The box Eki held felt more warm than normal, and its smooth surface made her focus more. Beside her stood Dapo, his forehead wrinkled as he gazed at the object with both interest and a bit of fear on his face.
Calmness was everywhere in the hallway, only broken by their trembling breaths. The important choice made Eki feel unsure and confused about what action to take next. What secrets did the box hide within? Was it a gift or perhaps a trap, offering hope of escape or bringing a path to gloom and sadness?
"Eki," Dapo finally said in a gentle and hesitant voice, "we cannot just keep staring at it. We have to decide on what to do."
Eki nodded slowly, her mind racing. A sudden pang of guilt struck her. She was paying much attention to the box and trying to make sense of the contract, and
