Chapter 2: The Meeting
262 Words
Three weeks later, Grace sat in the waiting area of yet another company, her resume clutched in sweaty palms. The receptionist had told her to wait, but Grace could see through the glass partition that the hiring manager was packing up his desk for the day. Another rejection was coming.
"Excuse me," a soft voice said beside her. "Are you also waiting for an interview?"
Grace turned to see a young woman about her age, wearing a simple but clean dress and carrying a worn Bible along with her folder of documents. Despite the weariness in her eyes, she had a peaceful expression that seemed out of place in the sterile corporate environment.
"Yes," Grace replied. "Though I think they're done for today."
"I'm Tshepiso," the woman said, extending her hand with a warm smile.
"Grace," she replied, shaking the offered hand. "Have you been waiting long?"
"About two hours, but that's okay. God's timing is perfect." Tshepiso said this without any trace of sarcasm or bitterness, which struck Grace as odd given the circumstances.
The receptionist's voice cut through their conversation: "Ladies, I'm sorry, but Mr. Johnson has had to leave early. We'll contact you if we need to reschedule."
Grace felt her shoulders slump. Another wasted day, another dead end. She gathered her things with barely concealed frustration.
"Would you like to get some tea?" Tshepiso asked gently. "There's a small café around the corner, and I could use some company."
Something in the woman's eyes—a depth that spoke of understanding—made Grace nod. "Sure, why not."
- Writer
