It was late at night.
Aiko sat alone in her room.
The file lay on the table.
Contract. Opportunity. Risk.
She slowly opened it again.
Every line felt heavier than before.
"Exclusive contract…" she whispered.
Her thoughts were conflicted.
"This could be my dream… but am I ready?"
The next morning…
Mika came over.
"Aiko, have you decided?"
Aiko shook her head.
"Not yet…"
Mika sat in front of her.
"Why are you thinking so much?"
Aiko replied calmly,
"Because this is my future."
Silence filled the room.
Mika said,
"Your future grows when you take risks."
Aiko responded,
"Or it can go wrong."
Mika paused.
"Are you scared?"
Aiko closed her eyes.
"…yes."
Mika softened.
"It's okay to be scared… but what about missing a chance?"
Aiko didn't reply.
Later…
Aiko picked up her sketchbook.
Each drawing reflected a part of her.
She whispered,
"I've always wanted to move forward…"
She looked at the file again.
This time, along with fear—
there was courage.
Evening… (Decision Time)
Aiko stood outside the gallery.
The file was in her hands.
Mika asked,
"Are you sure?"
Aiko took a deep breath.
"…yes."
They walked inside.
The man was already there.
"Miss Aiko, I assume you've decided."
Aiko stepped forward.
"I have."
"Are you certain?"
Aiko replied firmly,
"Yes."
She opened the contract…
picked up the pen…
And signed it. ✍️