With everything planned and without the worry of thinking about new plans, Hiroshi was ready for what would come next. Taking a deep breath, he let go of his precautions and simply focused on resting and preparing for the day ahead.
The next morning, sunlight streamed into Hiroshi's room, brightening the surroundings. Feeling the discomfort of the light shining on his face, Hiroshi slowly woke up.
Stretching and fighting the urge to go back to sleep, Hiroshi got up and began his morning routine. After getting ready, he went down to the kitchen, where he found his mother cheerfully preparing breakfast.
While eating, Hiroshi kept thinking about what he would do today. Noticing her son seemed to be daydreaming, Aiko expressed her concern. "Are you okay? Is something bothering you?"
Aiko, who knew her son better than anyone, quickly realized something was on his mind. Without being caught off guard, Hiroshi explained to his mother, "Today, I plan to take my first step toward my musical career."
Hearing what was worrying her son, Aiko gave a reassuring smile and expressed her feelings. "Don't worry, Hiroshi, everything will be fine. You have more than enough talent to succeed. Don't worry too much, okay?"
Comforted by his mother, Hiroshi felt motivated to take another step in his career.
After finishing his breakfast, Hiroshi thanked his mother and said goodbye to her. Wishing him a good day, she watched him leave. Motivated, Hiroshi walked through the streets, already bustling with people going about their lives. Seeing the sun high in the sky, Hiroshi continued on, feeling that this would be a good day.
As he headed toward Strawberry Productions, Hiroshi mentally reviewed his plan of action. Not wanting to seem too intrusive or awkward, he worried about how to interact with the people who worked there.
After walking a bit further, Hiroshi arrived at the agency. He took a moment to observe the agency's building, which appeared large and imposing. Taking one last look, Hiroshi stepped forward, passing through the doors and entering the agency.
Entering the agency, Hiroshi was greeted by a modern and sophisticated environment that perfectly matched the establishment's reputation. Well-placed plants stood out, giving the place a welcoming atmosphere where anyone could feel at home.
As he approached the reception, Hiroshi noticed a young receptionist with light brown, short hair focused on her computer. She hadn't noticed his presence yet, but when she looked up, she offered a warm smile. "Good morning, how can I help you?"
However, upon recognizing who was in front of her, the receptionist lost a bit of her professionalism and couldn't help but comment, "Wait... you're Hiroshi Takahashi, aren't you? I know you! I've seen some plays you've performed in. I'm a big fan of your work!"
Hiroshi was surprised to be recognized so easily. Although theater isn't as popular as cinema, it's safe to say that he had many fans who admired his talent.
Smiling politely, Hiroshi replied, "Yes, that's me. Thank you for watching my plays; I'm very happy you enjoyed them."
Still surprised and slightly excited to be face-to-face with someone she admired, the receptionist continued, "It's a pleasure to meet you in person! What brings you to Strawberry Productions? Are you thinking about new directions for your career?"
"Actually, yes," Hiroshi replied, maintaining a friendly tone. "I'm here to discuss future possibilities."
"That's amazing!" she exclaimed, visibly enthusiastic. "Let me see how I can help. I'll contact one of the agents right now to see if they can meet with you. In the meantime, you can sit over there if you'd like."
Hiroshi thanked her and made his way to the waiting area, feeling good about having his work recognized. The receptionist's warm welcome helped him stay relaxed.
While patiently waiting in the reception area, he observed the people around him, all of whom seemed very busy with many things to do. Observing how people behave has always helped Hiroshi; seeing how people are naturally helps him improve his acting skills and be even more natural when performing.
Not long after, the still-smiling receptionist returned to Hiroshi. "Mr. Takahashi, I've just contacted one of the agents."
She informed him enthusiastically. "But Director Miyako Saitou, who personally manages some of our talents, was informed of your presence and would like to speak with you directly."
Hiroshi was caught off guard. He didn't expect the agency's president herself to want to speak with him. Moreover, he knew well who this president was. Miyako Saitou is not just anyone; she once worked with the legendary Ai Hoshino and is now the adoptive mother of Ruby and Aqua.
Knowing how valuable it was to speak with the president herself, Hiroshi nodded with enthusiasm in his voice.
"Of course, I'd be happy to speak with her," Hiroshi responded politely, as the receptionist motioned for him to follow her.
She led him down a short hallway to a glass door with the name "Miyako Saitou" engraved on a metal plaque beside it. The receptionist gave a light knock on the door before opening it slightly and peeking inside.
"Miyako-san, Mr. Takahashi is here," she announced.
"Please let him in, thank you," a firm yet gentle female voice responded from the other side.
Hiroshi entered the room and found Miyako Saitou, a woman with a confident posture and sharp gaze, but a welcoming expression. She stood up from her chair and walked over to him, extending her hand with a cordial smile.
"It's a pleasure to finally meet you, Hiroshi Takahashi," Miyako said, shaking his hand.
"I've heard quite a bit about you, and I must say your talents in theater are impressive. I'm curious to know how I can assist you today."
Hiroshi felt slightly intimidated by her presence but also relieved to notice the warmth in her voice.
"The pleasure is mine, Miyako-san," he replied, still a bit nervous.
"I'm here to discuss some possibilities regarding my career as an artist, and I thought Strawberry Productions would be the right place to broaden my horizons." Hiroshi explained what he wanted, finishing his statement with an ambitious smile.
Miyako smiled, pleased with his ambitious attitude. She motioned for him to sit in the armchair in front of her desk. "I'm interested in hearing more about your plans. Let's talk and see how we can collaborate."