The sweet aroma inside the coffeehouse took over my senses. The bitter yet inviting smell and low chatter filled the atmosphere. Nothing settled my nerves like hot chocolate with marshmallows and cream, which is what I was enjoying as I sat there, chatting with my dad over the phone.

“I hope Liberty Company lives up to your expectations, baby girl. You’ve been looking forward to an opportunity like this!”

Coming September, I would begin my second year of college, where I was studying artist and project development. The course load concentrated on discovering and managing artists and creating project ideas and brand developing. But for now, I wanted this job to help give me perspective about the business. I didn’t want to mess it up.

“But I only get to stay in Bridgeport for the summer—and only if I get the job. Remember?”

“Come on now. Who would ever turn you down?”

I traced my index finger around the rim of the cup. Liberty was Bridgeport’s most prestigious event company, and my only work experience was in my papa’s pastry shop. I knew I was out of my league even interviewing for the job. Even so… I felt this job would take me one step closer to what I’d been looking for.

“You get going or you’ll miss your interview.”

“Okay, Papa,” I said, and set the phone down as my hand shook.

~*~_ ~*~

Bridgeport had always been my ideal dream place to live and work. It was a large town with a vibrant, multifaceted cultural scene and a gentle river that rambled through it. It was also crazy about its events and entertainment business.

As I approached it, the tall glass building did not look friendly. At the very least, it seemed empty and cold, even though this was a warm summer morning. I was hesitant to enter. I patted my cheeks.

No turning back.

I smoothed my clothes with a single wipe of my palms. I was wearing a mini pleated dress with a black sleeveless lace top and cream-colored skirt. Perhaps it was a little plain, but pretty. I dressed it down by wearing black tights and vintage leather pointed-toe loafers.

Unfortunately, my shoes were squeaky, which drew unwanted attention to me as I made my way toward the long and somewhat wide front desk. Before I could give my name, the young girl behind the desk stood. I noticed she dressed nicely in a well-designed pants suit.

“Ms. Hyde, hello. I’ve been expecting you.”

“How did you know it was me?”

“I only have one ten-thirty on my schedule. Since no one is ever late for an interview here, it had to be you. This way please,” she said as she headed down the hall. I nodded and followed.

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She led me to a white-painted room with a single, long, mahogany table and eight black leather chairs. The walls were as bare as my forehead.

I felt so on edge as I waited for my interviewer once the receptionist left.

“Did you not hear me? Or did you get bored and space out?”

I jumped, startled. “I want to be here, believe me. I’m not bored at all.”

Who was this woman?

“I’m Rias, and if you’re done gawping like a lost child, I’ll have your name.”

“Kichi is my name. Kichi Hyde.”

“Okay, Miss Hyde,” she said as she pulled out a chair and sat across from me. “Tell me. What makes you a good employee?”

“Um… I am a dependable person,” I answered while trying not to shrink under her strong gaze.

“Hmmm…” She wrote something down on the pad in front of her. “There’s nothing better than an employee who consistently follows through. Moving on. Everyone I interview dreams of working at Liberty, but you need a certain je ne sais quoi if you’re going to make it here. Tell me, Ms. Hyde. Why do you want to work at Liberty?”

“It’s my absolute desire to learn all I can about the entertainment business, and Liberty is my starting point.”

“I see.”

My eyes dropped to my entwined fingers. I did not like being noticed and seen by people. Keeping to myself put me at ease, but sitting there, I realized I had to step outside my comfort zone, entering an industry I now felt I would likely crumble underneath.

“Rias!” Someone from outside the room suddenly called out to my interviewer.

Rias did not reply. Before long, voice called out again and then the door opened. A beautiful young woman stepped into the room. My eyes widened in disbelief.

It couldn’t be!

Ray Lars did a quick inventory of the room. Her emerald eyes caught mine.

Was that a look of surprise? Recognition?

I wondered if she remembered me, and I couldn’t believe my desperation at wanting her to remember me. A flush crept up my face.

“Oh, sorry,” she said to Rias. “I didn’t realize you were busy.”

“I told you this morning that the last of the candidates were coming for an interview today.”

“You did?”

“Do you listen at all when I speak to you?” Rias asked her.

“Not really.” Ray grinned tauntingly at her and Rias glared.

I did not expect to see Ray Lars again, least of all in my interview with her manager.

Ray’s mobile rang, but she seemed reluctant to answer. “Excuse me while I take this,” she said, appearing to give in “Rias, let’s talk outside in a bit,” she said, and she left.

But the heat didn’t follow her out of the room. Could Rias feel the heat radiating off me, just from being in the same room with Ray? Could she hear my heart and its loud thumping?

“Well, that concludes the interview. Thank you for your time,” Rias said, dismissively.

“Thank you for seeing me.” I bowed.