Story 10. Written by Jim Waitlord

Alex was sitting on a battered bench in a small town, among the rolling hills and the whispering winds. The golden light of dusk curled around them like a comforting blanket. Life was swarming nearby - the children were laughing, the leaves rustled - but Alex was looking at the horizon, where the mist of the evening seemed to bring their last regrets.

Years ago they had refused a dream job in Paris that could have taken their careers to unimaginable heights. They chose stability instead of ambition, comfort instead of chaos. Now, with the shadows lengthening and the air crunching, a single question tore at their souls.

The thought repeated itself endlessly. Alex imagined an alternative life: a studio overlooking the Seine, under the glittering Eiffel Tower in the evenings. But the more they dwelt on it, the more empty they felt. Suddenly, a figure emerged from the twilight, as if drawn by Alex's desire. Their long coats glistened, their eyes seemed to catch galaxies.

"Have your decisions been interrupted?" they asked in a smooth, layered voice.

Alex was surprised but curious: "I can't stop recalling the hypothesis that might have been."

The figure revealed a strange structure of twisted metal and glittering crystals. "Would you like to see what is beyond your choice?" they asked. Despite their hesitation, curiosity won, and Alex touched the device. The world instantly became a kaleidoscope of light.

Alex found himself in a sumptuous Paris apartment, the Eiffel Tower gleaming in the distance. Scattered sketches and decorations bearing their names decorated the square. They were celebrated in Paris art circles and their name was synonymous with creativity and success. But cracks appeared in this charming life-forgotten birthdays, lost friendships, and a creeping sense of isolation.

One night they received an unmarked letter, sealed with red wax: *"Success is passing. Find where the stars touch the Seine. Moved by curiosity, Alex followed the Seine to a quiet bridge where the mysterious figure waited.

"No matter what life you choose, questions remain unanswered," they said. "Are you ready to leave this dream behind?"

Alex reluctantly agreed, and the world moved again.

This time Alex was in a suburban house, surrounded by the warmth of the family and the routine. Life was simple and reassuring, full of communal meals and constant work. But as time went on, a monotony crept in. As he sorted out the old things, Alex found a diary from another me, who had once dreamed bravely, but had calmed down for the sake of safety. The last entry said, "What could it have been?"

A strange hum attracted Alex to a hidden attic door, where a glowing sign invited them to enter. He was touched, and the world was transformed again.

Alex was now in the realm of endless possibilities. Countless lives swirled around them, a free but lonely wanderer inventing revolutionary technology. The mysterious figure reappeared. "You have seen success, security and chaos. Neither is complete, is it?"

Alex nodded, realizing the truth. "What am I supposed to do with this?"

"Live," said the figure. "Not by chasing perfection, but by embracing the beauty and confusion of everything."

Alex awoke quietly, motionless on the bench in the park. The structure and shape were gone, but the sense of purity remained. Alex rose, breathing deeply, and walked into the night, ready to face what lay ahead.

What would have happened if ?