Episode 132

Elizabeth settled onto the couch, immediately considering the complexities of Gracie's situation. When the conversation turned to Elijah, she cautiously referred to him as a friend. Fidgeting with a bottle of mineral water, she struggled to open it before releasing a deep breath.

“I need to settle a debt with this friend soon,” she said. “Without it, there’s no connection, and it’s making things awkward.”

Ruby’s expression became thoughtful. “I’ve just bought a house, so I’m a little short on cash right now…” she trailed off, then brightened. “Wait—I just remembered! There’s a script company desperately seeking writers. They’re paying well because their client is demanding, but their current writers aren't meeting expectations. Maybe that’s something you could do?”

Ruby pulled out her phone, displaying the script company’s website and the manager’s social media profile to Elizabeth. Elizabeth examined the screen, nodding thoughtfully.

“This does look promising,” she remarked.

Ruby smiled. “I’ve known the owner for ages. There shouldn’t be any problems. They’re just starting out, so they haven’t attracted top-tier writers yet, but they pay generously.”

Elizabeth’s lips tightened slightly, a thoughtful expression on her face. Observing this, Ruby crossed her legs and tapped ash from her cigarette into an ashtray.

“I’m guessing you value your pen name, Katrina Spencer, and don’t want to use it for quick cash,” Ruby remarked knowingly. “Here’s my suggestion: create a new profile and introduce yourself to the company as a newcomer. I’ll back you up and get you an opportunity to submit a sample script. The pay might not be as high as what Katrina earns, but it should be enough to tide you over.”

Ruby’s reassurance eased Elizabeth’s anxiety. “Ruby, you’ve been incredibly supportive,” Elizabeth said gratefully. She immediately created a new WhatsApp account.

Ruby waved off the thanks with a chuckle. “Don’t mention it! You’re not just my artist; you’re my friend. Besides, if you’re delayed and it holds up filming, that affects me too. These scripts have a standard structure; they’re more like products than literary masterpieces, and they don’t require much creative flair. With your writing skills, this should be easy.”

Ruby then sent Elizabeth’s new WhatsApp information to the scriptwriting agency. Respecting Ruby’s recommendation, they quickly sent Elizabeth the sample script details and suggested she take cues from Katrina’s style, which their clients favored. This spared Elizabeth the trouble of concealing her own distinct style.

With the matter resolved, Ruby stood to leave. “I’m off then. Work on that sample script, and call me if you need anything.”