THE CEO'S ASSISTANT

Scarlet was jolted awake by her mother’s voice. “Wake up. Have you forgotten it’s the day of your interview? You’ll be late!” her mother called. “I’ll be up soon, Mother,” Scarlet replied sleepily. “You better hurry up.” How could she forget such an important day? She had been searching for a job for months, but all her efforts had been in vain. She had completed high school the previous year, but university was out of reach. Her mother simply couldn’t afford it. On top of that, her mother had been diagnosed with cancer, and the cost of treatment was overwhelming. Scarlet knew she had to step up and find a job to support them. Her heart raced with nervousness. She had never attended a job interview before. But this wasn’t just any opportunity—she needed this job. For her mother. For their future. Without wasting another second, she jumped out of bed, quickly made it, and rushed to the bathroom. Within minutes, she had finished her morning routine. In the kitchen, breakfast was already waiting. Her mother had prepared it for her. Scarlet ate quickly, barely tasting the food, her mind focused on what lay ahead. “I’m leaving, Mother. Wish me luck,” she said, grabbing her bag. “I wish you all the luck in the world,” her mother replied warmly. “I know you can do this. Trust yourself.” “I won’t disappoint you. I know how much we need this job. Once I get it, I’ll take you to the best hospital.” “May the heavens guide you,” her mother said, kissing her goodbye. “I’ll see you later,” Scarlet said, hugging her tightly before stepping out. She walked to the roadside and hailed a taxi. “To Millennium Agencies, please,” she said as she got in. “Alright,” the driver replied, and they drove off.