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Novel Catalog
Chapter 55
Cordy watched Zoe leave, her thoughts turning over the events of the afternoon. She had been prepared for a more difficult encounter, but Zoe’s easy-going nature had thrown her off balance in a pleasant way. The actress wasn’t exactly what Cordy expected, but in a good way. There was a realness to Zoe that was hard to ignore, and Cordy couldn’t help but admire her calm professionalism.
Vince, who had been silently observing as usual, gave a quiet nod in her direction as he packed up the materials they had brought for the meeting.
“You think it’ll work out?” he asked, his voice low but pointed.
Cordy considered the question carefully. Zoe was different from the typical high-maintenance celebrities Cordy had dealt with, but that didn’t make her any less of an asset. If anything, it made Zoe even more intriguing. Her genuine interest and willingness to meet for a casual dinner only reaffirmed Cordy’s belief that this was the right move for Starstream.
“I think so,” Cordy said finally, her voice steady. “She’s more grounded than I expected, and I believe she sees the potential in what we’re trying to build.”
Vince nodded. “She seemed receptive to the idea.”
As Cordy turned to walk toward the set’s exit, she couldn’t help but feel a small sense of relief. She had accomplished the first step, and now it was just a matter of seeing if the dinner meeting would seal the deal.
That evening, after a brief but productive day in the office, Cordy arrived at the restaurant where Zoe had chosen to meet. It was a small but upscale establishment, intimate enough for a quiet conversation. As she entered, she spotted Zoe already seated at a table, her back straight, an air of effortless elegance surrounding her. It was clear that Zoe had mastered the art of looking perfectly poised even in a casual setting.
Cordy made her way over, offering a smile as Zoe stood to greet her. “Good evening, Ms. York.”
“Please, call me Zoe,” she replied, gesturing to the seat opposite hers. “You’re right on time.”
Cordy sat down, briefly exchanging pleasantries before the waiter arrived with a bottle of wine. As they both ordered, Zoe leaned in slightly, her gaze more focused now. “So, let’s talk business.”
Cordy appreciated the directness. She had always believed in getting to the point, especially when dealing with people like Zoe who had no patience for pretenses.
“I’ve been following your career for quite some time,” Cordy began. “And I think you’re the perfect fit for what we’re doing at Starstream. I don’t just want you as a brand ambassador—I want you to help shape the future of our brand, to be a part of something that’s more than just a campaign.”
Zoe listened attentively, her expression unreadable, before responding, “That’s an interesting proposition. But you’re asking me to put my name on something bigger than just a contract. You know that, right?”
“I do,” Cordy affirmed. “And I wouldn’t ask it if I didn’t believe in what we’re building. We’re making big moves, and I want you to be a part of it. More than just the face of Starstream, but an integral player in our strategy.”
Zoe paused, taking a sip of her wine, her eyes narrowing slightly as she thought over Cordy’s words. “I appreciate your vision, but what about my time? My schedule is packed, and I don’t take on commitments unless I see the potential.”
Cordy smiled, well aware of the gravity of the request. “I’m not asking for an indefinite commitment—just a two-year partnership. But during that time, you’ll have creative control over your image within the brand. We’ll collaborate on everything from photoshoots to ad campaigns, and I’ll ensure that you have the freedom to do it your way.”
Zoe seemed to consider this, then nodded slowly. “That’s a fair offer. I like the sound of creative freedom.”
“I want you to feel like you’re part of the team, not just a hired face,” Cordy continued. “And I’m happy to negotiate a compensation package that reflects your value to Starstream.”
The conversation shifted to the financial details, and Cordy could see Zoe warming to the idea. What began as a business pitch was quickly turning into a potential partnership.
As the night went on, their conversation flowed more easily, with both women beginning to feel more comfortable with each other. By the end of the evening, Zoe had agreed to think it over, but Cordy knew she was close to closing the deal.
“I’ll have my manager contact you,” Zoe said as they stood to leave, her tone more casual now. “But I’m liking what I’m hearing.”
Cordy smiled, feeling a surge of optimism. “Thank you, Zoe. I’m confident we’ll make something great together.”
As they parted ways, Cordy couldn’t help but reflect on how far she had come. What started as a challenging task had evolved into something far more promising. With Zoe on board, Starstream could be on the brink of something truly special.
The future was looking brighter than ever.