Chapter 263: You Work Hard, I Am Not Short of Money!

Securing shares in Bank of America and penetrating the core of the California Consortium was a pivotal achievement for Hardy. This advancement not only elevated his position but also granted him access to more resources. However, it also came with a heightened responsibility to steer the consortium's enterprises toward greater profitability.

President Johnson's recent speech in San Francisco was a resounding success, attracting over 100,000 attendees. The event's grandeur was enhanced by high-profile performances, including one by Marilyn Monroe. Despite her absence of recent major projects, Monroe's star power was undeniable, akin to future celebrities who captivate audiences with their mere presence.

As Hardy prepared to return to Los Angeles on his private jet, he was surprised to find Marilyn Monroe onboard. She had been part of the performance team but had fallen ill with gastroenteritis. Andy, Hardy's assistant, explained that Monroe had been unable to travel back with the rest of the crew due to her condition.

Observing Monroe's pale and exhausted state, Hardy instructed his assistant to arrange for hot drinks and to ensure she was comfortable in his room. Initially reluctant, Monroe gratefully accepted the offer.

Once in Hardy's opulent room, Monroe took in her surroundings. The luxury of the jet was evident, and she felt a blend of gratitude and embarrassment at the thought of resting in the same bed that Hardy might have used. As she lay there, she smiled at the thought and let herself drift off to sleep, despite the recent turbulence.

During the flight, a sudden jolt caused Monroe to fall and sustain a minor injury. Hardy, despite the situation, found some amusement in the incident. Monroe's injury was minor, and she was soon attended to by medical staff.

Back in Los Angeles, Hardy and his team, including key figures from the Hardy Group and the California Consortium, were preparing for their European trip scheduled for September 20. Hardy and Andy discussed strategic investments, noting that the Marshall Plan's $20 billion funding would boost domestic industries. Hardy anticipated a rise in stock values for sectors like shipping, food, building materials, and other essentials. Andy was tasked with acquiring promising stocks to capitalize on this anticipated growth.

In a notable gesture of appreciation, Hardy visited Arnold, the journalist who had been injured in an attack. The Hardy Group publicly recognized Arnold's bravery with a $100,000 reward and a share of the documentary's box office profits, totaling $450,000. This reward was a calculated move to inspire loyalty and motivate the team. Hardy knew that while ideals and beliefs are important, financial incentives often drive performance and commitment more effectively.

In essence, Hardy's leadership was pragmatic. He understood that while high ideals could inspire, tangible rewards had a more immediate and powerful effect. His corporate culture motto, "You work hard, I am not short of money," reflected his belief in using financial incentives to foster loyalty and drive success.