“Yes, that is evident by the donations made over the past few weeks. Including the sum sent last night.” Daniel’s voice is tight, like he’s annoyed. I guess all these donations are news to him too.
“It was you who donated last night?” I ask, unable to stop myself now.
“Yes,” Jabari replies.
Oh my days…
“How much did he donate?” Leon asks.
“£100,000.” We say it in unison.
The room hums.
“You?” Mara asks, stunned. “You donated that much?”
Jabari nods. “I support indie creators.”
Leon looks like he might levitate.
Daniel steps in smoothly. “Jabari’s interest goes beyond a one-time donation. He’s here to discuss potential sponsorship for this upcoming project.”
Blouse and skirt.
“Sponsorship?” Kai repeats.
“An investment,” Daniel clarifies. “With no creative interference.”
The room erupts quickly:
“This could—”
“Do you know what this means?—”
“Frankie!—”
I lift my hand. “Hold on.”
My chest feels tight. My thoughts are racing, but my face stays composed.
CEO mode on. Damage control activated.
“With the platform you have,” I say, addressing Jabari directly now, “you could sponsor any studio you want. Why this one?”
Why me? Why now?
Jabari doesn’t rush his answer so the room quiets in anticipation.
Daniel answers instead, “We believe RudeGal Gaming is positioned favorably for growth. Both commercially and culturally.”
Leon leans forward, barely containing himself. “Would this include marketing collaboration?”
Jabari shrugs. “If it makes sense.”
“And,” Leon presses, “would you consider… deeper involvement? Likeness. Motion capture? Maybe even a character model?”
My head snaps up. “No!”
Everyone whips their heads together at me, shocked at my quick dismissal of the idea. But Jabari isn’t shocked.
