Terry genuinely looked troubled, and Lila's guard eased ever so slightly.
"You haven't pursued directing much in the past few years, but the short films you've directed have gotten good feedback. Plus, you've got Taylor Foster and Samuel Grant backing you up, so there's no question about your ability."
"But I can't offer you the same deal that Mr. Grant could. Honestly, I'm asking for a favor here. Don't feel pressured. I understand that everyone works for money. Just think it over. I'm still looking for investors, and you have some time until you wrap things up. I'll leave the script with you. If you're interested, please leave me a message."
"Oh, you have two new actors under you, right? If you see roles that suit them, we can arrange something. But as for the lead roles... Well, they're both newcomers, so… "
His words stopped there. Lila watched him nervously scratch his head, yet his words and expression seemed sincere.
After a moment's hesitation, Lila said, "I'll take a look at the script. If it's suitable, I'll let you know."
As if remembering something, she added, "But whether this works out or not, it's between us. No one else."
Terry laughed heartily. "Fair enough! You're doing me a huge favor here. Once I stand on my own two feet, I'll help you boost those newcomers to stardom. We'll make it big together. How about it?"
Lila's eyes lingered on his face, looking for any sign of dishonesty, but she couldn't find any.
After a brief pause, she smiled and said, "Then I'll thank you in advance on their behalf, Mr. Jones."
Her gaze was compassionate, her skin fair with a mild blush, and her lips were naturally pink. Her delicate, oval face brightened up with a smile that was both beautiful and appealing.
Terry had always known she was beautiful, but seeing her up close like this still caught him off guard. For a moment, he nearly lost his composure.
Realizing he was distracted, his heart skipped a beat. He instinctively looked toward a black car parked in the distance.
Lila attempted to follow his gaze, but Terry instantly turned away and pretended to look unconcerned.
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: too late for a second chance novel (Lila and Dorian)