Chapter 2 — The Unexpected Hire
288 Words
Two hours later, Adrian sat at the head of the conference table during the hiring committee meeting.
The HR director flipped through candidate profiles.
“The final applicant is Lina Malik,” she said. “She’s applying for the junior marketing analyst position.”
Adrian glanced casually at the file.
Then he paused.
It was the same woman from the lobby.
“Her academic record is impressive,” the HR director continued. “But she lacks corporate experience.”
Another manager spoke. “We usually prefer candidates with stronger industry exposure.”
Adrian leaned back in his chair.
“Bring her in.”
Moments later, Lina entered the room.
She froze slightly when she saw Adrian sitting at the head of the table.
“Good morning,” she said politely.
The interview began.
Questions about marketing strategies, brand growth, and customer engagement followed.
Lina answered each one thoughtfully.
She wasn’t polished like the other candidates, but she had something far more valuable—authentic insight.
Adrian watched her carefully.
There was intelligence behind her words. Confidence behind her nervous smile.
Finally, the HR director asked the final question.
“Why do you want to work here?”
Lina took a breath.
“Because companies like this shape the future,” she said honestly. “And I want to be part of building something meaningful.”
Silence filled the room.
Adrian closed the file.
“You’re hired.”
The HR director looked surprised.
But Adrian had already made his decision.
Lina smiled in disbelief.
“Thank you, Mr. Khanna.”
Adrian nodded slightly.
“Welcome to Khanna Technologies.”
As she left the room, Adrian felt something unusual.
For the first time in years, he was curious about someone.
- Writer
