I’d love to change my return to better times, but on the return there’s only 3 seats available at the price I want, not 4, so it’s only pricing me at the higher price

Does United allow splitting tickets in this case so I can pay 3 at one price and the 4th at higher? Or if February, all on AC metal on UA codeshare, would you just wait out another price drop or a schedule change?

Would cost me about $1200 difference to do it for all 4 at higher price, but only $40 if all at lower.
or any other tricks to get them to price out at that level?

(not Basic Economy)