The Reclaimed Rose (Annalise and Steven)

"Did we hit the jackpot?"

Eric waited until Zane opened the office door, and we all stepped inside. Once the door was closed and after ensuring that no one could overhear, he finally said, "You guessed right!"

I blinked in surprise. "What happened?"

Eric took a few deep breaths to calm himself before blurting out, "The comic department has been actively promoting your series all this while. Maybe their marketing worked really well, or maybe your comic is exceptionally good.

"The number of readers has been skyrocketing! Some readers are even recommending your books on their own now."

I was stunned.

Eric continued, "Your comic sales have multiplied several times compared to last month. Even the merchandise and plush toys are selling like crazy!"

My heart pounded. Last month's sales had already exceeded my expectations. I had even braced myself for a potential decline, but the sales had shot up.

Eric leaned in and continued, "Do you know what this means?"

I was momentarily speechless. After a pause, I shook my head honestly. "What does it mean?"

Eric immediately explained, "Next month, your post-tax income will multiply several times over."

Last month, I had already taken home over a million. If it increased several times again, that meant I'd be earning at least two million dollars. It took me a moment to calm down before I finally found my voice.

"Am I really making that much?"

"Of course." Eric chuckled and continued, "It's all thanks to your consistent updates and the comic department's dedicated efforts. That's why we're seeing such amazing results.noveldrama

"And this isn't even the peak yet. Once the movie is released globally, the comic and merchandise sales will skyrocket across different countries. You'll be making even more money then."

Just then, Eric smacked his forehead. "Oh, right! I almost forgot there are still a few major markets I haven't reached out to yet.

"I'll contact their publishers right away. As for the merchandise, I'll see if we can collaborate with local distributors to expand sales."

It was best to produce the merchandise domestically to help the local job market.

Just as Eric was about to step out, Zane called out, "Hold on."

With one foot already outside, he paused and turned back. "Do you need anything else?"

"Yes." Zane had been considering this for a while and had finally come up with a well-structured plan.

He spoke with his usual composure.

"Once the movie is released, it'll be a golden opportunity for publishers and merchandise distributors worldwide to capitalize on the hype. That means we can set higher standards for our partners.

Eric remained focused on Zane. Whenever he spoke in this tone, it meant he had already mapped out a solid course of action. All Eric needed to do was listen and execute.

Zane continued, "For instance, we can require them to develop a dedicated marketing strategy to accompany the release."

Eric quickly caught on to Zane's idea. Zane explained further, "That way, we can fully leverage the movie's momentum and maximize our returns. What do you think?"

Eric nodded in agreement. "That makes perfect sense. The better the preparation, the more we stand to gain.

"Got it, Mr. Huxham. I'll inform them."

"Also..." Zane had been keeping an eye on emerging market trends. He glanced at Eric and asked, "Are you familiar with designer collectibles?"