Realizing the hesitation in her voice, Ivy decided to prob her into actions, âIâm not gonna lie but our production isnât exactly big-time, but thereâs decent money behind it. If you are interested, Iâll just reach out to other actresses.â
As soon as she said this, she made a move to hang up the call.
Clara, sensing the opportunity slipping away, quickly piped up, âWait! Hold on a sec, director! I didnât mean that! I just havenât seen your script yet so I donât know if the role is a good fit for me, you know?â
âYouâre welcome to come and give a walk-through if you are interested. We really think youâd be perfect for this part.â
After being turned down by numerous crews, Clara was thrilled to get praise. Someone saw me finally!
She thought.
âOh, well, in that case, Iâll give it a shot!â she exclaimed.
âGreat! Iâll send you the details for the audition. See you there, Ms. Dunhill,â Ivy said before ending the call.
Later, Ivy headed to the study. She took a moment to mentally prepare herself before knocking on the door.
âCome in.â
With permission granted, she pushed the door open. Balfour was buried in his work in front of his computer, deeply engaged in work. She asked tentatively, âIâm not interrupting, am I?â
âTake a seat first,â Balfour said without looking up from his work, gesturing to a stool nearby. âGive me ten minutes.â
Ivy nodded and sat down quietly, watching him.
Balfour, engrossed in his work, seemed a world away from his usual icy demeanor. In these moments, he exuded a sense of maturity and reliability that was comforting.
âWhatâs up?â About ten minutes later, Balfour closed his laptop and turned to Ivy.
Snapped out of her reverie, Ivy blurted, âUh⦠I need a favor.â
âWhat now?â Balfour leaned back in his chair, wearily massaging his forehead. âI told Quinton that you can go directly to him for some issues.â
Seeing his gesture, concern flickered in Ivyâs eyes, âDo you have a headache?â
âNo, what do you need?â
Ivy didnât press further about his well-being but got to the point of her visit, âQuinton found out that the person behind the leaks is my half-sister Clara. I want to teach her a lesson so I need to borrow a studio and find some extras. Can you help me out?â
âA studio? What are you planning?â Balfourâs eyes narrowed, his gaze piercing as he looked at her.
Ivy said, âI want to give her a taste of her own medicine.â
It was the first time Balfour had seen such an expression on her face-not her usual sweet, sensible look, but showing a hint of mischief.
Ivy felt shy noticing his constant gaze, âUm⦠why are you looking at me like that, Mr. Howard? Is there something on my face?â
âNever mind.â Balfour stowed away his gaze, âI can help. But tell me, what exactly are you planning to do?â
âMy plan isnât fully baked yet. I need to think it through before I can tell you.â
Seeing her like this, Balfour decided not to pry further, âIf thatâs the thing, then go to Quinton. Heâll handle it all for you.â
With Balfourâs word, Ivy felt reassured.
Thanks, Mr. Howard. When everythingâs sorted, I owe you dinner.â
With that, Ivy turned and left the room.