The Tyrant Billionaire

Occidental Petroleum had been poorly managed for many years. If Hammer hadn't bought it later, it probably would have gone bankrupt. But precisely because of Hammer's management, it became one of the "Seven Sisters" in the oil industry.

Hardy called Andy.

"Andy, find someone to acquire 'Occidental Petroleum.' I'll have Henry give you the information," Hardy said.

"Boss, you want to get involved in the oil industry. This industry has great prospects, but there are too many big players ahead, making business tough," Andy replied.

"I know. Occidental Petroleum is a small company with a market value of less than $1 million. They have over 3,000 acres of land in Long Beach, mostly by the sea, with several small islands. The scenery there is nice, with continuous beaches. Even if we don't operate oil fields, it could later be turned into a resort or a wealthy residential area."

"Spending a little over a million, even if there's no oil, holding onto the land will definitely increase its value. Also Long Beach will be one of Los Angeles' resort destinations in later years."

"And also, help me contact a person, Armand Hammer. Tell him I'm very interested in the Angus cattle they're raising, and set up a meeting," Hardy said.

"Ah, boss, you're thinking of running a ranch and raising cattle now?"

Andy was full of surprise. His boss always had such whimsical ideas.

"Did you forget we still have 8,000 acres of land at the foot of the Rockies in New Mexico? Although we didn't find any minerals there, the pasture is lush and very suitable for raising cattle. When those cattle eat the rich grass and drink Rocky Mountain spring water, the meat quality will definitely be excellent. Once our chain supermarkets are established, we can supply them with our own beef."

"Got it, boss. I'll make the arrangements," Andy replied.

Hardy put down the phone and smiled.

As for these arrangements, only he knew the purpose. Finding an excuse to make contact and meet might just rope in that business genius to work for him.

Whether it works or not, he won't lose out anyway.

...

The Middle East war raged on with intensity, yet it had no effect on MGM company across the ocean. Life here continued in a state of peace and prosperity.

Ava Gardner's film Once a Thief had been in theaters for over two months and finally ended its run a few days ago. The box office figures revealed that, just in the United States, it had surpassed thirty million dollars, reaching a total of 30.58 million dollars.

It was the highest grossing film of the year, with the previous top film only making just over five million dollars. Not only that, Once A Thief also became the highest grossing film in nearly a decade, second only to Gone with the Wind in terms of box office revenue, temporarily ranking second in film history.

The lead actors, including Ava Gardner and Cary Grant, saw their statuses rise significantly. Moreover, they appeared on the "Super Idol" talent show, gaining high visibility and becoming some of the most popular actors of the year.

The film's success, combined with Ava Gardner being the most popular singer of the year and a mentor on "Super Idol," made her one of the biggest stars in Hollywood.

However, in Hardy's eyes, this female star was merely a kitten. Hardy was watching the "Super Idol" talent show that aired tonight, with Ava lying on his lap.

Hardy's hand rested on Ava's head, gently rubbing her hair.

This episode of "Super Idol" had officially determined the 32 contestants who would advance to the semifinals. From the initial auditions, which selected over two hundred singers, through three rounds of harsh eliminations, only these 32 remained.

All thirty two have been signed by HD Talent Agency if you weren't signed, you won't qualify for the top four no matter how good you are.

The exposure gained from participating in this show was already substantial, and the contestants could easily earn money for the company. With further development, they could become cash cows.

Among these thirty two was, of course, Marilyn Monroe.

After some time of training, Monroe's singing ability had markedly improved. She was now capable of performing on stage, although to professional musicians, she was still considered a mediocre singer. Nevertheless, her captivating allure was undeniable.

The agency had assigned people to provide Monroe with more in depth training. Her specialty was her sex appeal, and they maximized this trait. After months of training, Monroe's sensual beauty was fully unleashed, rivaling her peak years in the future.

Every time Monroe appeared on the talent show, the audience would erupt in enthusiastic cheers, especially from the men.

The TV station received the most messages for Monroe.

Of course, they were all from men.

Although Monroe had not yet debuted, she had already earned a special nickname:

"American Sweetheart."

While other contestants also received continuous cheers, Monroe's appearance would amplify the applause several times over, as if the audience wanted to tear down the studio ceiling.

"Monroe, sweetheart, I love you."

"Ahhh Marilyn."

Many men screamed in excitement.

Tonight, Monroe wore a spaghetti strap long dress that exposed her entire fragrant shoulder. The dress was very short, revealing her full, rounded thighs, and she wore a pair of crystal high heels.

She held a long microphone in one hand, tilted her chin slightly, and cast a slightly disdainful glance at the men below. This simple gesture made countless men scream once more.

The music started, slow and melodious.

Monroe's body began to sway gracefully with the music, the tassels and sequins of her dress sparkling intermittently.

She began to sing a song full of rhythm, her pace neither too fast nor too slow, always teasing and alluring.

To put it in a simple word, she was just to seductive.

The songs Monroe performed were specifically crafted by the music company for her. Unlike others who received songs and then fit them, Monroe's songs were tailored to match her.