Chapter 356: Happy Birthday

Arriving at the military camp on the island, Neil, responsible for the island's security, greeted Hardy. The official military camp was still under construction, and the soldiers were temporarily living in tents.

Outside the military port, a 600-ton patrol ship and several 50-ton patrol torpedo boats were anchored. Initially, Hardy had purchased three Ladero-class destroyers. Two were stationed at bases in Southeast Asia, and one was assigned to a base in the Persian Gulf. Most of the other patrol ships and torpedo boats had also been sent there to combat the threat of pirates, leaving the fleet at Cayman Island somewhat understrength. Hardy realized it was time to acquire more warships.

Initially, these warships were meant to bolster the security company, but now that Hardy had territory to defend, it felt like he was responsible for a small nation. The idea of a national army being so modest didn't sit well with him. Strengthening the Cayman military could also benefit the security company—after all, the Cayman army could become an extension of HD Security, gaining valuable real-world combat experience.

With that thought, Hardy's mind briefly drifted to the idea of acquiring an aircraft carrier. But he quickly dismissed it. An aircraft carrier was a colossal financial burden, one even powerful nations like the United States struggled to maintain. Plus, it was unlikely the U.S. would be willing to sell one.

Settling on a more practical option, Hardy decided to buy a few destroyers. He recalled seeing them on a list of military supplies. He made a note to discuss it with Major General Williams, hoping to get the best deal possible.

After spending three days on the island, Hardy returned to Los Angeles. Still in the business of military logistics, he called Colonel Adam Beach to check on the situation. The connection through Hongmen had proved fruitful, with steady sales each month. Whether it was blankets or tents, everything had value; it was just a matter of finding the right buyer.

Reviewing the weapons list, Hardy bypassed the heavy cruisers and instead chose the Fletcher-class destroyers. These were advanced warships, boasting a full load of 3,050 tons, a length of 114.8 meters, and a crew of 353. Built between 1942 and 1945, the U.S. had produced a total of 175 Fletcher-class destroyers in just over two years, a testament to America's wartime manufacturing prowess.

The Fletcher-class destroyer, with its complete radar system and robust firepower, was ideal for combat, featuring main guns, torpedoes, and anti-aircraft artillery. It was far superior to a frigate in terms of combat capability.

Hardy called Major General Williams and expressed his interest in purchasing several Fletcher-class destroyers. "You know, my Cayman Islands is now a dominion, and it can have its own army. Given that the territory is just over 200 square kilometers, the army doesn't need much, and the air force isn't necessary. But we can develop the navy. I'm planning to buy a few Fletcher-class destroyers and was hoping for a favorable price," Hardy said.

"How many are you looking to buy?" Williams asked.

"Four ships. I can't afford more," Hardy replied, aware of the significant costs associated with maintaining a navy.

"Alright. I'll have Beach look at the conditions of those destroyers. Some are no longer in good shape and are slated to be used as target ships or scrapped. I'll make sure we get you the best deal," Williams assured him.

The two men shared a tacit understanding. Williams would choose the best-performing ships from the lot and sell them to Hardy at scrap prices. Beach would handle the rest.

Beach arrived with a list of four Fletcher-class destroyers. The ships were described as being in a semi-scrapped state, no longer worth repairing. They were either going to be used as target ships or dismantled. The final quoted price? A surprising $1.08 million per ship.

Considering that each destroyer had originally cost tens of millions of dollars to build, and the military's external sales price was set at $3.6 million, $1.08 million was indeed a bargain—a true scrap price.

Hardy informed HD Defense Company to prepare for the arrival of these warships.

Time flew by, and soon it was February.

The production of the film Beauty and the Beast was completed. This was the first co-production of live-action and animated films, marking a milestone in cinematic history.

Hardy watched the film in the screening room of his movie company, along with Taylor and the other main creators. The movie was a typical fairy tale, simple yet engaging, with vibrant, soft colors. Taylor was dazzling on screen, and the animated characters were charming and playful. The film was full of lighthearted moments, making it perfect for children.

After watching the movie, Hardy turned to Edward and asked, "How are the preparations for the premiere?"

"We're making sure everything is perfect. The venue is set at the Chinese Theater in Los Angeles, and we're going all out to make it as grand as possible, just as you requested," Edward replied.

