Chapter 89: Mike Corleone
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After arriving in New York, Hardy checked into the hotel, while Siegel went to stay at his friend's house. Before leaving, he patted Hardy on the shoulder and said, "I'll pick you up tomorrow afternoon."
Hardy, feeling surprisingly energetic despite the long flight, hailed a taxi and headed towards Wall Street.
New York City in the 1940s was a marvel of modern architecture and bustling activity. Tomorrow was Vito Corleone's birthday, and Hardy wanted to find a suitable gift. He wandered around the city but didn't find anything that seemed right. Passing an antique shop, he noticed some exquisite European antiques and beautiful porcelain on display.
Inside the shop, Hardy browsed a variety of antiques, including European, American, and even Egyptian pieces. Among them, the Chinese porcelain caught his eye with its vibrant colors and intricate designs.
"How much for these porcelains?" Hardy asked the elderly shopkeeper.
"Which one are you interested in?" the shopkeeper replied.
Hardy pointed to an enamel bottle. "This one?"
"That's $80."
"Too expensive."
"And this red one?"
"$55."
"Still too much," Hardy said, shaking his head.
Determined to make a deal, Hardy offered $30 per piece for the entire collection. The shopkeeper was initially shocked but eventually agreed to $35 each. Hardy ended up purchasing 36 pieces for $1,260 and arranged for them to be shipped to the security company's address.
Realizing he needed a gift for Vito Corleone, Hardy selected an elegant Victorian silver plate from the shop and asked for it to be beautifully wrapped.
The next day, Siegel picked up Hardy and drove him to the Corleone estate. The streets around the manor were filled with cars, and the yard was bustling with guests.
As Hardy entered the lively yard, he was struck by the familiarity of the scene, reminiscent of the movie depiction of the Corleone mansion. Despite the festivity, Hardy was just another face among many and felt somewhat out of place.
Siegel led Hardy into the living room where Vito Corleone, the patriarch of the Corleone family, sat among a group of men discussing various topics. Corleone, portrayed in a calm and wise demeanor, stood as Hardy approached.
"Hello Mr. Corleone, my name is Jon Hardy. I have a gift for you. Happy birthday," Hardy said, presenting the wrapped gift.
"Thank you, young man," Corleone responded, his eyes showing a hint of curiosity.
Vito Corleone was intrigued by Hardy's background, particularly his involvement in legitimate businesses. Siegel had spoken highly of Hardy, and Corleone seemed genuinely interested.
As the birthday party began, the yard filled with the sounds of celebration, with guests dancing, singing, and enjoying the barbecue. Hardy mingled among the crowd but noticed a lone figure standing apart from the festivities.
It was Michael Corleone.
Hardy recognized him immediately. Michael stood under a grapevine, holding a glass of wine, looking somewhat detached from the lively atmosphere. Taking a deep breath, Hardy approached him.
"Hello, my name is Jon Hardy," Hardy introduced himself.
"I'm Mike," Michael replied, a hint of curiosity in his voice.
"You seem like you've been a soldier," Hardy said, trying to strike up a conversation.
Michael looked surprised. "How can you tell?"
"Just a feeling. Your demeanor reminds me of someone who's seen combat," Hardy said.
Michael was intrigued. "Have you served?"
"Yes, I was in the Marine Corps. I fought in the Pacific Theater last year and was wounded. And you?"
"I served in the 4th Infantry Division, participated in the Normandy invasion and several other battles, before retiring with serious injuries," Michael shared.
The two men found common ground in their shared experiences, and the conversation flowed more naturally. Both had faced the trials of war, and their mutual understanding forged a connection.
As they continued their conversation, Hardy felt a sense of intrigue and respect for Michael Corleone, the man who would become a significant figure in the future of the Corleone family.
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