“That’s not something we’ve discussed,” I add, forcing calm back into my voice. “Besides, you’re a popular player right now. I’m sure you could get onFIFA. Or your ownFortniteskin.”
“Oh they’ve reached out,” Daniel clarifies. “But all the uses of my client’s likeness have remained under his control and so if you decide on this you would be the first and only company with his likeness. That is if he’s open to it.”
Daniel looks at Jabari.
“I’d be open to it,” Jabari says. “Only if you are, Francine.”
Mara turns to me, eyes bright. “Frankie, this could be huge.”
“His co-sign could do wonders. Marketing wise,” Tasha adds. “And that face would bring in a new audience. It could be the break we’re looking for globally.”
Kai exhales. “Frank… we need this.”
I look around the table.
At my team. At their hope. At their trust.
Then back at Jabari.
I feel cornered.
This isn’t a choice anymore. This is a room full of people whoneedme to say yes.
“You don’t get creative control,” I say firmly. “You don’t become the face of the studio. And this doesn’t turn into a PR circus.”
Daniel nods. “Agreed.”
Jabari nods too.
“Okay. We’ll review the proposal,” I say. “Formally. Once everything looks right… we can move forward.”
Daniel smiles. “Of course.”
?The meeting ends in a blur of polite smiles and professional handshakes I don’t feel present for. I don’t wait for it to fully dissolve. I grab my bag and head straight for the door as the team surrounds Jabari and began discussing timelines and schedules.
Walking out has become my new signature move.
“Miss Campbell?”
Daniel catches me just as I’m about to head down the hallway.
“Just Frankie is good,” I say. “What’s wrong?”
“I— I want to?—”
I cock my eyebrow as I wait for him to collect himself.
“I wanted to ask, what’s the relationship between you and my client?”
Immediately I’m on the defensive.
“He’s my friend's brother. Why?”
“Oh!” He sighs in relief and chuckles lightly. “Oh thank goodness.”
“Am I missing something, Mr.?”
“Daniel will do. And no, no. I was just worried my client got himself caught up in something silly.”
