A quiet tension filled the private section of the gallery.
Aiko was still processing the offer.
"Collaboration…" she repeated softly.
The man observed her calmly.
"Yes," he said,
"But this is not an ordinary collaboration."
Mika stepped in immediately.
"What do you mean?"
The man took out a sleek file from his coat and placed it on the table.
"This is a project proposal."
Aiko hesitated, then opened it.
As she flipped through the pages, her expression slowly changed—
"This is…"
"An international exhibition," he completed.
Silence fell instantly.
Aiko looked at Mika in disbelief.
"International…?"
Mika was just as shocked.
"That's… huge."
The man nodded slightly.
"We are planning a global art showcase. Only selected artists will be included."
Aiko's heart raced.
"But… why me?"
"You have something rare," he replied simply.
Aiko fell silent.
Her hands trembled slightly as she held the file.
Mika leaned closer and whispered,
"Aiko… this is a big opportunity."
Aiko nodded slowly, but doubt lingered in her eyes.
"Is there… any condition?" she finally asked.
The man gave a faint smile.
"Of course."
He pointed to the last page.
"An exclusive contract."
Aiko's expression shifted as she read it.
"So if I sign this…"
"You will work under our company for the duration of the project."
The atmosphere grew heavier.
Mika reacted immediately.
"Wait—exclusive? That means she can't work with anyone else?"
"Exactly," he replied calmly.
Aiko stayed quiet.
On one side—a dream opportunity.
On the other—limitations.
"Take your time," the man said.
"I don't force decisions."
He glanced at his watch.
"But opportunities like this… don't wait forever."
Aiko's heart pounded faster.
This wasn't just a decision—
It could change her entire journey.
Meanwhile… (Hidden Hint 👀)
The man stepped out of the gallery and walked toward his car.
His phone vibrated.
A name flashed on the screen:
Sevan Global Group
He answered.
"Is she the one?" a voice asked.
The man smiled faintly.
"Yes."
A pause.
"She's exactly what you were looking for."
The call ended.
A deeper plan flickered in his eyes.
"Let's see how far you go, Aiko Tanaka…"
To be continued… ✨