Adam looked at Noah with a flat, bored expression and said, "It is actually none of your business. Just sign the contract."
Noah rolled his eyes and sighed. It really wasn't his business, but he couldn't help thinking that whoever Adam liked was incredibly unfortunate to have caught his attention. He didn't want to waste more energy arguing about Adam's love life, but he had one last demand before he committed to anything.
"Before I sign this, I want half of the payment upfront," Noah said, standing tall. "You pay me five hundred thousand now, and you can pay the rest at the end of the one-year agreement."
Adam stared at him for a long moment. His eyes were cold and full of judgment, clearly looking down on Noah for bringing up money so quickly, but Noah didn't care what he thought. If he was going to be forced into this mess, he was going to make sure his tuition and future were secure.
