THE INTERVIEW

CALI

Drrrhhhhh! My alarm blared, shattering the silence of my small room. I shot upright, heart racing. Today was no ordinary day it was the day of my interview at B&S Incorporate, the company that could finally change everything for Edward and me. I had dreamt of this moment for weeks, yet now that it was here, a nervous flutter danced in my stomach. I couldn’t afford to be late. Not today.

I leapt out of bed and darted into the bathroom. The cold water on my face jolted me fully awake, washing away the last traces of sleep. I brushed my teeth swiftly, tied my hair into a neat ponytail, and secured it with a red ribbon the same ribbon I wore during my first presentation at college. It felt like a charm, a tiny talisman for luck. I threw on a simple white gown and slid my feet into red slippers, a splash of color against the plain fabric.

Once dressed, I opened my file and carefully arranged my CV, certificates, and other documents, placing them in my red bag. Each paper felt heavy with hope and expectation. One misstep today could cost me the opportunity I had worked so hard for.

The kitchen was next. I cooked cheese and macaroni, a quick breakfast for both Edward and me. I poured a portion into a flask for him—he had a doctor’s appointment later, and he hated missing meals. I ate quickly, swallowing each bite as if it contained my future. When I was done, I gently knocked on Edward’s bedroom door.

“Edward,” I called softly.

“Huuhh…” he mumbled, burying his face in his pillow.

I tapped him lightly again, then harder when he didn’t respond. His head popped up, eyes squinting against the morning light.

“We are on holidays, sis, for crying out loud!” he groaned, rubbing his eyes. Then he suddenly realized he’d shouted and covered his mouth. I fought back a laugh, but the morning urgency left no room for play.

“Don’t you know you have an appointment with the doctor?” I asked, exasperation creeping into my voice.

He bowed his head, muttering, “Okay…” then quickly smirked and ran back into his room, locking the door behind him. Typical Edward always teasing, always trying to catch me off guard. I shook my head with a small smile and grabbed my bag. Time was ticking.

I dashed out and hailed a cab. Thankfully, traffic was light, and the driver dropped me right in front of the towering B&S Incorporate building. My chest tightened as I stared up at it glass panels gleamed in the morning sun, reflecting a world of opportunity that seemed just within reach.

Inside, the receptionist greeted me with a polite smile and directed me toward the interview room. As I entered, my eyes scanned the crowd over fifteen women, all dressed in eye-catching outfits, waiting nervously. Many wore revealing dresses with heavy makeup, a sharp contrast to my simple, professional appearance. I slipped into the only available seat, clutching my red bag like a lifeline.

Time crawled as I watched one girl rush out, her gown tight and short, makeup smeared from tears. She had not gotten the job. My stomach churned. Seeing failure so close reminded me of the stakes. I had to focus, had to stand out—not with drama, but with competence.

Finally, a voice called my name. “Cali Rillion?”

Heart hammering, I rose and walked into the office. My gaze met Smith Bryan, and for a brief second, I froze. He was striking—tall, confident, with an aura that demanded respect. His eyes, sharp yet unreadable, seemed to weigh every fiber of my being. My cheeks flushed, and I forced myself to look away. Drooling would have to wait; the interview came first.

“Please, sit,” he said, his voice smooth but commanding.

I sat, trying to calm my racing heart, and handed him my CV. My hands trembled slightly, betraying the nervousness I tried so hard to hide. I had faced many challenges in my life, but sitting across from Bryan Smith, with the weight of this opportunity pressing down on me, fear settled in my chest like a stone.

“Thank you, Cali,” he said, scanning my documents with a quick, professional glance. “Tell me about yourself.”

I took a deep breath, forcing myself to meet his gaze. “I’m twenty-two, and I’ve spent the past few years supporting my younger brother after our parents passed. 

Alongside that, I’ve worked hard to gain experience in administration and management. I’m organized, detail-oriented, and passionate about making a positive impact in the workplace.” My voice sounded steadier than I felt inside, but each word was a step forward, a small victory over the fear threatening to overwhelm me.

He nodded thoughtfully, tapping a pen against his desk. “I see. And why B&S Incorporate?”

I swallowed. “Because I want to grow with a company that values dedication and integrity. I want to contribute meaningfully and learn from the best. From my research, B&S stands out not just for success, but for leadership that inspires employees.”

There was a pause. Then he leaned back slightly, studying me. I felt as if my entire life every struggle, every sacrifice, every sleepless night was distilled into this single moment. I had to succeed, not just for me, but for Edward and the future we both deserved.

Bryan’s gaze softened slightly, but the intensity remained. “Very well, Cali. Let’s see if your actions match your words.”

I nodded, trying to keep the nerves from shaking my voice. This was it the beginning of everything I had been working for. And somehow, deep down, I knew I was ready.