The elevator doors slid open, and Aurelia Rose paused.
The marble floor gleamed under her flats, worn but dependable. Everything here spoke of wealth—sharp suits, quiet mumurs, the faint scent of expensive perfume.
She griped her folder tightly. One interview. One chance. Stay composed
The receptionist barely looked up. "Name?"
"Aurelia Rose. I'm here for the interview ".
The receptionist's eyes flicked to the elevator, then back to her. "Go in. He's waiting ".
He?
Aurelia adjusted her dress and walked towards the glass door at the end of the hall.
The office inside was massive. Floor-to-ceiling windows showed the city stretching out below, a maze of lights and towers. Behind the desk stood a man—tall, broad, with rolled-up sleeves revealing strong forearms and a watch that probably cost more than her apartment.
He ended his phone call just as she entered. His eyes met hers—dark, sharp, calculating.
A shiver ran down her spine.
"You're late," he said flatly, his voice smooth but firm.
"I—I'm sorry," she said, steadying herself.
He took a slow step forward. Every instinct in her screamed to back away. "Didn't they teach you punctuality at the agency?"
"I think there's been a mistake," she said, keeping her voice calm. "I'm here for a job interview."
A brief smile touched his lips. "Is that what you call it?"
Her stomach tightened. "Yes. And I assure you, I'm exactly where I'm supposed to be."
He reached into his pocket and tossed a thick envelope onto the desk. It landed with a thud.
"Your payment," he said. "You'll get the rest after."
Aurelia blinked. "I don't understand… this isn't what I agreed to."
His eyes darkened slightly. "Watch your tone."
"I'm not refusing," she said evenly, "but I need to understand what's going on."
He leaned forward, voice low, measured, dangerous.
"You're saying you weren't sent?"
"Sent by who?" she asked, keeping her composure. "I applied for an administrative position. I passed the tests. This…" she gestured at the envelope "…is… confusing."
His gaze sharpened. "You could've made this easier."
"Easier for you, maybe. Not for me," she said simply.
He stepped closer, and for a moment, the air between them felt charged.
"You're Aurelia Rose," he said, low and controlled.
"Yes. And I'm here for a legitimate reason," she replied, keeping her head high.
She walked out, heart racing but steady, leaving a stunned receptionist behind as the elevator doors closed.
Aurelia exhaled. I didn't falter. I didn't back down. I handled it.