A Single-Color Exhibition Like a Lamp

Seeing my senior looking uncharacteristically down, I felt an urge to call out to them.

However, I didn't know what to say, and I couldn't shake the feeling that it might be meddlesome, so I couldn't bring myself to speak.

Perhaps noticing my hesitant behavior, they brightened the expression that had been downcast just moments before and asked, "What's wrong?"—ending up worrying about me instead.

I panicked and said,

"N-no... It's actually you, Senior, who looks a bit down."

I finally said it.

"I see," they muttered, and then

"I've worried you, haven't I? I still have a long way to go. Thank you."

They replied with a smile, devoid of any arrogance.

The moment of fluster was brief; with a "Right!" my senior stood up from their chair immediately and said,

"Well, I've switched gears. Come on, let's finish the rest of the work."

Their voice rang out—the usual bright, cheerful, and strong tone, yet filled with a gentleness that considered the listener.

I naturally felt a sense of respect for my senior, who could switch away from that downcast mood so quickly and maintain such an unwavering attitude.

With the sense of security they provided, guiding me like a lamp, and the faint, dazzlingly beautiful presence of color drifting in the air, I followed my senior's back as they shone in the center, and I, too, took a strong step forward.

I had the pleasure of participating in Asami Ishino's project!