"Looking for me? What for?"

"I'm not sure. She said she wanted to talk to you in person. It seems important."

Gwenda raised her eyebrows. "Okay, bring her in."

After a while, Hattie brought the visitor to Gwenda's office. Gwenda observed the woman, who remained seated. The woman, appearing to be in her thirties, wore a stylish black suit that covered her ankles, high heels, and exuded an aura of assertive coolness. "Hello, I'm Eloise Graham."

Eloise extended her hand to initiate the conversation. Gwenda stood, shook Eloise's hand, and said, "Hello, I'm Gwenda Evans. Please, have a seat."

Eloise sat down immediately. Gwenda signaled to Hattie for coffee, then smiled at Eloise. "May I ask why you're looking for me?"

"I'm here for the job." Eloise produced her resume without further pleasantries.

Gwenda's eyebrows rose slightly. This was her first encounter with such a straightforward individual. "Let me have a look."

Gwenda carefully reviewed Eloise's resume. A quick scan revealed Eloise's impressive accomplishments: a prestigious university degree, employment at an elite talent management company, and a track record of discovering top-tier artists who were still successful today. Eloise seemed a poor fit for Gwenda's small studio.

Putting down the resume, Gwenda asked directly, "Miss Graham, your resume is impressive. But I'm curious—why do you want to join our studio?"

"A contact recommended me," Eloise smiled. "August Reed."

"My cousin?" Gwenda was astonished.

"Yes. After leaving my previous job, I wanted a career change. August tried to dissuade me but ultimately recommended your studio. So, I decided to give it a try."

"May I ask why you left your previous company?" Gwenda was intrigued.

"Our ideas on collaboration didn't align," Eloise replied, offering no further explanation.

This wasn't entirely surprising to Gwenda. Despite her cool demeanor, Eloise clearly possessed both talent and character; she'd likely resign if she felt undervalued.

"How could you know our ideas on collaboration would be compatible?"

Eloise smiled. "I did my research. You single-handedly promoted Cecilia to her current position in just a few months. You're a capable employer, not average. I prefer working with capable people."

"You flatter me," Gwenda said, slightly embarrassed. Regaining her composure, she continued, "Our studio does need talented individuals. Since my cousin recommended you, I'm inclined to say yes. What are your salary requirements?"

"I prefer payment based on results. Let's discuss salary after you've seen my work."

Gwenda was amazed by Eloise's confidence. After a moment's consideration, she nodded. "Very well. One more question."

"Go ahead."

"What resources do you bring?" This was Gwenda's primary concern.

Eloise chuckled. "By resources, do you mean artists? Directors, producers, or endorsements?"

"All of the above?"

"Essentially. I've been in this industry long enough to have a little of everything."

"Wonderful! You're exactly the kind of talent I need!" Gwenda was relieved. "When can you start?"

"Anytime!"

Gwenda appreciated Eloise's directness. "Great! I won't waste time with further questions. Your salary will be based on your previous company's standards. Further raises will depend on your contributions to the studio's growth."

"Agreed," Eloise replied.

"Shall we begin now?"

"Certainly."

Gwenda called Hattie over. "Help Miss Graham with the employment paperwork. She's our newest staff member."

Hattie, though surprised, remained composed, simply nodding and escorting Eloise.

As soon as Eloise left, Gwenda called August. The call connected quickly.

"How did it go? You called about Eloise, right?"