Masking Emotions - Oshi No Ko

Chapter 8: The Offer

"Wow, what an opportunity!"

Miu; Kokoro's mom excitedly cheered, before asking...

"But shouldn't this be a little *too* scary for little Kokoro? Not that I'm refusing or anything... Just asking!"

"We do appreciate your concerns, and we understand that this might be a little bit different than what you imagined for Kokoro's acting debut. But we think she would be perfect for this role, and we're confident she can handle it."

said one of the agents.

"Also, we'll make sure that she is never in any physical danger."

added another agent.

"Safety is our top priority, especially when it comes to young actors."

"Ahh, that's good. Well, how about it, Kokoro? Do you wanna do this? Are you 1000% suuure?"

Asked Yasuhiro; Kokoro's dad, turning to Kokoro, who is seated neatly.

"Yes, Daddy!"

Kokoro replied, trying her best to show as much interest in the situation as she could. Of course, she was still emotionless, but the acting training she had received was starting to show. She was beginning to fake emotions, just like a "real, genuine" actor.

"You'll be fantastic in this movie!"

her dad told her, smiling.

"Are you ready to be the star of the show?"

"Yes, yippee!"

Kokoro cheered, smiling ear-to-ear.

"That's great, little Kokoro!~ Now, Mr. Agents, what else is there? Any more details we need to discuss?"

Asked Kokoro's mother smiling softly.

"Well,"

one of the agents replied,

"we're gonna need to do a few more things before we start filming. One, a quick trip to the studio for some pictures and measurements."

The agents explained more information on the details of filming, along with the schedule and pay for the role, as well as the requirements for the role. It all seemed very doable, and Kokoro's parents, Yasuhiro and Miu, seemed very excited for the future of their daughter.

"Yayyyy! I get to go to the big flashy Studio!"

Kokoro cheered, in reality, she only saw it as a interesting opportunity...

Kokoro's mother signed the contract, with a broad smile on her face. Kokoro's dad signed it as well, grinning like he was so happy for his daughter.

It was official-- Kokoro would be the lead actor in a new movie.

After everyone had signed, the agents turned to Kokoro and spoke.

"Well, Kokoro, that's all settled. Are you ready to go to the movie studio?"

Kokoro nodded her head vigorously.

"Yes, I can't wait!"

"That's great! Now, when is she gonna go? Are we gonna also be there with her?"

Asked Kokoro's mother, kind of concerened..

"She'll be going in the next few days, and no, you won't be going with her,"

one of the agents said.

"We will be providing her with transportation from now on while shooting the movie. But don't worry, she'll be safe and well-supervised. We have strict policies in place for child actors for a reason."