Liya couldn't shake off the feeling of excitement and nervousness that had settled in her stomach. She had to enter the art competition, she had to show her mother that she was more than just a doctor in the making. But the fear of Ama's disapproval held her back.
As she walked home, Liya's mind was a whirlwind of thoughts and doubts. What if she failed? What if her mother was right, and art was just a hobby? But what if... what if she succeeded?
She pushed open the door to their small apartment, the familiar scent of cooking and the sound of Ama's soft humming greeting her. Liya's heart sank as she saw Ama standing in the kitchen, her eyes fixed on the competition flyer in her hand.
Ama's gaze lifted, her expression a mix of disappointment and concern. "Liya, what's this?"
Liya's heart skipped a beat as she took a deep breath and walked towards Ama. "It's an art competition, Mom. I want to enter."
Ama's eyes widened, her voice gentle but firm. "Liya, we've talked about this. You need to focus on your studies, not waste your time on art."
Liya felt a surge of frustration and determination. "But, Mom, art is what makes me happy. It's what I love."
Ama's expression softened, her eyes filling with tears. "I just want what's best for you, Liya. I want you to have a good life, a secure future."
Liya took a step closer, her voice shaking. "I know, Mom. But this is my life, my future. I need to follow my dreams, not yours."
The room fell silent, the tension between them palpable. Ama's eyes searched Liya's face, her expression torn. Finally, she spoke, her voice barely above a whisper. "Okay, Liya. You can enter the competition. But promise me you'll keep up with your studies, and you'll be careful."
Liya's heart soared as she nodded, tears of joy and relief streaming down her face. "I promise, Mom. Thank you."
Ama pulled her into a tight hug, her voice cracking. "I'm sorry, Liya. I just want you to be happy."
As they hugged, Liya felt a weight lift off her shoulders. She knew it wouldn't be easy, but she was ready to take the first step towards her dreams.
The next few days passed in a blur as Liya worked on her piece for the competition. Akira helped her refine her skills, and she spent hours in the studio, lost in the world of art.
Finally, the day of the competition arrived. Liya's heart was racing as she and Ama walked into the gallery, her piece displayed alongside dozens of other talented artists.
As they walked through the crowds, Liya's eyes scanned the room, taking in the vibrant colors and creative expressions. She felt a sense of pride and belonging, knowing she was a part of this community.
Ama's hand squeezed hers, her voice filled with emotion. "I'm proud of you, Liya. You're talented, and you deserve to be here."
Liya smiled, feeling a sense of gratitude and love for her mother. "Thank you, Mom. I couldn't have done it without you."
As the judges made their way to her piece, Liya's heart was pounding in her chest. She had poured her heart and soul into her art, and she was ready to face whatever came next.
The judges stopped in front of her piece, their faces expressionless. Liya held her breath, her eyes locked on the judges, waiting for the verdict.
And then, it happened. One of the judges smiled, nodding in approval. "This piece is remarkable. The use of color, the technique... it's truly exceptional."
Liya's heart soared as the judges announced her as one of the top three finalists. She hugged Ama, tears of joy streaming down her face.
As they walked out of the gallery, Liya knew that she had made the right decision. She had followed her heart, and it had led her to a place she never thought possible.