Chapter 248: Hardy in Custody
Hardy's phone rang, pulling him from his thoughts. It was Ava's concerned voice on the other end. "Hardy, how are you holding up?"
"Of course, why do you ask?" Hardy replied with a smile.
"I saw the newspapers. They're saying the Supreme Court subpoenaed your company and there's a chance you might face jail," Ava said, her worry palpable.
"Haha, those newspapers are just sensationalizing things to grab attention. It's a minor issue and doesn't involve me directly. Don't worry. How's the promotion going?" Hardy asked.
The movie *Across the World* was about to start broadcasting, and Ava had been out with the crew for promotions, not currently in Los Angeles.
"The promotion is going very well. I just wanted to come back and be with you, but it seems you're handling things," Ava said.
"Absolutely. Once the promotion is done, I'm looking forward to seeing how well the movie performs," Hardy replied.
As soon as he hung up, the phone rang again. It was Heidi Lama. "Hardy, I saw the news. There won't be any problems, right?"
"None at all."
"How about tonight? Care to relax with a drink?" Heidi invited.
"Sure," Hardy agreed.
He dealt with several more calls before finally receiving one from President Johnson.
Johnson was visibly upset. "I suspect Dewey is behind this. It's a petty move. I've checked, and it won't affect you directly, but it might impact your business."
Dewey's actions were clearly aimed at undermining Johnson's supporters.
"Don't worry, Mr. President. I can handle this. Keep up with your speech tour; your approval ratings are climbing," Hardy said.
Johnson brightened at Hardy's words. "The increase in support is largely thanks to your promotion efforts. I truly appreciate it."
"Keep up the good work, and don't give up until the last moment," Hardy encouraged.
Later, Hardy drove to Heidi's studio. The atmosphere was more inviting than usual. Heidi was cooking steak, and Hardy opened a bottle of wine. They enjoyed a sumptuous dinner together.
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A few days later, Ava returned from the field. *Across the World* was set for its grand premiere, and HD Pictures had organized a high-profile event. Hardy, as the company's boss, attended the premiere.
During the event, a reporter asked Hardy, "Mr. Hardy, do you have any comments on the Supreme Court subpoena against the Hardy Group?"
The room fell silent. Hardy anticipated such questions and had prepared his response.
He smiled and took the microphone. "First, I want to clarify that the subpoena is not against the Hardy Group directly but a subsidiary, Hardy Hotel. The Hardy Group operates multiple companies, and this subpoena is specific to 'Hadi Hotel'."
"I have instructed our legal team to respond actively. As for me, I stand firmly behind federal law. If any wrongdoing is found in the company, I am prepared to accept the consequences and appear in court."
"New York State prosecutors have alleged that Hardy Hotel violated the lottery ban. Let me be clear: we do not engage in lottery activities. Gambling is legal in Las Vegas. What we have is a legitimate betting service, not a lottery."
"I want to address the lottery issue separately. As the U.S. enters a new era, public demand for various entertainment options increases. It's time to reconsider the lottery ban. I believe lifting the ban will positively impact American society."
"I've instructed the company to propose to the Nevada State Assembly to lift the lottery ban. I hope other states will also consider doing the same."
Hardy skillfully turned the Supreme Court's subpoena into a platform for advocating the end of the lottery ban. He argued that since gambling was legal in Nevada, banning lotteries, which were less significant, seemed outdated.
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*Across the World* officially premiered to high acclaim. Ava Gardner and Cary Grant, now even more famous from their roles on "Super Idol," saw their popularity soar. The film's intricate plot and high production quality captivated audiences and critics alike.
MGM's boss Meyer excitedly informed Hardy, "This movie could potentially surpass $30 million. It's a significant achievement, though still trailing behind 'Gone with the Wind.'"
While $30 million was impressive, it paled in comparison to the staggering $390 million global box office of *Gone with the Wind*.
Just as the film gained momentum, Hardy received another subpoena from the Federal Supreme Court, with a hearing scheduled in three days. Hardy, along with his team of lawyers and relevant Hardy Group employees, prepared to face the court in Washington for the first time.
The Supreme Court's building, a grand structure reminiscent of a Roman temple, was adorned with statues representing justice, law, and morality.
Standing under the steps, Hardy pondered the nature of fairness and justice. He wasn't sure if the court would be truly just or if it was influenced by other factors.
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In the courtroom, Hardy and his team faced off against three prosecutors. Hardy answered questions succinctly, defending the legality of the casino operations and the role of the proxy investment company. The focus was on whether betting across state lines constituted illegal lottery behavior.
Hardy's legal team, consisting of 16 lawyers, presented their case with precision. Hardy admired their skill but questioned the need for such extensive preparation.
Rossbeck, leading the defense, argued, "The prosecution's claims are based on unfounded assumptions. U.S. law requires concrete evidence, not speculative guesses. Betting by proxy is not illegal under the current laws of any state."
The courtroom drama unfolded with the defense presenting a strong case, while the prosecution struggled to prove their claims. Hardy was confident that, regardless of the outcome, the matter would not directly affect him, thanks to the thorough preparations and the legal team's expertise.
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The court session concluded for the day, marking only the beginning of what could be a lengthy legal battle. Hardy decided to leave the rest to his lawyers and focus on maintaining his business.
If the court ruled that proxy betting was indeed illegal, Hardy's business would face substantial financial losses. If not, his business would be validated and continue operating legally.
In the midst of this legal drama, global events took a dramatic turn. On May 14, 1948, the State of Israel was officially declared, and the next day, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Syria, and Lebanon launched a coordinated attack on Israel, sparking the first Middle East war.
Giannini, having received the news, realized Hardy's predictions about political developments might influence his position in the consortium, depending on the outcome of Johnson's re-election.