"Didn't I just tell you? I appreciate your talent!" Gwenda set down her glass and looked at Cecilia earnestly.

Cecilia responded with puzzlement, frowning. "Appreciate? I don't even have a fan base right now, and there are more talented people than me. You've only heard a few of my songs, and you appreciate my talent?"

"No, to me, you're the most talented. I know you compose many of your own songs, and your talents extend far beyond that."

Cecilia was stunned by Gwenda's affirmation. Confused, she asked, "But I've achieved nothing at KG Entertainment all these years. Why would you want me on your team?"

Gwenda shook her head. "I don't care about your past achievements; I care about your future. Sign with me, and I promise you'll be a rising star!" Her words were full of promise.

Cecilia, however, was less optimistic. She smiled awkwardly and said bluntly, "Miss Evans, you sound like you're lying."

Gwenda choked. Everything she'd said was sincere. How had she come across as a liar?

Clearing her throat, Gwenda's expression grew serious. "Cecilia, I sincerely want to give you a better future. You know KG Entertainment's situation—five years, and they've given you nothing. Continuing there will only hold you back. Instead of staying stuck, take a chance with me. Please believe me! I truly want to work with you!"

Anyone hearing such sincerity would be tempted. Cecilia was no exception. She had been overlooked for years, her talent buried. This opportunity was alluring.

Seeing Cecilia's hesitation, Gwenda knew she'd succeeded. Smiling faintly, she said, "You don't need to answer immediately. Your contract still has time; take your time to think about it."

"Can you really help me?" Cecilia, swayed by Gwenda's words, nodded. "Yes, and I promise you'll go viral! Big time!"

"What are the contract terms?" Cecilia had made her decision.

Gwenda considered a moment. "Just one: After signing, all your work will be published exclusively by my studio."

This wasn't a harsh condition for Cecilia; it was entirely acceptable.

"That's all?"

"That's all." After a pause, Gwenda added, "We'll split profits 50/50. I'll handle publicity and commercial affairs; you focus on composing."

"Okay." Cecilia gazed at her with awe. The young woman exuded an inexplicable trustworthiness. Even if she were a liar, Cecilia had nothing left to lose; this was better than wasting time with KG Entertainment. Her path forward was clear.

Gwenda asked, "Any other questions?"

Cecilia smiled softly, shaking her head, her eyes determined. "No."

"Then it's settled. When your contract with KG Entertainment expires, contact me." Gwenda exchanged contact information with her.

The meal ended amicably. Afterward, Gwenda stopped Cecilia from returning to the bridge to sing. "Rest, compose in peace, and forget about KG Entertainment; your contract is almost over."