Chapter 105: Strong Connections

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New York.

Corleone Manor.

The old godfather, Vito Corleone, listened intently as his son Tom reported on the operation of the gang. After the report, the old godfather's thoughts turned to the recent developments surrounding Mike's TV business.

"How are Mike's TVs selling now?" Vito inquired.

Tom was momentarily caught off guard. "I've heard that they're selling about a dozen units a day."

Vito considered this for a moment. "The production line makes 120 units daily. If sales don't improve, there will be an excess of inventory, which could become a financial burden."

Tom replied, "Mike has been working hard on boosting sales. I'm confident his efforts will yield better results."

Vito nodded, his silence indicating that he was pondering the situation.

The phone on Vito's desk rang, breaking the quiet. Tom answered, "This is Corleone's house. Who is it?"

"This is Jon Hardy. May I speak with Mr. Vito Corleone, please?" Hardy's voice came through.

Tom glanced at his father before passing him the phone. "I'm Vito."

"Good afternoon, Mr. Corleone. I hope you're well. I apologize for the intrusion, but I have a favor to ask."

"Go ahead," Vito said warmly.

"I'm currently involved in a film project with MGM. Unfortunately, we've encountered an issue in New York. There was an accident on set, and the film administration has halted production. They're demanding $100,000 for damages, and there are indications that this might be an extortion attempt involving local gangs."

Vito listened attentively. "I understand. I will look into this matter for you."

"Thank you, Mr. Corleone. I'll be in New York soon and would be honored to visit you then."

"Please do. We'll have dinner together," Vito responded before ending the call.

Vito's thoughts lingered on Hardy's request. He was impressed by Hardy's achievements and had taken a keen interest in him since meeting him at the party. Hardy's quick rise in the business world and his connections had not gone unnoticed.

Two hours later, Tom returned with the results of his investigation. "Foster father, the situation involves the Tartaglia family. Buno Tartaglia, the son of the family patriarch, is behind this. He owns a film company and was involved in the accident that led to the demand for $100,000."

"Who else is involved?" Vito asked.

"From my inquiries, the accident was likely planned. The film management department was also influenced before the incident occurred."

"Very well," Vito said, "I'll handle this."

Vito dialed Philip Tartaglia's number and, after a brief conversation, said, "I understand there was an incident involving your son's company. The compensation for the injured should be $2,000 each, and I'll ensure that the film management department permits the resumption of shooting. Please take care of the injured parties."

Philip, recognizing the gravity of the situation, agreed. "I will discuss this with Buno."

Next, Vito called the deputy mayor overseeing the film administration. After a friendly chat, he was assured that the film crew would be allowed to resume work the following day. The fine was set at $200, and the crew was instructed to avoid further incidents.

Back at the hotel where the MGM producers and Hitchcock were staying, excitement spread after a phone call. The producer, thrilled, relayed the news to Hitchcock, "The administration called and said we can resume shooting from tomorrow. We're only fined $200, and the compensation for the injured has been reduced to $2,000 each."

Hitchcock, equally elated, remarked, "That's wonderful news. We'll be back on schedule tomorrow."

Later, the producer called Meyer, praising him for his strong connections. Meyer, puzzled, was unaware of any personal involvement in resolving the issue. He recalled Hardy's promise to look into the matter and began to suspect that Hardy's influence had been at play.

Meyer realized that Hardy's network was far more powerful than he had initially anticipated.