She hesitated before stepping aside to let him in. Mr. Sato bowed again and entered without looking around, as if he already knew the layout of every room the government had paid for.
He took the seat across from her at the small table by the window, placing a slim folder on the surface between them. "I know this is not easy," he said, his voice low and careful. "We are asking a great deal from people who have already lost everything."
She didn't reply. Her hands were wrapped around a white mug of tea she hadn't drunk from.
"We have been working on a long-term solution for foreign nationals like yourself," he continued. "The government is offering residency for those willing to join a national repopulation program."
That word 'repopulation' made her chest tighten.
She raised an eyebrow. "You mean… children?"
"Yes," he said. "But not only children. A full life. Housing. Support. A fresh start."
She waited. There was always a catch.
"And… marriage?" she asked quietly.
"Yes," Mr. Sato replied. "Each participant is paired with a vetted citizen, someone who has also volunteered for the program. The goal is to stabilize rural areas and build strong communities."
She swallowed hard. "And if I say no?"
"You are free to decline," he said immediately. "We are not forcing anyone. But options are limited. Many countries have closed their borders. This program guarantees full citizenship within five years. And protection."
Protection. The word echoed.
"And the partner?" she asked. "How do you decide who I marry?"
Mr. Sato slid the folder toward her. "You may review these profiles. You will have the chance to meet the candidate before making a decision."
She glanced at it but didn't open it. "Do they know… about me? That I might not be able to have children?"
"We ask all participants to share medical history, to the extent they are comfortable. But ultimately, both parties must agree. There is no obligation beyond honesty."
She looked out the window. The skyline had faded to grey.
"I had a miscarriage," she said softly. "Before I came here. And… some surgery after. Nothing major, they said. But I was told to inform a doctor if I got pregnant again."
Mr. Sato's expression didn't change. "Thank you for telling me. That can be included in your file, with your consent. There are doctors in the city who can do an evaluation, if you wish. You would not be alone in this process."
She looked down at the folder. Her fingers hovered over the cover, then pulled back.
"I'll think about it," she said.
He nodded and stood, offering another small bow. "We will not pressure you. But time is important. The program is moving forward quickly."
She stood too, but said nothing.
As he left, she locked the door behind him and sat back down, staring at the folder.
It felt too heavy for something so thin.