruct the police to seize a few machines to keep the reporters quiet, but ensure it doesn't disrupt our operations," Bill continued. He then handed the money back to Ed, tempting him with the bribe.
The allure of money was irresistible. Ed, recognizing the consequences of refusal—ruin and imprisonment—accepted the bribe with a resigned sigh, shoving it into his pocket.
Bill observed Ed's reaction with satisfaction. Hardy's plan to bend the powerful to their will was proving effective.
"Director Ed, I'll be on my way now. You have my number. If anything comes up, don't hesitate to call," Bill said, closing the car door behind him.
As Bill left, Ed's expression remained grim. The feeling of being controlled and threatened was unsettling. The evidence Bill had presented made it clear that refusal could lead to his downfall. Cursing Dani and his machinations, Ed smoked several cigarettes, struggling with his sense of helplessness.
Eventually, he resigned himself to the situation, hoping that one day he could escape this entanglement when he retired from his position.
---
Bill, on the other hand, was elated. He had successfully coerced the Los Angeles Police Chief into submission—a real achievement. He relished the power of controlling figures who, despite their public authority, could be manipulated through their vulnerabilities.
Back at the security company, Bill recounted his experience to Hardy with enthusiasm. "Boss, you wouldn't believe the thrill of making a big shot like that bend to your will. I love this feeling."
Hardy, noting Bill's excitement, wondered if this marked the beginning of a troubling trend in Bill's character.
"Bill, continue ordering more slot machines and pinball machines. Let's fully expand this business," Hardy instructed.
"Understood, boss. I'll send someone to San Francisco to place the order," Bill confirmed.
"Tomorrow, I'm heading to Las Vegas. Keep an eye on things here," Hardy said.
"Are you meeting with Mr. Siegel?" Bill asked.
"That's right."
"With our control over this territory, can we officially form a gang now?" Bill asked eagerly.
Hardy, preparing for his trip, boarded the plane to Las Vegas. To his surprise, he found that the flight was the same as before, with the same pilot making the same announcement.
Las Vegas in April was hot and dry. Upon arrival, Hardy was greeted by the same bodyguard who had picked him up previously.
"Mr. Hardy, Mr. Siegel is expecting you at the construction site," the bodyguard said.
At the Flamingo Casino construction site, Hardy noted the significant progress. What had been a clearing last time was now a building under renovation, with the main structure completed.
Siegel, tanned and lean from his efforts, greeted Hardy warmly. "Last time you were here was right after Christmas. Look at the progress now."
"How soon until it's finished?" Hardy asked.
Siegel replied, "I expect the main structure will be complete by May or June next year. But that's just the beginning. I want it to be the most luxurious casino in the world, with stunning decor and top-notch equipment."
Hardy then informed Siegel about the takeover of the Spanish Gang. "Dani is dead, and I've taken control of the Spanish Gang's territory."
Siegel was taken aback. "Dani is dead?"
"Yes, he died in Colombia, though the official story is that he's simply retired," Hardy explained.
Siegel, puzzled, asked, "There were no reports of large-scale conflicts. How did you manage it?"
"I used strategic methods to avoid a major conflict. I replaced the leaders swiftly and quietly," Hardy detailed.
Impressed, Siegel looked at Hardy with admiration. "You've done an excellent job. The way you took over the Spanish Gang's territory is even more exciting than my endeavors in Los Angeles. I promised that if you succeeded, you'd be able to form your own gang. You can now take on that role."
Hardy shook his head. "Mr. Siegel, I don't want to be the leader of a gang. My focus is on legitimate business. I plan to have my brother, Bill Pitt, lead the gang."
Siegel was surprised by Hardy's decision, but he respected it. Hardy's vision for the future was clear, and Siegel acknowledged his choice to delegate the gang leadership to Bill.
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