Chapter 388: Eat, Drink, Prostitute, and Bet on a Dragon

After leaving Princess Margaret's room, Hardy returned to his own, which was just two doors away. While Margaret was unwinding from her evening, Hardy was busy strategizing and ultimately decided to contact the White House to arrange a meeting with President Johnson before Margaret's official reception.

President Johnson, showing his respect for Hardy, agreed to meet him in the evening.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, Hardy and President Johnson strolled through the back garden of the White House, their conversation shielded by the distance of their bodyguards. They discussed various matters, with Hardy advocating for British interests while subtly aligning with his own agendas.

The following morning, Hardy found Princess Margaret looking weary with dark circles under her eyes. She was jetlagged and had not slept well.

"Not rested?" Hardy inquired with genuine concern.

"Jet lag has been rough," Margaret replied, concealing her true struggle—an all-night gambling spree that drained $20,000 from her account.

Unaware of her nocturnal activities, Hardy mentioned he had met with President Johnson. "He's agreed to delay the repayment but won't increase assistance or loans. The U.S. is currently focused on its own financial constraints due to ongoing conflicts."

Margaret's hopes were dashed as she realized the U.S. couldn't offer further help at the moment. The strain of trying to alleviate her sister's concerns weighed heavily on her.

At the evening reception, Hardy accompanied Margaret to the White House. Despite the grandeur of the dinner and Johnson's warm welcome, Margaret was unable to secure additional loans, as expected. The President's assistance was limited to extending the repayment terms, aligning with what Hardy had anticipated.

Margaret was disheartened but remained hopeful. Her sister's additional request to maximize the British royal family's presence and influence in the U.S. provided her with some solace, giving her a reason to explore the country.

After the formal events, Hardy offered to show Margaret the sights of America. "I'll arrange your itinerary. Just let me know where you want to go."

Margaret eagerly requested visits to Las Vegas and Hollywood. Hardy agreed, knowing these locations would be easy to arrange.

That night, Margaret, though tired from her extensive travels, refrained from sleep and instead prepared for her next adventure. She instructed her butler to top up her gambling account with another $20,000, a reflection of her newfound addiction.

The following day, the group departed Washington and flew to New York. Princess Margaret's arrival was met with excitement and media coverage. In New York, she marveled at Wall Street's bustling activity, admired the Statue of Liberty, and enjoyed Broadway shows and the Metropolitan Museum.

After a whirlwind two days in New York, the party flew to Los Angeles. Hardy organized a grand reception for Margaret, where Hollywood stars, including her friend Elizabeth Taylor, welcomed her warmly. Margaret's speech hoped to inspire the British film industry with Hollywood's success.

That evening, Margaret and Taylor spent time together, catching up and enjoying each other's company. The next day, Hardy took them on a private jet to Las Vegas, where they were discreetly transformed with elaborate makeup to avoid recognition.

At Caesars Palace Casino, Margaret and Taylor were dazzled by the opulence. They each received $200,000 in chips from Hardy and plunged into gambling with gusto.

Hardy's plan was to let Margaret experience the full spectrum of Las Vegas's entertainment: eating, drinking, gambling, and more. He wanted her to immerse herself completely in the city's vibrant and indulgent lifestyle.

As the two women embraced the Las Vegas atmosphere, their adventures continued amidst the glitz and glamour of the city, far from the royal duties and pressures awaiting them back in Britain.