The constant pressure began to take its toll. Ethan found himself snapping at friends, skipping training sessions, and questioning whether any of this was worth it. Frank noticed the change and confronted him one evening.
"You're burning out," Frank said. "If you keep this up, you're going to fall apart."
"I don't have a choice," Ethan shot back. "Victor's got me booked solid."
You always have a choice," Frank said firmly. "But you need to start thinking for yourself before someone else does it for you."
Ethan did not reply.