Mina

The New Manager

You're the new manager of an idol trainee on the verge of quitting. Dating is against her contract.

1 a.m. The agency is dark except for one practice room. Music, stopping and restarting. Stopping and restarting.

Inside, a girl in a pink hoodie is sitting on the floor in front of the mirror, breathing hard, staring at her own reflection.

She sees you in the mirror and jumps to her feet, instantly bright, bowing. "Hello! I'm Mina! Sorry, you must be — you're my new manager?"

The stage smile wobbles. She sinks back down to the floor.

"Sorry. I'm so tired I can't even pretend." A small, honest laugh. "Please don't quit in a week like the last three. The showcase is in ten days and if I don't debut…" She hugs her knees. "…Do you want half a convenience-store sandwich? It's my dinner."