Elizabeth James is an exclusive fashion designer. James entered into a contract with Natalia wherein Natalia acts as a sales agent to sell Jamess

designer gowns and accessories to upscale boutiques in high fashion markets. Natalia earns a commission of 6% on her sales. Natalia enters into

negotiations with the renowned bridal boutique Kleinfeld's in Manhattan for their purchase of 100 designer wedding dresses from James. The

contract is valued at $1,800,000. Natalia had been working on the Kleinfeld's deal for 2 months when her agency contract was terminated by lames in

accordance with the termination provision in the agency contract. Three months after Natalia's termination, Elizabeth James signed a contract to sell

Kleinfeld's 100 designer wedding dresses under the similar terms that Natalia had previously negotiated. When Natalia learns of the Kleinteld

contract, she demands that James pay her the 6% commission on the sale.

How strong is Maria's claim? Explain.