Chapter 330: Scandal
Britain's largest newspaper, *The Times*, featured Hardy's appointment as Baron of Great Britain and Governor of the Cayman Islands as the front-page headline.
The article detailed Hardy's investments in the UK over the years, including in British shipping, luxury goods, and journalism, as well as his significant investments in Hong Kong. It noted that Hardy's support for the British government, including purchasing national debt and providing loans, had earned him titles and a fief.
A large photograph accompanied the article, showing Hardy with members of the royal family and nobles, proudly displaying his Baron badge.
While *The Times* and other national newspapers in Italy, France, and the United States reported the story positively, *The New York Times* took a different angle. Known for its extensive global reach, the newspaper reported not only on Hardy's new title and the ceremony with the royal family but also published two intriguing photos.
In the first photo, Princess Margaret was seen adjusting Hardy's suit before the royal photograph was taken. The second photo captured Hardy and Princess Margaret smiling at each other in a candid, intimate moment. Despite only showing Princess Margaret's profile, her radiant smile was evident.
The accompanying text raised eyebrows:
"Mr. Hardy, the prominent American billionaire and media mogul, was seen at the ceremony receiving his Henry VI Medal. Princess Margaret helped adjust his attire, an act that seemed both natural and intimate. The ease with which the princess assisted Hardy and their apparent familiarity suggest a deeper connection."
"Princess Margaret's actions were so natural that it hints at a regular relationship between the two. The reporter wonders if their interaction indicates a romantic relationship."
"Given Mr. Hardy's substantial investments in the UK and Hong Kong, one might question why he would make such large investments in seemingly unremarkable assets. Could his motivations be tied to a personal connection with Princess Margaret?"
"Is it possible that Mr. Hardy's investments and efforts to gain British citizenship and nobility were all part of a grand plan to win Princess Margaret's affection?"
The scandalous nature of the article captured public interest. People are often more captivated by gossip than by positive news. The speculation about a romance between the American billionaire and the British princess fueled widespread curiosity.
The story presented in *The New York Times* seemed plausible to many readers, particularly in light of Hardy's significant investments and the mysterious nature of his decisions. The narrative of a commoner-turned-baron seeking royal affection struck a chord, especially among those who enjoyed romantic tales.
As the story spread, it reached the UK and stirred considerable discussion. Princess Margaret, as a potential future queen, was a high-profile figure. The prospect of her being romantically involved with an American billionaire provoked mixed reactions.
Before Hardy's acquisition of British citizenship and knighthood, such a scandal might have faced significant public backlash. However, with Hardy's new status and contributions to the UK, many British citizens viewed his actions more favorably. They saw his investments as a demonstration of his commitment to the country.
When Hardy read the various articles and speculative stories about him, he was incredulous. His investments were driven by his belief in the potential of the shipping and luxury goods industries, as well as the future profitability of Hong Kong and the Cayman Islands.
He found the elaborate theories surrounding his supposed romance with Princess Margaret absurd. Hardy couldn't understand how a single photograph could lead to such elaborate fabrications. He mused that the reporters might have a future as screenwriters, given their imaginative storytelling.
Meanwhile, in Hong Kong, Victor was taken aback by the reports, exclaiming, "The boss is apparently involved with the British princess again. Amazing!"