Chapter 1988
Realizing the hesitation in her voice, Ivy decided to prob her into actions, “I’m not gonna lie but our production isn’t exactly big-time, but there’s decent money behind it. If you are interested, I’ll just reach out to other actresses.”
As soon as she said this, she made a move to hang up the call.
Clara, sensing the opportunity slipping away, quickly piped up, “Wait! Hold on a sec, director! I didn’t mean that! I just haven’t seen your script yet so I don’t know if the role is a good fit for me, you know?”
“You’re welcome to come and give a walk-through if you are interested. We really think you’d be perfect for this part.”
After being turned down by numerous crews, Clara was thrilled to get praise. Someone saw me finally! She thought.
“Oh, well, in that case, I’ll give it a shot!” she exclaimed.
“Great! I’ll send you the details for the audition. See you there, Ms. Dunhill,” Ivy said before ending the call.
Later, Ivy headed to the study. She took a moment to mentally prepare herself before knocking on the door.
“Come in.”
With permission granted, she pushed the door open. Balfour was buried in his work in front of his computer, deeply engaged in work. She asked tentatively, “I’m not interrupting, am I?”
“Take a seat first,” Balfour said without looking up from his work, gesturing to a stool nearby. “Give me ten minutes.”
Ivy nodded and sat down quietly, watching him.
Balfour, engrossed in his work, seemed a world away from his usual icy demeanor. In these moments, he exuded a sense of maturity and reliability that was comforting.
“What’s up?” About ten minutes later, Balfour closed his laptop and turned to Ivy.
Snapped out of her reverie, Ivy blurted, “Uh… I need a favor.”
“What now?” Balfour leaned back in his chair, wearily massaging his forehead. “I told Quinton that you can go directly to him for some issues.”
Seeing his gesture, concern flickered in Ivy’s eyes, “Do you have a headache?”
“No, what do you need?”
Ivy didn’t press further about his well-being but got to the point of her visit, “Quinton found out that the person behind the leaks is my half-sister Clara. I want to teach her a lesson so I need to borrow a studio and find some extras. Can you help me out?”
“A studio? What are you planning?” Balfour’s eyes narrowed, his gaze piercing as he looked at her.
Ivy said, “I want to give her a taste of her own medicine.”
It was the first time Balfour had seen such an expression on her face-not her usual sweet, sensible look, but showing a hint of mischief.
Ivy felt shy noticing his constant gaze, “Um… why are you looking at me like that, Mr. Howard? Is there something on my face?”
“Never mind.” Balfour stowed away his gaze, “I can help. But tell me, what exactly are you planning to do?”
“My plan isn’t fully baked yet. I need to think it through before I can tell you.”
Seeing her like this, Balfour decided not to pry further, “If that’s the thing, then go to Quinton. He’ll handle it all for you.”
With Balfour’s word, Ivy felt reassured.
Thanks, Mr. Howard. When everything’s sorted, I owe you dinner.”
With that, Ivy turned and left the room.
