Chapter 280: Monroe ~ Passionate
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The following day.
Hardy instructed Johnston to send a telegram to Wells Fargo President John Ston, agreeing to Nile Shipping's request for freighters in exchange for shares. The proportion of shares would be negotiated through the usual process.
"Don't worry, Hardy. The president of Wells Fargo is meticulous about company shares," Johnston reassured.
A few days later, Johnston's telegram reported the negotiation results. Hardy Shipping Company had invested in 15 Freedom Vessels and 5 Victory Vessels and injected $1 million in cash, making it the largest shareholder of Nile Shipping Company with 43% of the shares. Hardy approved and authorized Johnston to finalize the contract.
The shipping group had expanded once more.
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The TV series "Captain America" was a massive hit. The blend of Anti-Japanese War, French assaults, and super warriors captured the audience's imagination.
Meanwhile, Captain America's motorcycle, a rare WWII military Harley, became highly coveted. Despite its rarity, Harley dealerships had none for sale.
Hardy, who had acquired and refurbished over 14,000 Harleys, saw an opportunity. After the latest episode aired, ABC TV announced it would sell a limited edition of the Captain America motorcycle. Priced at $668 each, the bikes flew off the shelves despite their high cost.
The host's pitch highlighted the motorcycle's exclusivity and historical significance, including a Captain America spray paint logo with each purchase. The appeal was strong enough to sell over 10,000 units, earning Hardy over $9 million.
Harley, regretting their decision to sell the rights, attempted to repurchase them. Hardy refused, citing the value of the limited edition and his intention to maintain its exclusivity. Instead, he proposed that Harley design a new motorcycle for Captain America's next season, with the possibility of featuring Harley prominently in the show. Though intrigued, Harley balked at the high costs of advertising and commissions.
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Edward delivered three script drafts to Hardy: "Roman Holiday," "Seven Year Itch," and "Enthusiasm."
Hardy found "Roman Holiday" acceptable but suggested revisions for some overly literary details. "Seven Year Itch" didn't match Hardy's vision, as it depicted the woman more as a fantasy than a seductress.
However, Hardy was impressed with "Enthusiasm," noting it was well-written and even exceeded the original.
Edward was relieved to have one approved script and planned to show Monroe the script for the heroine role once she returned from her tour.
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In Houston, the 'Super Idol' tour took place in a baseball stadium, drawing nearly 7,000 spectators. Despite January's chill, the weather was mild, perfect for an outdoor event.
Monroe received the loudest cheer as she took the stage, dressed in a striking outfit that showcased both allure and charm.
Among the audience, Cohenheim, a powerful underground figure in Houston, was particularly captivated by Monroe. He considered her his target, rationalizing that Hardy wouldn't risk a conflict over a single woman.
At the end of the performance, Monroe and her entourage returned to the hotel. Unexpectedly, two men with hats arrived, demanding she come with them. When Monroe refused and tried to close the door, the men forcibly entered, alarming her and her companions.
Two HD security guards intervened, resulting in a fierce confrontation. The guards, trained and equipped, quickly overpowered the intruders. The attackers, unable to prevail, vowed revenge before fleeing.
The security team gathered everyone in the hotel's large conference room and prepared their defenses with guns and ammunition, anticipating further trouble.
Hardy, informed of the situation, instructed Lanster to dispatch a team to Houston to manage the crisis and called the Pritz family for assistance. The Pritz family agreed to help, recognizing the potential ramifications of inaction.
Hardy then prepared to travel to Houston, ready to resolve the situation personally.
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