Chapter 48 – Heroine

In the reception room of the bank, Kevin Madion greeted Hardy with a cautious smile. He was wary, unsure if Hardy's visit would result in another unexpected situation.

"What can I assist you with today, Mr. Hardy?" Kevin asked.

"I'm here to apply for a loan," Hardy replied.

"How much do you need, and what will the funds be used for?" Kevin inquired.

"I'm planning to produce a film. I have some funds, but I need to borrow additional money from the bank," Hardy explained.

Kevin nodded. "Do you have any collateral or guarantees?"

"What kind of collateral do you require?" Hardy asked.

Kevin elaborated, "Typically, physical collateral includes valuable items like gold, art, real estate, or shares. In Hollywood, there are also unique options, such as using a film like *Gone with the Wind* as collateral. Though it's older, it continues to generate income for MGM, making it a viable asset."

"Alternatively, you can have a guarantee from a reputable company. If you default, the guarantor will cover the amount."

Hardy inquired about using his toy factory as collateral.

Kevin was taken aback. Hardy had purchased the toy factory just the day before and was already looking to use it for a loan. It seemed highly strategic.

"What amount are you considering for the mortgage?" Kevin asked carefully.

"I've had it assessed. With the land, factory, and equipment, it should be valued at around $60,000. I'd like to borrow that amount," Hardy said.

Kevin was surprised. Hardy had bought the factory for less than $40,000, and now he was looking to mortgage it for $60,000. If the bank's senior management knew, they might suspect manipulation for personal gain.

Kevin, still shaken by past experiences, was reluctant to refuse Hardy's request. "I'll do my best to get this approved," he said.

"Thank you, Director Madion," Hardy replied.

Kevin returned to his office. As the head of the credit department, he had the authority to approve loans up to $50,000 without higher-level approval. It was easier to lend $50,000 and avoid complications.

After processing the loan procedures, Kevin returned to the reception room. "Mr. Hardy, my limit is $50,000. Any amount higher would require approval from a senior committee, which could take at least two weeks."

"If you need the funds quickly, I can approve $50,000 immediately. What do you think?" Kevin asked cautiously.

Hardy considered the offer. The $50,000 would be nearly enough. With the $150,000 for the film and the remaining funds, he could manage initial expenses and hire staff.

"Okay, $50,000 it is," Hardy agreed.

Kevin was relieved. "I'll handle the paperwork, and the funds should be available in three days."

After leaving the bank, Hardy checked the time and decided to visit Noah's Ark Film Company. He had arranged to review the first draft of the script with the two screenwriters in the evening.

Arriving at the company, Hardy found Director Nolan already waiting. It was nearly six o'clock when the two screenwriters, David and Newton, finally arrived, looking exhausted but excited.

"Assistant Hardy, Director Nolan is here. We stayed up all night to finish the first draft. We believe it's very promising," David said eagerly.

Hardy took the script, and Nolan joined him in reviewing it. The draft was brief, around 3,000 to 4,000 words, and it took only a few minutes to read.

The draft captured the essence of Hardy's outline. Hardy was pleased, but Nolan appeared deep in thought.

"Director Nolan, what's your impression of the script?" Hardy asked.

Nolan, coming out of his reverie, responded, "I've visualized the scenes and plot. It's even better than we discussed yesterday. I'm quite optimistic about this film."

"This story isn't just about heroic, solitary figures; it has elements that Hollywood often lacks. The protagonist isn't a pure symbol of justice but a bounty hunter, ranger, and prodigal son, making him more complex and realistic."

"To set the tone, I plan to use panoramic and close-up shots, depicting sparse stubble, a dusty cloak, and a lone figure walking in the setting sun..."

Hardy noticed Nolan was deeply immersed in his vision for the film.

"Let's discuss with Cohen tomorrow about using Noah's Ark's equipment and staff for the production," Hardy suggested.

Nolan waved it off. "That's your concern. I'll focus on the film itself."

Nolan turned to the screenwriters. "We need to refine some details. Let's discuss them."

The three creative minds continued discussing the script in Hardy's office.

Hardy checked the time. It was around nine o'clock in the evening. Deciding to take a break from the creative whirlwind, he drove to Ava Gardner's house.

Ava opened the door in casual home attire, surprised to see Hardy.

"I haven't seen you in days," she said, hugging him.

"I've been swamped. Can I have dinner? I haven't eaten yet," Hardy replied.

Ava took his coat and hung it up. "What would you like to eat?"

"Anything you make is fine," Hardy said.

"How about spaghetti and steak?" Ava suggested.

"Sounds great," Hardy agreed.

While Ava cooked, Hardy poured a glass of wine. She glanced back at him. "What have you been up to lately?"

"Quite a bit, mostly business. But there's something I think you'll be interested in," Hardy said, taking a sip of his wine.

Ava's curiosity was piqued. "What is it?"

"I found a role for you in a film I'm producing," Hardy said.

Ava's eyes widened with excitement. "Really? What kind of role? Does it have lines? Even a single shot would be fine."

"The heroine," Hardy said with a smile.

Ava was momentarily stunned, disbelief on her face.

"The heroine? How is that possible?"

Hardy smiled reassuringly. "I'm investing in this film. It's a Western with a heroine, though her role is smaller. The film focuses more on the male characters. Do you want to take the part?"

Ava's reaction was immediate. "I want it, I want it!!!"

She let out an excited scream, dropped her barbecue fork, and rushed to Hardy. "Really, Hardy? A heroine? Thank you so much!"

...

"Ava, the steak is almost burning."

"Ignore it, Hardy~~~~~"