Chapter 90: Undercurrent

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Mike and Hardy continued their conversation, sharing their military experiences and personal philosophies. They found common ground in their views on the world and their ambitions. For Mike, the war had been a defining experience, and he harbored dreams of entering politics to serve the people. Hardy, on the other hand, was focused on legitimate business ventures and was optimistic about the future of industries that would cater to people's everyday needs.

"What do you plan to do next?" Mike asked, curious about Hardy's future plans.

Hardy smiled, sipping his drink. "I'm currently working as an assistant to Mr. Siegel's film company, and I also own a company called HD Security."

"HD Security?" Mike was taken aback. "I've heard of it. The company gained a lot of attention after the Los Angeles bank robbery. I didn't realize it was yours."

"Yes, that's my company," Hardy confirmed.

Mike was intrigued. "So you didn't stay in the underworld?"

"I've distanced myself from that world. I used to be involved, but now I'm more interested in legitimate business," Hardy explained. "I believe gangs have a natural limit to their growth. In the long run, as society evolves, their operations will face increasing restrictions."

Mike listened intently as Hardy outlined his views on the future of gangs versus legitimate industries. Hardy spoke of various promising fields—everything from consumer goods to communications and real estate. His insights impressed Mike, who found himself agreeing with Hardy's perspective.

Meanwhile, in the study, Vito Corleone had summoned Siegel and several key figures involved in the Flamingo Casino project. The atmosphere was tense as the discussion turned to financial disputes.

Tommy Galliano, representing the Basini family, expressed frustration. "Siegel, you initially estimated $2.2 million for the casino. We each contributed $500,000, and now you're asking for more, claiming a shortage. You changed the design and demanded additional funds."

Siegel remained calm. "I'm building something grand—a palace in the desert, not just a casino. It's not just about gambling; it's about creating an entire destination."

Galliano was skeptical. "A palace? The cost seems excessive. We've consulted architects, and the estimated cost should be around $5 million, not $8 million. We suspect there's corruption."

Kolob of the Strache family was more direct. "We have two options: either you return our investments with interest, or each of us gets 16% of the shares, and the casino must open by the end of the year."

Siegel responded, "It's unlikely we'll meet the end-of-year deadline. I anticipate an opening in April or May next year."

The discussion grew heated, but Vito Corleone intervened, proposing a compromise. "The casino's total equity will be adjusted to $6 million, with each of you receiving 13% of the shares. The construction should proceed with the goal of opening by the end of this year."

The patriarchs begrudgingly accepted the compromise, though they remained dissatisfied with the share distribution.

As the meeting concluded, the conversation shifted to a contentious topic: drug trafficking. Tommy Galliano suggested accepting Solazzo's offer for drug trafficking, arguing that it was highly profitable.

Vito Corleone firmly rejected the idea. "Drugs corrupt the soul and are unacceptable. I will not involve myself in this business, no matter the potential profits."

Despite the insistence of other gang leaders, Vito stood firm. "Drugs are too destructive. I refuse to engage in this business, even if it means losing potential allies."

As the meeting ended, Vito turned to Siegel. "Be cautious. I sense that tensions are rising, and there may be moves against us. We must stay vigilant."

Siegel nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. The undercurrents of power and money were shifting, and the stability of their operations was at stake.