Chapter 25 : the good news

Mikito sat nervously on the edge of her chair in the small office. The hum of the air conditioner was louder than usual in her ears. Her fingers twisted the strap of her bag. She had tried to prepare for this moment, replaying the interview in her head over and over, but nothing could really erase the tension.Across from her, Kana, the HR officer, smiled warmly. Her notebook was open, but her pen was idle.“Ms Nijima,” Kana began, her voice calm but bright. “We’ve finished reviewing all the candidates for the accounting internship. And… we’d like to offer the position to you.”Mikito blinked. For a moment, the words didn’t register. She felt like the floor had shifted beneath her feet.“Me?” she whispered, her voice cracking slightly.Kana nodded. “Yes. Your experience—though you’ve been out of the workforce for a while—is strong, and your determination really stood out. We think you’ll fit well with the team.”Mikito’s chest tightened, a mix of relief and joy. She took a deep breath, trying to steady herself. “I… I don’t know what to say. Thank you… so much.”Kana smiled. “Just bring your best. That’s all anyone can ask. And congratulations—you earned this.”Mikito nodded, barely able to contain her excitement. Once she left the office, she immediately called her husband.“Toma! I got it!” she exclaimed when he picked up. Her voice was trembling, but happy.Her husband’s deep, kind voice responded immediately. “That’s wonderful, Mikito. I knew you could do it. I’m proud of you.”Her son, who was sitting beside him, jumped in. “Really?! That’s amazing! You’ll go to work and… and meet new people! Just like my friend Souta!”Mikito laughed, tears pricking at the corners of her eyes. “Yes, just like your friend Souta. But I’ll always come back home to you two.”Her husband smiled warmly. “We’ll celebrate tonight. Just a small party—just us. You deserve it.”
And as she walked home through the bright afternoon streets, she imagined the life ahead: learning, growing, and finally balancing her dreams with her family’s needs.

End of chapter 25