Goodbye, Mr. Regret

She wandered through the exhibition, admiring Ines's creations-some were flat illustrations, others 3D models, a few so lifelike they could have drawn breath, and all sorts of imaginative merchandise lining the shelves.

Around her, students mingled in elaborate cosplay, their costumes transforming the crowded hall into a moving, vibrant tableau. The place was packed, buzzing with excitement.

Eventually, Jessica managed to squeeze her way through the throng and escape to the restroom. As she stepped back out, she caught sight of Timothy standing beside Ines.

"Mr. Lawson, I appreciate your investment in this national tour, but when it comes to taking on students, I only have two criteria: talent and spirit. I've reviewed Miss Howard's work, and, unfortunately, she doesn't meet my standards. I'm sorry."

So Ines was here at Timothy's invitation. And clearly, it was for Sheila's sake.

"Talent and spirit-those are rather vague, Ines. Could you be more specific?" Timothy pressed, still fighting for Sheila's chance.

Ines replied, "There's a piece in this exhibit that hasn't been revealed to the public yet. I'll be introducing it shortly. Take a look, and you'll understand what I mean by talent and spirit."

curiosity spiked. If Ines spoke so highly of it, the piece

to

ten minutes later, Ines reappeared, accompanied by

which meant limitless possibilities. As one of its leading figures, Ines had committed herself to nurturing and advancing the field, always pushing for both innovation and excellence. She

behind each featured artist's work. When it came to her own, she was just as candid, pointing out both strengths and flaws

longer just an animation mentor-she embodied the true spirit of a

thoughts drifted to her

was her grandmother who had taught

who promised a miracle-if they could pay a staggering sum. For a traditional artisan, ten thousand dollars was unimaginable, but her grandmother worked herself to exhaustion, taking odd jobs wherever she could, day and

visit, money spent and hope in hand,

grandmother's hard-earned savings-gone. There was no chance for another treatment. The blow was too much;