The First Day

"Wow!!"

My jaw dropped watching the magnificence and breathtaking view of the luxurious building. The hustling, bustling, ringing in my ears, and the people engrossed in their work depicted the success this place holds. They didn't have time to ponder on useless and baseless issues because they had bigger things to worry about. God knows how long I have waited for a day to be a part of a place where I wouldn't have time to cry about my sordid life.

My gaze slowly drifted to a blonde girl who was guiding a group of rookies. Her countenance was stern and professional. Dressed in a crisp peach blouse and pencil skirt, she was busy dictating them while looking at her tablet from time to time. I walked towards her.

"Uhmm, Ma'am, I am Honey Samuels," I introduced myself with a smile, instantly catching the attention of everyone as they shifted their heads towards me. But my smile slowly wavered, noticing their questionable eyes.

"Samuels, you said?" The same blonde repeated as she looked at me through her glasses with raised brows. I turned to her and slightly nodded.

"Uh, yeah. I applied for the job of receptionist."

"Then what are you doing here? These are new trainees for the tech department. You need to report to Mr. Miller. Go."

'Ouch'

Does she have to be this harsh? She just spat in my face and turned to direct the trainees, who also ignored me and got busy with her. My throat clogged up, but I clenched my fists and took a step back.

They all must be graduates and have passed an examination for the position. I might have been in their place if I were smart like them, but alas.

Shaking my head, I took my leave and started searching for Mr. Miller. I would have asked that idiot if she hadn't been this mean to me.

*****

"Where did you work earlier?"

Mr. Austin, Miller, the manager, asked me. His voice was firm, and his expressions were solemn. I thought he might be an aged man, but he was in his late twenties, and man, he was very handsome.

I nodded, "Daffodil and Tim Corp." I replied politely. He nodded and placed my file down on the table.

"It's good to see that you aren't a fresher and must have an idea regarding your job."

His words brought a smile to my face, "Yes, Sir-"

"But whatever knacks you have wouldn't work here, Madam," he rudely cut me off before I could speak.

"Pardon?" I was shocked.

What does he mean by that?

Austin smirked before leaning back in his chair, "I am sure you must be aware of Scott Industries and the power it holds. Every single person in this building is special. Even the sweepers and cleaners here aren't less than graduates." His derisive tone left me shaken. I fisted my skirt while watching the man who steepled his fingers before speaking, "As you see we have a reputation to maintain. Foreign delegates visit us every day that's why we require staff who can converse in multiple languages. And you", he stopped before exhaling a deep sigh, "you haven't even graduated so it's pointless even asking you that you can speak different languages. Don't know how you got selected here."

He taunted and sized me from head to toe.

My jaw clenched. I was offended.

"Sir, you're forgetting that your top-notch company accepted my application. I passed the interview, and only then did I come here for the training. You must have checked my qualifications before recruiting me, " I said bitterly. Austin narrowed his eyes. His smirk dropped, and a hard expression plastered his face.

His glares didn't deter me, and I continued, "And regarding my qualification, I had informed the panel why I couldn't complete my graduation. I didn't keep anyone in the dark, so it's wrong of you to say that I-"

"Why?"

"What?" He again interrupted me. Amusement returned to his eyes.

"Why couldn't you graduate?" He inquired. I still watched his curious eyes but then it clicked to me that he might be testing me. I have heard about it that rookies are monitored at every step by seniors. I turned alert because if I keep losing my calm, it will only harm me.

Exhaling a brief sigh, I straightened my spine and spoke, "Actually, when I was in my first year, my dad got diagnosed with an incurable disease. My studies got hampered. I couldn't manage them well, and when I had my semesters, he couldn't make it and left me." I spoke in a steady voice, trying to curb my feelings.

Austin was shocked, and I am sure I saw his gaze soften before it quickly shifted back to cold.

"Our financial condition wasn't sound, so I had to drop my studies and opt for a job. That's the only reason why I have not graduated, Sir." I completed and dropped my gaze to my lap. I am not pleased to share my grief with the world, but no matter how hard I try to forget it and move on, someone just keeps bringing it up and slapping the harsh reality on my face.

"How old are you?" Austin questioned.

"Twenty-one," I whispered. A brief silence ensued after my response. What a good start. Just the first day, and my spirits are dampened.

After a long pause, Austin heaved a sigh and sat straight, "All right. You may go now."

As expected.

I knew I wouldn't make it here. They were all just testing me, and I failed. Obviously, he wouldn't let me join here. He was disgusted with my poor qualifications. I was a fool to come here only to receive humiliation and rejection in the end.

I nodded and slowly stood up. I so badly wanted to shout at him and curse him for making me travel so long. I spent so much money and even lied to my friend, only to get kicked out on the very first day. But I said nothing. There's no point. The best thing I could do now is leave this toxic place with respect. At least it's better than being dragged out by security.

I started picking up my file when Austin stopped me.

"What are you doing?"

I looked at him, confused, "Taking my file back."

"And why is that? You just told me you have previously worked, didn't they keep records of their employees?" He sounded annoyed. My eyes grew wide in shock.

"Employees? So, I am selected?"

I thought they were kicking me out.

Austin rolled his eyes and snatched the file from my hand. "You are such a pain. Just go downstairs and wait for Rose. She will brief you on your tasks." He cut me short and tossed the document aside before picking up the pen. I watched him with a frown as he opened his file and engaged himself in work, indicating to me to vacate the room instantly.

Ignoring his bitterness, I nodded excitedly and took my leave.

End of Honey's P.O.V.

Austin lifted his gaze only to see Honey, who sprinted outside with bouncy steps. The joy that radiated through her after hearing his response didn't go unnoticed by him. Unbeknownst to him, a small smile made its way to his lips.

"Silly"

He murmured as a tinge of spark shone brightly in his eyes.