“You must trust me on this one,” Ariana conveyed to Sarah with a serene voice and a pat on her shoulder. Then, she turned her back to address Donna.

Observing the two women whispering for what seemed like an eternity, Donna presumed the subject of their conversation. But who wouldn't be swayed by such a premium resource, especially when it was right in front of their noses?

Ariana's approach suggested that she had reached a decision, prompting Donna to put away her phone and feign busyness.

"Have you made up your mind? If Sarah doesn't want to go, I'll give the opportunity to someone else," she inquired.

Ariana's response was unwavering.

"Sarah will go. Just bring out the contract.

Where is it?" she asked, taking a pen and seal from the desk.

Donna's delight was unmistakable; she beamed from ear to ear. She quickly took out the contract from her bag, laid it on the desk, and urged, "Take a look. If everything is in order, sign at the bottom.”

Fearful of any potential deceit, Ariana perused the contract meticulously, from start to finish. Once satisfied, she passed it to Sarah for her signature.

Donna promptly pocketed the signed document as if wary of Ariana's possible backtracking and proclaimed, "I have to go now. You can wait for the notice."

Apprehensive, Sarah regarded Ariana with a worried expression and posed a concern.

"What about your bet? Look at Donna's expression. She's as cunning as a rat, and it's evident that she got what she wanted."

Ariana exhaled and reassured, “Don't fret. I'll find another way. You won't need me for these three months, and I'll be scouting for new talents."

"I'm worried that Donna won't give you any more opportunities," Sarah said. She knew Donna's methods well after working with her for over a decade. Donna had become even more arrogant and audacious since Jasper joined the company.

With her mind weighed down by worries, Ariana let out a deep sigh, unsure of what her next move should be.

"I suppose I'll have to wait and see. Jasper's artists haven't made much money recently, and his biggest investment, Brielle, is in hot water. At least I'm not tangled up in any lawsuits, which puts me in a better position than him," she mused.

Upon hearing this, Sarah's tense shoulders loosened a bit as she replied, "Okay, I'll head home to pack and get ready for the performance."

"alright," Ariana responded. She saw Sarah off at the parking lot, bought a cup of coffee, and made her way back to the office. Lost in thought, she completely forgot to hit the elevator button.

Ahand suddenly appeared, pressing the button for her.

It was only at that moment that Ariana realized the reason why the elevator never arrived—she had forgotten to push the button.