Chapter 298: Then Don't Blame Me for Bragging

Han Yezhen emerged from her room in a simple yet elegant woolen dress, complemented by a fur shawl. Her hair was styled in soft curls, and she wore a small round hat. Around her neck hung a gem necklace that Hardy had given her.

"Do you like it?" she asked, a hint of anticipation in her voice.

"You look beautiful!" Hardy replied, genuinely impressed.

Victor, standing by, opened the car door for them. Despite his high standing in Hong Kong, he maintained a respectful demeanor as Hardy's subordinate.

The convoy made its way to the Governor's Mansion, located just a few kilometers from Hardy's residence. The mansion, sprawling over 24,000 square meters with a main building covering 7,000 square meters, served both as the Governor's residence and a key venue for official receptions.

As they arrived, they were met by a fleet of vehicles from HSBC, Wells Fargo, Global Times, and ABC Radio. The distinguished guests entered the Governor's Mansion together.

Outside the main building, Governor Grantham, along with the Chief Secretary, the Secretary for Justice, members of the Legislative Council, and several high-ranking officials from both local and international firms, awaited them. The reception was as grand as one would expect for a high-profile guest like the British Prime Minister.

Despite being a businessman, Hardy's influence was significant enough to warrant such a reception. The British Prime Minister had even sent a secret telegram to Governor Grantham, urging him to build a strong relationship with Hardy, hoping for a US dollar loan to help alleviate the UK's financial difficulties.

Hardy assisted Han Yezhen out of the car, and they were greeted by a crowd that included Victor, HSBC President Sanders, Wells Fargo's Sandy Weir, the Global Times President, and others. The guests applauded warmly as Hardy and Han Yezhen were introduced.

Governor Grantham approached Hardy, shaking his hand and then introducing his female companion. He greeted Han Yezhen with a polite kiss on the back of her hand.

"Hello, Miss Han," he said courteously.

Grantham then introduced Hardy to various Hong Kong officials. After the formalities, the group moved inside for the evening's events.

Before the cocktail party, Grantham invited Hardy to speak. Hardy took the stage with a confident smile, ready to share his experiences.

"Twenty-five days ago, I attended a banquet at 10 Downing Street, hosted by Prime Minister Attlee. We discussed future investments and developments in the UK," Hardy began.

The audience's respect for Hardy grew. He had been consulted by the Prime Minister and his cabinet.

"Fifteen days ago, along with David Rockefeller, I acquired more than half of HSBC's shares and became the new chairman. I'm here to oversee HSBC and the Hardy Group's operations in Hong Kong."

"Twelve days ago, I was honored to be invited by His Majesty George VI and Princess Elizabeth to Buckingham Palace. We had meaningful discussions about Britain's future," Hardy continued.

The attendees regarded Hardy with renewed admiration. His experiences were extraordinary, placing him in a league above most.

"Seven days ago, I returned to the U.S. for President Johnson's re-election ceremony."

"Today, I'm here in Hong Kong, and I'm deeply honored by Governor Grantham's invitation and the warm reception from everyone tonight. Thank you all."

The audience responded with another round of enthusiastic applause.