Ryo's laughter echoed through the small cabin, a deep, hearty sound that filled the space. Aiko raised an eyebrow at him, her hands resting on her hips as she watched him with a mixture of amusement and slight annoyance.
"You really think I'm joking, don't you?" she said, crossing her arms over her chest.
Ryo wiped a tear from the corner of his eye, trying to stifle his laughter. "Come on, Aiko. You're really going to become an idol? It sounds like something out of a drama."
Aiko's expression didn't waver. She stood there, her gaze steady and serious. "I'm not joking, Ryo. I mean it."
Ryo's laughter slowly died down as he noticed the determination in her eyes. He sat up straighter, realizing she wasn't just playing around. "Wait… you're serious?"
"Dead serious," Aiko replied, her tone firm. "Why not? I've always loved music and performing. I've just never had the chance to pursue it seriously. But now… maybe it's time I do something for myself, something that makes me happy."
Ryo looked at her, still processing the idea. "But… becoming an idol isn't easy, Aiko. It takes a lot of work, and the industry can be pretty harsh."
Aiko nodded, her resolve unwavering. "I know that. But I'm not afraid of hard work. And I'm not doing this for fame or attention—I'm doing it because it's something I've always wanted to do. Besides," she added with a smirk, "if I can handle you, I can handle anything."
Ryo chuckled at her teasing, but he couldn't shake the feeling of concern that had settled in his chest. He knew Aiko was strong and capable, but the world of idols was a completely different beast. "Are you really sure about this?" he asked, his voice more serious now.
Aiko stepped closer to him, placing her hands on his shoulders. "I'm sure, Ryo. I know it sounds crazy, but I want to at least try. I don't want to look back years from now and regret not taking a chance."
Ryo looked up at her, seeing the fire in her eyes that he'd always admired. She was serious about this there was no doubt about it. And if there was one thing he'd learned over the years, it was that when Aiko set her mind to something, she didn't back down.
"Okay," Ryo said finally, his voice soft but supportive. "If this is what you really want, then I'm with you all the way. But you'll have to let me manage your fan club," he added with a wink.
Aiko grinned, relieved to have his support. "Deal. But don't think you're getting off easy. I'm going to need a lot of help with this."
"Whatever you need," Ryo replied, pulling her into a hug. "Just promise me one thing."
"What's that?"
"Don't forget about your biggest fan when you're up on that stage, okay?"
Aiko laughed, the sound light and filled with hope. "I could never forget you, Ryo. You're the reason I'm brave enough to do this."
As they held each other, Aiko's mind raced with the possibilities of what lay ahead. The idea of becoming an idol was daunting, but with Ryo by her side, she felt like she could conquer anything.
This new journey would be different from anything they'd faced before, but Aiko was ready for it. She had found a new dream, one that reignited her passion and gave her a sense of purpose. And no matter how challenging the road ahead might be, she knew she wouldn't be walking it alone.