Chapter 145: Siegel is Dead
The old godfather was finally discharged from the hospital. After more than a month of treatment, his injury had completely stabilized, and he could now return home for recovery. He was taken back to Corleone Manor.
Hardy visited the old godfather, who looked at him with gratitude. "Hardy, I want to thank you again for staying in New York for a month and a half to help Mike."
"You're welcome. I hope you recover soon," Hardy replied.
Hardy hadn't expected to stay in New York for so long. When he arrived, it was raining and sleeting; now, the city was blooming. However, the extended stay had been beneficial. Not only had he assisted Mike, but he had also strengthened ties with the Corleone family, acquired an airline through the Empty Glove White Wolf, gained friends in high places like General Williams, and secured a lieutenant general consultant for HD Security.
"Mr. Vito, I'm going to bid you farewell and head back to Los Angeles," Hardy said.
The old godfather nodded. "You have so much business to handle. If you need help from the Corleone family in the future, don't hesitate to call. I have connections in New York, Washington, and the business world that might be of use."
Hardy appreciated the offer. With his business expanding, he could use all the support he could get.
After a family dinner at Corleone Manor, Hardy said his goodbyes, and Mike saw him off. At the entrance of the manor, Hardy gave Mike a pat on the shoulder. "Even though other families have paused their actions for now, stay vigilant. Call me if anything comes up."
Mike smiled. "I'll be careful."
---
At the airport, Hardy and his team prepared to return to Los Angeles. They had expanded their team since arriving, now comprising over 80 people, including Lanster, Andy's team, and the new president of HD Aviation, Franklin. Instead of chartering a plane, they flew back using their own aircraft, with Franklin planning to use Los Angeles as the West Coast hub.
Hardy, in his personal B-29 aerial fortress, was both uncomfortable and exhilarated. The plane landed smoothly at Los Angeles Airport. Before disembarking, Hardy instructed Franklin, "Find the aircraft manufacturer and transform this plane into a private airliner. Make it as quiet and comfortable as possible."
---
Back in Beverly Hills, Hardy settled into his manor. Though he had servants, he preferred solitude. After a shower, he sipped black tea while perusing the newspaper. An article caught his eye: HD Pictures announced their new film, "Human Ghosts Are Coming," with much anticipation.
Thinking of Heidi Ramah, Hardy called her. The phone rang a few times before her slightly lazy voice answered, "Who?"
"It's me," Hardy said.
"Oh, you're back."
"Yes, just arrived."
"If you have time tomorrow, I want to discuss the movie with you," Heidi said.
"I'd prefer you come over now," Hardy replied, a bit insistently.
Heidi hesitated, but Hardy arranged for the driver to pick her up.
After dinner, the two walked in the garden. Heidi remarked on the beauty of the house and suggested, "If you want it to be livelier, maybe find a wife and have a few kids."
Hardy shook his head. "I don't plan on getting married. I prefer having a different woman in every room."
Heidi was taken aback. "How many rooms do you have?"
"Thirty-two."
Heidi laughed. "That's quite ambitious."
---
That night, Heidi stayed over. Hardy, enjoying the company, spent the evening conversing with her.
The following day, Hardy played with Lori before she went home. As he enjoyed his peaceful life, significant events unfolded elsewhere.
---
In Sicily, Sonny Corleone, who had taken refuge there, was killed by a car bomb. His death was a blow to the Corleone family, who had been at odds with the Tatakilia family.
In New York, Mike was ambushed at a gas station. A group of gunmen fired at his car, killing two of his bodyguards. Mike survived, thanks to his driver's quick reflexes. The attack was a stark reminder of the ongoing danger.
In Las Vegas, Benjamin Siegel, known as Bugsy, was murdered at his home. Despite his efforts to make the Flamingo Casino a success, he was killed by gunmen who broke into his house. Fred, a prominent figure in the Los Angeles Jewish Gang, was also killed in the attack.
---
Back in Los Angeles, Hardy received urgent news from Henry. "Boss, Sonny was killed by a car bomb in Sicily."
Hardy was surprised. The story had deviated from the original narrative, with Sonny meeting his end before the expected plot events.
"What else?"
"Mike was ambushed at a gas station. His driver managed to fend off the attackers, but two of Mike's bodyguards died."
Hardy was relieved that Mike had survived but troubled by the escalating violence.
"And another piece of news: Siegel and Fred were killed in Las Vegas."
Hardy was stunned. "Siegel is dead?"
"Yes, Boss. Siegel and Fred are both dead."
Hardy sighed. Siegel had indeed met a grim fate, and the violence continued to disrupt the balance of power.