The owner wrung his hands, his brow furrowed with concern. “There’s a problem—the writer is demanding a sixty percent advance.”

Sandra rolled her eyes, exasperated. “Then just pay her. Honestly, it’s rare to find real talent. Why the hesitation?”

Flashing a strained smile, the owner muttered, “Well, it’s complicated. Our firm hasn’t been securing many contracts, and we’re short on funds for such a hefty advance.”

“You could have led with that,” Sandra replied. “Look, if it’s just money, it’s hardly an issue. Take care of what’s important without wasting time!”

Checking her phone, Sandra saw her balance was slightly above one hundred thousand. Her finances were mostly tied up in investments, leaving her with limited readily available cash. After considering it, she messaged Elijah on WhatsApp: “Elijah, I’ve found an exceptional script. Unfortunately, the author insists on a hefty sixty percent upfront.”

Elijah replied quickly, his curiosity evident: “How much?”

“Six hundred thousand.”

Raising the price wasn't her priority. Her ambition extended far beyond mere hundreds of thousands; she yearned to become Mrs. James.

Meanwhile, Elizabeth waited anxiously, her patience wearing thin. Just as she decided to abandon the deal, her phone buzzed—a WhatsApp notification displaying an electronic contract. The script company owner’s message was succinct: “Kindly examine the contract. Upon your signature, I’ll initiate the funds transfer immediately.”

Elizabeth carefully reviewed the contract. Satisfied, she signed it decisively. Moments later, a notification announced a substantial deposit of six hundred thousand dollars.