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Princess Elizabeth visited her parents' quarters. King George VI lay in bed, weak and gaunt from his illness. As she approached, her mother Queen Elizabeth looked up expectantly.
"What do you plan to do next?" Queen Elizabeth asked.
Punishing Hardy wasn't an option. The laws of today's world couldn't be ignored, and the royal family's influence was limited in matters of personal conduct, especially involving someone of Hardy's stature. Hardy's wealth and status made him a powerful figure, comparable to or even surpassing the wealth of old American fortunes.
"I think the best course of action is to marry them," Elizabeth said. "Hardy is a suitable match for Margaret, and she clearly has strong feelings for him."
"And does Hardy agree?" Queen Elizabeth asked.
"I haven't discussed it with him yet. I wanted to consult with you both first," Elizabeth said.
The royal family didn't typically concern themselves with lovers or affairs, but this situation was different. It was crucial to resolve the scandal in a way that would uphold the family's honor and Margaret's future.
King George VI, though rarely vocal, smiled at the thought of his daughter's upcoming marriage.
"Margaret's my little girl, and seeing her married before my time is something I cherish. Hardy, while not someone I know well, seems capable and responsible. This is Margaret's choice, after all."
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Inside Princess Margaret's quarters, she was lounging in pajamas, her hair disheveled, watching a TV series from ABC TV. The British audience was now enjoying content from Hardy's network, including popular shows like "Live-Action Armor Warriors."
Margaret was surprised when a maid announced Hardy's arrival.
"Hardy's here?" she asked, jumping up excitedly. Realizing she looked unkempt, she quickly asked the maid for help to prepare.
Hardy waited for Margaret, reflecting on the sudden seriousness of their situation. When she finally appeared, her face lit up with joy.
"How did you come here?" Margaret exclaimed.
"I came as soon as I heard. Let's talk inside," Hardy said.
Margaret led him to her private area, where she greeted him with a warm embrace and kiss.
"Are you really pregnant?" Hardy asked gently.
Margaret nodded, smiling shyly. "I'm feeling sluggish and sick, and my sister confirmed it."
Hardy touched her belly with tenderness. "This is wonderful news. We'll figure everything out together."
Margaret whispered in his ear, "It must be from that time."
Hardy grinned. "You're right, and I wouldn't change a thing."
Margaret was concerned about her family's approval. Hardy reassured her, saying, "If they don't agree, we can elope. I'll rescue you from any tower they might lock you in."
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The British royal family announced Hardy and Margaret's engagement on September 16, 1952. The Times of the United Kingdom and the Global Times of the United States reported the news, overshadowing even the U.S. election campaign. The world buzzed with excitement and envy.
In the UK, people were surprised but supportive, noting Hardy's impressive status as a British viscount and wealthy American. In the U.S., the marriage was celebrated as a pinnacle of success, embodying the American Dream. European countries, Japan, and Hong Kong also reprinted the story.
Margaret was thrilled about their future together. "Where will we live after the wedding?" she asked.
"Anywhere you want—Britain, America, Cayman, Penang," Hardy said. "Or we can rotate through them all."
Margaret laughed. "That sounds perfect."
They also discussed their future children. Hardy, an orphan, hoped for many children to surround him in his old age. "It'll be lively and joyful," he said.
The engagement preparations were underway, with the royal family handling arrangements. Hardy, meanwhile, was in the UK, attending events and meetings. At a reception, he met Prime Minister Churchill, who sought support for Britain's economic recovery. Hardy promised cooperation, reflecting his commitment to strengthening ties with Britain.
The British royal family also announced they would grant Hardy the title of hereditary earl, further solidifying his status.
Hardy's life was now a legend of wealth and romance, achieving the pinnacle of success and marrying into royalty.