Chapter 33: Killing is Easy
After General Manager Cohen left, Hardy toured the film company, visiting various departments. He quickly familiarized himself with the situation and eventually arrived at the Performing Arts Department.
The Performing Arts Department was responsible for signing artists, training them, arranging performances, and selecting actors for movies.
Thomas, the director of the Performing Arts Department, stood up with a smile when he saw Hardy. "Assistant Hardy, welcome to the company. If you have any questions about the Performing Arts Department, feel free to ask."
After some discussion, Hardy inquired, "What are the requirements for signing a new actor?"
Thomas explained, "We look for attractive individuals with potential. We offer an initial contract, followed by training. The company recruits more than a dozen new artists each year, but so far, none have become major stars—most remain in the third or fourth tier."
"What does the initial contract entail? Do the artists get paid?"
"Yes, they receive $40 per week and 19% of their performing income. The company takes 90%, and the contract duration ranges from 6 to 10 years. However, as the artist gains fame, their share increases depending on their strength," Thomas said.
It was a harsh deal, akin to a vampire's contract.
Despite this, many still eagerly enter the industry, sacrificing much to improve their fame.
"I have a friend who is very interested in joining the entertainment industry. She would start as a junior actor," Hardy mentioned.
Thomas understood immediately. Hardy, being the newly appointed assistant to the boss, was a senior management member, and Thomas saw an opportunity to establish a good relationship.
"No problem. If your friend is available, she can come in for an interview. Although our contract quota for this year is full, we'll start a new contract plan in 1946. If she's suitable, she can sign with us then," Thomas offered with a smile.
"Great. We can discuss it further when the time comes. I'll go check out the other departments now," Hardy said, extending his hand.
Thomas shook it warmly.
In many places—whether in politics, business, or workplaces—the sentiment of human relationships and sophistication holds true.
Back in his office, Hardy received detailed information about the company, including financial status, personnel, and equipment reserves. To truly understand a company, starting with this information was the quickest route. Hardy reviewed the data carefully.
After arriving in this world, Hardy discovered that not only had his physical recovery abilities greatly improved, but his memory was also significantly better. While he hadn't reached a photographic memory level, he could easily remember 40% to 50% of what he read. With a few reviews, he could recall most of it with firm clarity.
This could be considered a significant advantage.
By the time Hardy finished reviewing the information, it was dark outside.
He checked the time: 6:30 PM.
Should he go to the Xiacheng factory?
That seemed fine.
Returning to Bill's place for the night?
It might be better to visit Marisa and share the good news that she could sign with Noah's Ark. She would likely be very happy to hear that.
Hardy drove to Marisa's house, but the window was dark. She might not be home.
He rang the doorbell.
Moments later, Marisa opened the door, looking flustered. She quickly let him in.
"I didn't expect you to come over," she said, closing the door behind them.
Marisa turned her face away from Hardy, trying to hide it from view.
But Hardy noticed everything.
Her eyes were slightly red and swollen, indicating she had been crying. He also saw bruises on her neck.
Hardy frowned. "Marisa, what happened?"
"Nothing," Marisa replied evasively.
She didn't want to burden Hardy with her problems, believing that as a small-time gang leader, he wouldn't be able to solve her troubles.
"Tell me what happened, Marisa. Maybe I can help. Some things are too heavy to bear alone," Hardy said gently, stroking her hair.
Feeling cared for, Marisa's eyes welled up, and tears began to flow freely.
Between sobs, Marisa explained the situation. Hardy's expression grew serious, his eyes narrowing with a cold light.
Brad Sanders and the Persian Cat Model Performing Arts Company. He noted the name carefully.
Marisa's tears flowed as she spoke, the crystalline drops gliding down her cheeks under the light, creating a poignant scene.
"I've decided to give up on my dreams of fame. If I'm not an actor or singer, that jerk Sanders won't be able to control me anymore," Marisa said through her tears.
"Starting tomorrow, I won't attend acting or vocal classes. It will save me a lot of money," she added, her tears continuing to flow.
Hardy embraced Marisa, letting her rest her head on his shoulder. "No, you should still pursue your passion. It's something you love, isn't it? I'd like to hear you sing. Besides, Christmas is coming soon. How do you plan to spend it?"
The sudden change of topic startled Marisa. "I'm alone in Los Angeles, so I'm not sure."
"I'm alone too."
"Are you going to spend Christmas with me?" Marisa asked, looking up with tearful eyes.
"Will you give me a gift?" Hardy asked with a smile.
"Of course! What would you like?"
Hardy shook his head. "You can't ask for a Christmas gift; it should remain a mystery. I hope it's something special that I'll love."
"Then I'll make sure to find a gift that you'll really like," Marisa said with a smile.
Marisa finally calmed down.
She prepared a simple dinner.
They lay in bed together, holding each other. They didn't do much—just chatted softly until Marisa fell asleep in Hardy's arms.
---
The next day, Hardy drove to the Xiacheng factory.
Except for Sean Ryder, who was handling deliveries, Henry and the others were present.
"Any updates from the Spanish Gang?" Hardy asked.
"They're still searching for information about the casino robbery and have even offered a $10,000 reward. But we covered our tracks well, leaving no clues. The Spaniards haven't been able to track us down," Henry replied.
Leo added, "Boss, Kerry and I overheard that Spain is expanding its drug business. There's a big drug deal coming up, but we don't have all the details yet."
The Spanish casino had lost over $200,000 due to the robbery and was unable to operate normally, causing significant losses. Dani might be expanding the drug trade to compensate.
"Leo, Kerry, investigate this lead but be careful," Hardy instructed.
"Understood, boss."
Turning to Henry and Matthew, Hardy said, "You two need to investigate a man named Brad Sanders, the manager of the Persian Cat Model Performing Arts Company on Sycamore Street."
"Got it, boss. Is he important?" Henry asked.
"Yes, very important," Hardy confirmed.
He didn't rush into action.
Killing is easy.
It may not always be the best outcome.
As the saying goes, only by knowing yourself and the enemy can you win a hundred battles.
---