Chapter 5

Elarie almost couldn’t stop her fingers from trembling as the interview went on. Every word out of Danreb Scott’s mouth felt like a test. It was as if he was judging her to the depths of her soul. Elarie knew she couldn’t afford to make a single mistake. She clasped her hands tightly in her lap, trying to keep them still, but the nerves coursing through her made it nearly impossible.

Danreb’s icy demeanor was even more intimidating than she had anticipated. His sharp gaze seemed to cut through her, as if he could see beyond her professional exterior and into the depths of her worries and doubts. Throughout the interview, he hadn’t shown a hint of warmth or understanding, not even a flicker of encouragement. Elarie wondered if this was how he treated all his employees or if it was something about her that he found lacking.

She was answering his latest question, trying to focus. But fear gnawed at her. 

What if she wasn’t good enough? 

What if her efforts had been in vain? 

She couldn’t afford to fail. Daniel was depending on her.

“And what…” Danreb’s voice broke her train of thought. “...makes you think you’re qualified for this position?”

Elarie blinked, taking a quick breath to steady herself. The question wasn’t unexpected, but she felt the pressure building in her chest.

“Well, Mr. Scott,” she began, choosing her words carefully, “I know that this position requires someone who can manage multiple tasks efficiently, handle pressure, and stay organized in a fast-paced environment. While I may not have the traditional corporate experience, I have spent the last five years honing my ability to manage complex situations under challenging circumstances. I’ve had to juggle multiple part-time jobs, raise my son as a single mother, and still find time to grow professionally. I’ve learned how to adapt, how to keep going even when things are tough. Those skills, I believe, make me well-suited for this role.”

She spoke with confidence, but Danreb’s expression didn’t change. He simply watched her, as if weighing every syllable she uttered.

“And why do you want this job?”

Elarie felt her chest tighten. It wasn’t just about the job. It was about everything that came with it. A chance at stability, a future for Daniel, an opportunity to finally give her son the life he deserved. She swallowed hard and met Danreb’s gaze, refusing to let the fear show in her eyes.

“I want this job because I need it,” she responded. “Not just for myself, but for my son. I want to be able to provide him with a stable future. I’ve spent years working to make ends meet, but I know I can do more. I’m determined to build something better for both of us. And I’m willing to do whatever it takes to succeed here.”

The room fell silent again. Danreb’s eyes was still locked on hers, but his expression remained unreadable. Elarie’s heart pounded in her chest. Each second felt like an eternity. 

Did she say enough? 

Was her answer good enough for him?

Danreb leaned back in his chair, folding his hands on the table in front of him. His gaze was unwavering.

“Determination is admirable. But Scott Corporation is not a place for charity cases. We need people who can perform at the highest level, not those who are simply desperate for an opportunity.”

Elarie’s stomach sank. She had expected a tough interview, but Danreb’s words were harsher than anything she had anticipated. But she couldn’t back down now. She wouldn’t.

“I understand that, sir. I’m not asking for charity. I’m offering you hard work, dedication, and loyalty. I know I can excel here, given the chance. I don’t expect any handouts, and I don’t want any. I’m willing to earn my place in this company.”

Danreb’s gaze narrowed slightly, but he said nothing, allowing the tension to build between them. Elarie felt her palms grow sweaty, but she kept her head high, refusing to let him see her falter. She had worked too hard to come this far. And no matter how intimidating he was, she wouldn’t let fear dictate her future.

The silence stretched on as Danreb studied her. His piercing gaze felt like it was dissecting her every word. But after what felt like an eternity, he looked back down at the papers in front of him.

“That’s all for now,” he said abruptly. “You can go.”

Elarie blinked. The sudden end to the interview caught her off guard. She stood slowly. Her legs felt weak beneath her as she gathered her things. Her heart sank further as she realized how the interview had gone. 

Danreb hadn’t shown a single sign of interest or approval. In fact, he seemed completely indifferent. It was as if her presence had barely made a dent in his day.

With a heavy heart, she nodded politely. “Thank you for your time, Mr. Scott.”

She turned and walked toward the door. Her shoulders were slumped in defeat. She could feel the disappointment settling in. Her hope was slipping away with every step. The job was gone. She could feel it. She hadn’t impressed him, hadn’t said the right things. The thought of facing Daniel after this crushed her. She would have to tell him that she didn’t get the job, that their situation wasn’t going to change.

Her hand was on the door, ready to leave, when she heard Danreb’s voice cut through the silence.

“Mrs. Wyatt.”

Elarie stopped. Her hand froze on the doorknob. She turned slightly, just enough to see Danreb calling for the HR assistant who had been silently sitting in the corner during the interview.

“Yes, Mr. Scott?” Mrs. Wyatt asked.

Danreb glanced down at the papers on his desk and said with cold finality, “Cancel the remaining interviews. Ms. Newton already has the job.”