He knew that this premiere was a special birthday gift from the boss to Taylor, so no effort was spared.

"And how about the distribution plans?" Hardy inquired.

"On the day of the premiere, Beauty and the Beast will be shown in 850 theaters across the United States," Edward reported.

Since the U.S. government had introduced the Paramount Act, requiring film companies to separate production, distribution, and exhibition, Hardy saw an opportunity. He had Edward reach out to MGM and several second- and third-tier film companies to set up a joint distribution company. With more films under their control, they could still wield significant influence over theaters.

This independent distribution company, dominated by Hardy Films and MGM, had become a force to be reckoned with. It negotiated film distribution with theaters, and the company's distribution capabilities had quickly risen to rival or even surpass those of other major studios—a brilliant strategic move.

The day of Taylor's birthday arrived, which coincided with the premiere of Beauty and the Beast. As night fell, the lights outside the Chinese Theater in Hollywood sparkled, creating a festive atmosphere. Many remarked that it was more spectacular than Christmas.

A long red carpet stretched out in front of the theater, cordoned off on either side, leaving a path down the center. On one side, eager fans—many part of the atmosphere group—cheered, while on the other side, reporters, armed with cameras, eagerly awaited the stars. ABC TV had set up for a live broadcast, capturing the event as if it were the Oscars.

Starting at half past six in the evening, waves of celebrities and guests began to arrive. Each star's appearance brought loud cheers from the crowd.

"Ingrid Bergman!"

"Vivien Leigh!"

"Deborah Kerr!"

"Greta Garbo!"

"It's Ava, Ava Gardner!"

The star-studded entrance ceremony lasted over an hour. Suddenly, the sound of horses' hooves echoed in the distance. A luxurious white European-style carriage, drawn by four white horses and adorned with gold trim, slowly approached. The carriage was as grand as any used by the British royal family.

The carriage stopped at the red carpet, and Hardy was the first to step out. Everyone knew this was the main event. Hardy extended his hand, and Taylor, her gloved hand resting delicately on his palm, gracefully stepped out.

Elizabeth Taylor, wearing a princess gown with a cinched waist that accentuated her figure, looked stunning. Her flawless face left the crowd in awe—she was every inch a princess that night.

"Bang!"

A firework exploded in the sky. The crowd gasped in surprise at the unexpected display, their attention drawn upwards.

Bang! Bang! Bang!

The sky lit up with continuous bursts of fireworks, illuminating Hollywood's night sky.

Taylor, her arm linked with Hardy's, walked down the red carpet with a contented smile. The reporters frantically snapped pictures, capturing this magical moment.

The premiere ceremony was spectacular, with ABC TV broadcasting the event live. As the movie began, the Hardy Pictures logo appeared on screen, followed by a message:

"Today is Elizabeth Taylor's birthday, and this film is dedicated to her! ~~ Jon Hardy."

The crowd erupted in applause before the movie had even started.

This gesture was bound to go down in film history as one of the most romantic, regardless of the reason behind it.

Beauty and the Beast was a delightful fairy tale for all ages, and the live-action and animation combination was truly innovative. The movie ended to a standing ovation.

After the premiere, a reception was held at a nearby hotel. The atmosphere was relaxed as guests enjoyed food, drinks, and conversations. A massive five-tiered cake was brought out, and everyone sang "Happy Birthday" to Taylor.

Taylor's 18th birthday party was glamorous and unforgettable.

At the end of the night, as everyone departed, Taylor chose not to return home. Instead, she rode with Hardy back to his manor.

In the bedroom, Taylor looked at Hardy with a shy smile. "Hardy, I'm finally 18."

Hardy smiled, lowering his head to kiss her ear. "Now, we'll celebrate your birthday alone and complete your coming-of-age ceremony," he whispered.

Taylor, slightly flushed from the wine, blushed even more at Hardy's words. But instead of shying away, she met his gaze boldly, leaning in for a kiss.

Hardy's hands slipped under her princess gown as he lifted the petite Taylor into his arms, waltzing around the room to the music.

A pink butterfly fluttered around them, as Elizabeth Taylor, once a youthful, radiant girl, transformed into a woman.

On her 18th birthday, Taylor experienced the joy and fulfillment she had long