A Show on the Way

"Money," Amanda responded tersely.

"What?!" Both Sara and Sienna exclaimed in disbelief.

"But..." Sara interjected, "What could he possibly need money for?"

Amanda took a deep breath and clarified, "He claims he requires it to address a certain issue."

"Curious," Sara remarked wryly, rubbing her chin, "I wonder what that issue could be."

"How much is he asking for?" Sienna inquired, her tone cautious, "You're not considering giving it to him, are you?"

Amanda fell silent for a moment, then shook her head. "No. But that's not what I conveyed to him."

Ten minutes earlier, in the lobby.

Edward whispered, "I'm entering the robot contest. My uncle's arranged it for me, but time's tight. I might need some money for ready-made accessories. Could you help me out, please?"

"Doesn't your uncle provide any support?" Amanda inquired.

"No," Edward shook his head. "He's against it."