Chapter 82: Los Angeles Bank Robbery

The film is finalized. In addition to being the screenwriter and investor, Hardy also retains the rights of the second producer, while the rest of the production will be handled by MGM's director and Hitchcock.

Over the next few days, both parties finalized the details and signed the contracts.

Elizabeth Taylor, dressed in shorts and a shirt, sat on the grass in her backyard. Her mother would never have allowed this before, but Taylor had a reason now—to prepare for her role.

Holding a revolver—one she begged her mother to buy, though it was without bullets—Taylor aimed at a tree, contemplating her lines and trying to channel the emotions of her character.

"He's the one who killed my parents and siblings. I want to kill him myself!" She muttered, imagining the intensity of Matilda's feelings.

Sighing, she set the pistol down. Taylor hadn't seen Mr. Hardy for two days and was anxious about the film's progress and her chances of landing the role.

A servant hurried to the backyard. "Miss Taylor, Mrs. Sara asked me to bring you to the lobby to see a guest."

Taylor's face lit up with surprise. She jumped up and rushed inside.

In the living room, Hardy and Sara were talking. Sara had just poured tea for Hardy and asked, "Mr. Hardy, how did the discussions with MGM go?"

"An agreement has been signed. The total investment is $2.6 million. MGM's contribution is $1.6 million, and mine is $1 million," Hardy replied.

Sara's smile widened. Hardy's $1 million investment indicated significant wealth and status.

"Have the actors been finalized?" Sara asked, her voice tinged with anticipation.

"Yes. The director will be Hitchcock, and Gary Grant will play Lyon," Hardy confirmed.

Hitchcock and Grant were prestigious choices, and Sara felt a surge of excitement. 

"And the heroine, Matilda?" Sara asked nervously.

"I recommended Taylor for the role, and after negotiations, they agreed," Hardy said.

Sara's excitement was palpable. She knew her daughter's chances were slim, but Hardy's recommendation made all the difference.

"Thank you, Mr. Hardy," Sara said, her gratitude clear.

At that moment, Taylor burst into the room, her face bright with joy. "Mr. Hardy, you're here!"

"Miss me after just a few days?" Hardy smiled.

Taylor, a bit embarrassed, held up the pistol she had been practicing with. "I was practicing Matilda's feelings with this gun."

Sara, looking at Taylor, felt a mix of pride and concern. Her daughter's close relationship with Hardy could only benefit her career.

"Yes, the actors are confirmed, but the roles are not set in stone yet. MGM will handle the preliminary preparations. Hitchcock will conduct a screen test when the time comes. So, keep practicing and improving," Hardy advised.

Taylor, enthusiastic, asked, "Will you still train me, Mr. Hardy?"

"As long as I have time," Hardy promised.

"Great! When do you have time?" Taylor asked eagerly.

"I'm free today," Hardy replied.

With that, Taylor climbed into Hardy's car, thrilled. Sara watched them leave, pondering the benefits of such a relationship for her daughter's future. 

Hardy decided to take Taylor on a motorcycle ride. He visited Big Ivan to borrow a Harley-Davidson, much like Captain America's. 

Taylor, excited, clung to Hardy as they sped down the highway, enjoying the thrill of the ride. Back in the city, they explored the bazaar, indulging in hot dogs, beer, and playful activities. Taylor was thrilled by the experience, and Hardy enjoyed showing her a different side of life.

At one stall, Hardy bought a potted plant labeled "Silver Queen" and handed it to Taylor. "This represents Lyon's character. It's a symbol of kindness and longing amidst the coldness."

Taylor, touched, accepted the gift.

As afternoon approached, Hardy planned to take Taylor home. They were heading back to pick up the car when they witnessed a dramatic scene unfolding nearby. 

A bank branch was under attack. A white money-carrying truck was surrounded by security guards, and robbers in masks and armed with machine guns were opening fire. 

Hardy quickly pulled Taylor to safety behind a nearby building as gunfire erupted. Explosions rang out, and the scene descended into chaos. 

Robbers, having incapacitated most of the security guards, looted the cash boxes from the truck. They used grenades to create further mayhem, leaving the scene in disarray before escaping in a black car.

Taylor, wide-eyed, clung to Hardy as they watched the violent spectacle.