Chapter 122: Being Revered
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Taylor's face, freshly treated with top cream and emollient essence, looked even more radiant. She beamed at her reflection in the mirror.
"Mr. Hardy, don't you think it looks better?"
"Taylor is always the most beautiful angel," Hardy responded, his words laced with his usual charm. Taylor narrowed her eyes at his compliment.
"I want to buy a set to give to my mother when I return to Los Angeles," Taylor said.
Mrs. Lauder, delighted by the sale, asked a waiter to wrap the products for Taylor. Hardy glanced at Mrs. Lauder and inquired, "Madam, do you have some time to chat?"
"Certainly, sir. What would you like to discuss?" Mrs. Lauder responded, intrigued by the handsome young man before her.
Hardy picked up a bottle of lotion and asked, "Did you develop these products yourself?"
Mrs. Lauder nodded, then hesitated. "Not entirely. Initially, it was my uncle who developed them. He's a dermatologist and created a skin care cream to address severe skin dehydration and cracking in his patients."
"I also have dry skin. My uncle used the cream on me, and the results were excellent. That experience inspired me to study chemistry and dermatology in college."
"By 1930, I focused entirely on skin care. I started by selling to friends and at salon parties, and as the business grew, I reinvested in research and development. Last year, I founded my own cosmetics company, Estee Lauder, and by Christmas, we'll have a counter at Fifth Avenue Mall. My goal is to make Estee Lauder a renowned brand in cosmetics."
Mrs. Lauder spoke with a mix of pride and determination, reflecting her struggle to build her business in a male-dominated industry.
"For more than ten years, your dedication and hard work are truly admirable," Hardy complimented. He then introduced himself, handing her a business card.
Mrs. Lauder examined the card, astonished by the titles: Chairman of HD Security, Chairman of HD Pictures, Director of MEBO TV, Owner of Playboy Magazine, and Chairman of HD Toy Company.
HD Security was recently prominent in the news, especially after the documentary "Los Angeles Bank Robbery." HD Pictures had made headlines with "Red Dead Redemption," becoming the highest-grossing film of the year. MEBO TV's installment sales had caused a sensation in New York, and HD Toy Company was known for its luxury Barbie dolls. Mrs. Lauder had even read "Playboy" and admired its articles, particularly those featuring Heidi Ramah.
Mrs. Lauder looked up at Hardy, noting his youth and confidence, and wondered if he was truly the owner of such prominent companies.
Hardy noticed her skepticism and pointed to Taylor. "Have you seen 'The Jade Goddess Horse' or 'The Dog Lacey'? She's Elizabeth Taylor, the star of those films."
Mrs. Lauder's eyes widened with recognition. "I did think she looked familiar. It's an honor to have her use my products."
"Mrs. Lauder, have you considered accelerating your company's growth? Are you interested in investors?" Hardy asked.
Mrs. Lauder hesitated, unsure how to respond. Hardy smiled reassuringly. "Don't rush your decision. I'm staying at the St. Regis Hotel for the next few days. If you're interested in discussing a partnership, feel free to visit."
As Hardy took Taylor's hand and left, she felt a thrill at his touch, her cheeks flushing with warmth. Mrs. Lauder, meanwhile, was both nervous and excited at the prospect of such a significant opportunity.
Returning to her company, Mrs. Lauder shared the encounter with her husband, Joseph, who managed internal affairs. He evaluated the situation calmly.
"Given that the St. Regis Hotel is a high-end establishment, and Mr. Hardy is associated with Elizabeth Taylor, it seems unlikely he's a fraud," Joseph concluded. "Also, check with Judy Garland. She might have insights, as she was involved with the 'Red Dead Redemption' promotion."
Mrs. Lauder quickly called her friend, who in turn reached out to Judy Garland.
Judy Garland was thrilled at the prospect of meeting Hardy and eagerly confirmed his stay at the St. Regis Hotel. She and Johnny Fontaine decided to arrange a smaller welcome party at Johnny's villa, recognizing the significance of Hardy's visit.
As Judy and Johnny prepared to host, Hardy's reputation as a respected and influential figure continued to grow, drawing admiration from across the entertainment and business worlds.
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