‘Sorry, I don’t mean to rush you.’ She smiled and forced herself to relax.

‘It’s all right. I’m just trying to think about how we could sell this in a different way. I don’t usually do stock-standard commercial projects anymore –’

‘That’s why I’m here,’ interjected Grace.

He laughed. ‘Let’s get another coffee and talk a bit more.’ He went into the kitchen, returning a few minutes later with two fresh coffees, and sat down.

‘So tell me about you. How come you landed this gig? Are you the exec creative at your agency?’

She bristled for a moment but then saw that no slight was intended. ‘I had meetings with the marketing people and others from the hotel up in Bali and presented them with a pitch. First off, though, I gather MGI liked the package the agency sent them – my bio and demo reel. I have to admit I’m a very keen film person. And I’ve had a few successful campaigns,’ Grace added modestly.

Steve leaned back and sipped his coffee. ‘I’m with you. Movie buff. Storytelling rules. You can tell a story in a thirty-second ad and move people emotionally.’ He tilted his head and asked, ‘Do you want to make movies, too?’

‘Me? No . . . well – I don’t know. I haven’t really thought about it. I just try to bring the heart into each job as a way to connect with the audience. I guess I actually try to hide the sales pitch angle and get to them by entertaining them, capturing their attention so they can be fully engaged with what I’m “selling” them.’

‘It’s not something you can really learn,’ said Steve slowly. ‘Sure, you can follow the trends, the shooting style and imagery, but to make someone put their hand in their pocket . . . that’s the test.’ He put his cup down. ‘I like the way you think, Grace. If you get the job, count me in.’

Grace couldn’t help the smile that flashed across her face. ‘That’s wonderful. Thank you, Steve. I’m so pleased. It’s going to be an exciting project.’

‘Yes, and now comes the best part. Tell me your ideas,’ he said.

Grace straightened in her chair. ‘Well, as I mentioned, the setting is what bowled me over. I would want to make the jungle around the hotel – the natural landscape – a big part of the backdrop to the campaign. You’ll see what I mean when you’re there.’

‘I look forward to it.’

‘How’s your schedule looking?’ She knew this was probably the only remaining hurdle: if he couldn’t fit the job in, they could be back to square one.