Chapter 2013
Colton’s earnest tone made it impossible for Ivy to decline without feeling a pang of guilt. She hesitated, struggling to find the right words, before finally mustering the courage to say, “I’m sorry, Director, but I have no experience in acting, and honestly, I’m not sure if I could act at all. I wouldn’t want to hold up your production.”
“Ivy, don’t rush to say no. Hear me out first,” Colton persisted, not ready to give up. He began to outline the benefits of taking the lead role, “If you take on the role of our leading lady, we’re offering a paycheck of three million dollars. I’ll personally see to it that you have an assistant at your beck and call, and you won’t have to worry about a thing while on set.”
Three million dollars?
As fate would have it, that was exactly what Ivy needed most at the moment.
The three million dollars that had seemed so out of reach, that she had racked her brain for, was now being dangled in front of her for just acting in a film.
If she took the role and got the three million, she could pay off her debt to Balfour immediately.
After all, it was just one movie. She could always give it a shot, and if it didn’t work out, she didn’t have to continue.
“Alright,” Ivy finally conceded after much deliberation, bowing to the necessity for the sake of the money and a taste of the actor’s life, “But let me be upfront that I really have no experience. If my performance falls short, you can’t hold it against me.”
Hearing her agreement, Colton’s elation was palpable, “Don’t worry, I trust my judgment and I’ll guide you through it. Now, Ivy, I’ll have Juliana send you the time and place so we can sign the contract and make this official.”
“Sure, just send me the details and I’ll be there.”
With that, the matter was settled. As soon as she hung up, Ivy’s worries returned.
She had agreed for the sake of the three million dollars, but how was she going to explain this to Balfour?
Balfour had always been against her working outside the house, let alone becoming an actress. If word got out that Mrs. Howard was acting in showbiz for money, who knew what kind of stories would circulate about the Howard family?
But it was too late to back out now. She needed to earn that money, no matter what.
Determined to create a pleasant environment to break the news to him, Ivy went out to buy groceries and gave the maid the night off, deciding to cook a full spread herself.
After preparing the meal, Ivy looked over the table laden with delicious-looking dishes and felt a surge of pride, “I might not be confident about other things, but my cooking skills are definitely improving.”
She sat at the dining table, pulling out her phone. It was already six in the evening and there was no sign of Balfour. She sent him a message.
[Balfour, are you coming home tonight?]
Not long after, she received a reply.
[On my way. What’s up?]
Knowing he was on his way home brought a smile to lvy’s face.
[Nothing much, just wondering.]
After sending the message, Ivy set her phone aside and waited patiently in the dining room.
About half an hour later, she heard the sound of a car pulling up outside and, filled with excitement, dashed to the door. Opening it, she saw Balfour walking toward her.
Ivy waved cheerfully at him, “Balfour, you’re finally home.”
Seeing Ivy’s lively and bright demeanor was a novelty for him, and Balfour found it curiously delightful, “What’s going on? You needed me for something?”
