Chapter 273: Audrey Hepburn Found It

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The HD Mercenary Company had been established, but it still lacked a leader. Lanster was in charge of the company's overall security and had a combat command room think tank under his supervision. The intelligence company was managed by Henry. However, a person was needed to lead the mercenary company.

Lanster eventually recommended John Harris.

John Harris was a member of the combat command room think tank. At 42 years old, he was a former Marine Corps colonel who had begun his career as an ordinary Marine soldier, progressing through roles as squad leader, sergeant chief, combat staff, and support group captain. Harris was notable for his performance during World War II, where he commanded regiment-level unit operations against Japan.

Following a major disarmament, Harris was laid off. Having spent half his life as a soldier, he found civilian life uncomfortable. When HD Security expanded its recruitment at the end of 1946, Harris applied for a position. Lanster, a former Marine Corps staff officer, was familiar with Harris's reputation and recruited him into the combat command room.

Hardy agreed with Lanster's proposal. Having interacted with Harris, he found him to be straightforward and efficient—a person who had seen much in battle and had a no-nonsense approach.

"Let Harris take charge," Hardy decided.

Harris was summoned to Hardy's office. Dressed in a combat camouflage uniform and standing about 1.9 meters tall with a lean frame and hollow cheeks, he exuded a serious demeanor. His upright posture spoke of a professional soldier's discipline.

"Mr. Harris, if you were appointed as the head of the HD Mercenary Company, what would be your first step?" Hardy asked.

Harris paused briefly before responding, "The first thing I'd do is change the company's name."

Hardy raised an eyebrow. "Change the name to what?"

"HD Security Defense Company," Harris replied. "The term 'mercenary company' is too harsh. 'Security and Defense Company' sounds more professional and less intimidating."

Hardy considered this and nodded. "Very well. From now on, you are the head of the HD Security and Defense Company. You'll begin forming your team and will be involved in the planning for future development."

Harris's excitement was palpable. "I'll get started immediately, Mr. Hardy."

The HD Security and Defense Company was formally established and began receiving equipment. Hardy, Harris, and Colonel Beech visited the logistics department warehouse.

"Guns, artillery, vehicles, tanks—take what you need. We have no restrictions on army equipment," Hardy said.

"We've ordered aircraft—10 fighters in various models. They're currently being maintained," Beech added, gesturing to large wooden crates.

Hardy pointed to a crate. "This contains aircraft engines. Two sets of engine accessories come with each aircraft."

"Sea power is limited to frigates, and those are also under maintenance," Hardy continued. "For manpower, you can either select from existing HD Security personnel or from the veterans list. I've committed to helping Major General Williams integrate 1,000 veterans annually."

Colonel Beech smiled. "Mr. Hardy, you've made a significant promise regarding veterans."

Hardy responded with a soft smile, "There will be more opportunities in the future. Once my logistics company and supermarket chain are up and running, we'll be able to accommodate tens of thousands of veterans."

Turning to Harris, Hardy said, "Since we already have Marines, we now need professional staff for our air and sea operations. Coordinate with Colonel Beech to recruit the best."

"I understand, Mr. Hardy," Harris replied.

Beech assured, "I'll fully cooperate with Colonel Harris."

With these arrangements in place, Hardy left the details to Harris. As the boss, he provided the resources and trusted the professionals to handle the specifics.

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On this day, Hardy received a report from Henry.

"Boss, the girl you asked about, Audrey Hepburn, has been located."

Hardy's interest was piqued. "Give me the details."

Henry explained, "Audrey Hepburn is 19 years old, born in Brussels, Belgium. Her father was an English banker, and her mother was Dutch with the title of baron. She studied at an aristocratic boarding school in Kent, England. After her parents' divorce, she moved to the Netherlands with her mother and studied ballet at the Anheng Conservatory. With the German occupation of the Netherlands, life became challenging. This year, she attended a ballet school called Mary Lambert in London, participating in Dutch promotional films and stage performances."

Hardy absorbed the information. The current Audrey Hepburn was far from the icon she would become, but he saw potential.

He called Edward. "Edward, arrange for someone to sign Audrey Hepburn to the HD agency. Henry has her details, and our team will assist with the process."

Edward took the information, noting the color photo of the elegant but young girl. "What are your plans after signing her?"

Hardy thought for a moment. "For now, let her mature a bit more. After signing, arrange training for her in performance, stage work, and film roles. She'll need time to develop."

"Understood, Mr. Hardy. I'll handle it personally."

Edward, once a house seller, had risen to become the president of HD Pictures, understanding well the significance of Hardy's directives.

"By the way, how have other film companies responded to the Paramount Act?" Hardy inquired.

Edward reported, "Paramount has agreed to sell its theaters and is negotiating with various theater operators. Other major companies have reduced their film productions and some have ceased operations. Paramount is exploring the TV industry, potentially partnering with NBC."

The Paramount Act had not impacted Hardy's HD film industry negatively; in fact, it created opportunities. Hardy had considered secretly acquiring theater chains but had lost interest, finding the investment slow and the focus shifting.

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Feeling fatigued from his busy schedule, Hardy decided to take a break and visit Rocky Mount, where he owned 8,000 acres of land in the Rocky Mountains. The Rocky Mountain Mineral Water Company and a new ranch were located there.

Los Angeles had mild winters, but reports from the ranch mentioned heavy snow in the Rockies. Hardy thought it would be refreshing to spend some time at his holiday house there. 

Adams, the manager of the Rocky Mountain Mineral Water Factory, had already built a holiday house at the foot of the mountain. Hardy had promised to visit, and now seemed like the perfect time.

He contacted Adams and planned his visit with Ava, who was excited about the prospect of snow.

Upon arrival at the Rocky Mountain Mineral Water Company, they were greeted by Adams, who inquired about their needs.

"No need for extra staff. I just want a quiet retreat for a couple of days," Hardy said.

They changed into appropriate clothing and hiked through the thick snow to the holiday house, taking in the stunning winter scenery. After more than two hours of hiking, they arrived at the house, shook off the snow, and started a fire in the fireplace.

Together, they prepared dinner from the fully stocked refrigerator, enjoying a cozy meal with French red wine. The warmth of the cabin, the delicious food, and the serene snowfall outside created a perfect atmosphere of relaxation.

As they settled in for the evening, the tranquility of the snow-covered mountains and the simple joy of their surroundings provided a profound sense of happiness and peace.

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