Chapter 2
918 Words
Gabriela
As the days passed, things only got worse. I started to think there was something seriously wrong with my résumé, because that was the only explanation for my unemployment.
I called countless numbers, sent messages, asked for referrals, handed out my résumé in person, and nothing. My money was running out, and I even considered selling the only thing I had left. The house.
That was when something unexpected happened. A phone call filled with strange hope.
A taste of victory spread across my mouth, at least until I remembered I would have to travel to wherever this job was located.
I had to be honest with the woman who called me. I explained that I had no financial means to go anywhere, since I had spent all my money on frustrating interviews. Without hesitation, she asked for my bank account number and made a generous deposit for my bus ticket.
I admit the city is quite far. A more forested area, probably full of shifters. But at this point, I cannot afford to be picky. I need the money.
In the end, I found myself with a backpack over my shoulders containing two changes of clothes, my documents, a folder with my résumé, and a small snack for the trip.
The journey takes about three hours. The return will probably take just as long, maybe even more depending on the time.
I had to swallow my fear and hold my head high, no matter how difficult it felt.
I withdrew the money and boarded the bus, feeling my insides twist. I took a deep breath and closed my eyes, and as if by magic, my mind transported me back to that fatal day.
My heart started racing in my half sleep, and my entire body seemed to go numb under the weight of fear that grew stronger with every passing minute.
When I opened my eyes after a sudden jolt from the bus, I realized we were nearing my destination.
I wiped the sweat from my forehead and drank the water from the small bottle I had brought.
As soon as I stepped off the bus, I was faced with a massive bus terminal. According to the woman on the phone, a car would be waiting for me.
Excuse me, could you tell me where the waiting area is, I asked an attendant.
Without saying a word, she pointed toward a section across the terminal. I thanked her and walked over, taking a seat on one of the available benches. Moments later, my phone vibrated.
Your driver has arrived.
I looked around, searching for the car, and after a few minutes of feeling completely lost, I finally spotted it with a sign bearing my name.
Good morning, Miss Gabriela. My name is Cris, and I will escort you to the Black Wolf mansion.
Good morning, Cris.
I observed the man carefully. Cris is elderly, and honestly, I was surprised he still drives.
But once we were inside the car and he started the engine, he surprised me with attentive and confident driving.
Still, I began to feel nervous. With every kilometer we traveled, the forest grew denser, and the memories of my past grew louder inside my head.
Finally, the car stopped in front of an enormous mansion with towering gates and the symbol of a black wolf carved not only into the metal but also into the front doors. There was even a massive fountain in the courtyard shaped like a giant wolf.
My skin prickled instantly. The black wolf from my past connected itself to the wolf in that family crest.
Damn, I muttered under my breath as sweat trickled down my back.
Are you feeling well, miss, Cris asked as he opened the door for me.
Y Yes, just a little nervous.
Do not worry. No one from the family is present. Only the housekeeper who will interview you and little Vic.
Vic. That is the boy I will be caring for, I asked as I stepped out with my backpack.
That is correct. Are you wearing any perfume.
No. Nothing with strong scents.
I know shifters have an extremely sensitive sense of smell. Any perfume could irritate them. If I want this job, I need to start on the right foot.
Cris nodded and gestured for me to follow him.
I climbed the grand staircase of the mansion, and the doors opened for us. I followed the old man while observing the luxurious decor. Everything was elegant, filled with oil paintings and thick carpets that probably cost more than everything I own combined.
This is it, Cris said.
I thanked him and, before I could change my mind, pushed the door open and entered what looked like a large office.
Hello, Gabriela, a woman said. Her hair was pulled into a tight bun, and she wore a black uniform. She stood and walked toward me.
Hello, Mrs. Valeria. It is a pleasure to meet you.
We shook hands, and the moment our eyes met, I knew she was not entirely human.
Her eyes were brown, but flecks of yellow shimmered within them. Her face carried something wild, and even fully dressed from head to toe, I could tell she was strong. Powerful. She looked like she could easily overpower me.
Please, have a seat, she said, guiding me to a chair.
Even uncomfortable, I sat down.
Now came the interview.
And honestly, I am not sure I came prepared enough for this.
- Writer
