Eric patiently remained in the reception area of the corporation, accompanied by several other gentlemen. Upon receiving a job offer, he was not anticipating having to contend with other male applicants vying for the same position. If Eric had been aware, he would have taken the initiative to compose a speech and enhance my attire in order to adequately prepare for the interview that he was compelled to participate in.
The opulent corporate lobby was a remarkable sight. Upon entering through the polished glass doors, visitors were greeted with a magnificent reception hall, embellished with marble floors, elaborate chandeliers, and luxurious velvet couches. The atmosphere was permeated with the delightful fragrance of newly blossomed flowers emanating from the carefully positioned, large floral arrangements in the room. The space was meticulously crafted to emanate lavishness and refinement. The walls were embellished with valuable paintings by renowned artists, while the ceiling showcased complex gold leaf patterns and a large crystal chandelier suspended in the center. The illumination was gentle and comforting, generating a snug and inviting ambiance.
Eric occupied the space between two big guys who appeared to match the roles they were trying to portray. Their rested muscles seemed more capable than his, and Eric began to worry that he might not be able to afford the next few months' rent. A sudden cacophony reverberated from the opposite end of the lobby, emanating from a locked door. A man dressed like the man sitting beside me dashed out the door and continued his run out of the building. "She's insane!" He shouted behind him before vanishing on the opposite side of the rotating gate. Eric's competitors exchanged stares betraying their thoughts.
“Next.” The secretary shouted behind her desk.
Successive individuals fled. A guard required nerves of steel to effectively patrol premises alone. Those who possessed a fear of ghosts were unable to uphold a position like that. Despite being initially surprised by the peculiar actions of those who came before Eric, he regained optimism that the task was more attainable than it had been two hours earlier.
“Next.” The secretary in her fifties shouted over her round glasses.
No one moved, and Eric understood it was his turn. Standing up, he sighed. “Here we go,” he murmured.
Curious by the CEO's decision to locate their office on the main floor of a remarkable building, Eric knocked on the door and pressed the elegant doorbell. He stepped into an immaculate office brimming with marvels. The area was exquisitely crafted, featuring expansive windows that provided a stunning view of a garden. The walls were painted in a pristine white shade and embellished with abstract art pieces, which introduced a vibrant element to the room. The floor was built using polished marble, exuding an opulent and sophisticated ambiance. The desk, crafted from rich mahogany wood, commanded attention as the focal point of the space, exuding an air of elegance and meticulous organization. The CEO's laptop and phone were arranged meticulously on a leather mat, while a bouquet of pristine flowers adorned a crystal vase, infusing the area with a sense of vitality.
The bookshelves positioned behind the expansive desk were adorned with a collection of literature related to business tactics, management, and personal development. Opposite to the desk, there was a cozy seating arrangement featuring a luxurious velvet couch and matching seats. In the center, a little coffee table was set up, topped with a tray of refreshments and a pile of business magazines.
“Hello?” Eric asked, finding himself the sole individual in the area.
“One minute.” A female voice shouted further back. The office could not have been more perfect. It had its own hidden bathroom.
Unable to decide whether Eric was supposed to sit or stand, he pretended to walk around the room to admire its features. There was no worse first impression than looking like a fool.
“Coming.” The woman said, as the sound of high heels resonated on the marble. “Eric?” The woman stopped her advance, baffled. “What are you doing here?”
Eric's heart skipped a beat when he saw the eyes that almost made him drown the night before. It was Savannah’s office.
“I...” Eric started, searching for words that would not make him look like a stalker. “I was kidnap my your, er...assistant?” Eric claimed, attempting to prove his innocence. “You can ask him. He’ll tell you.”
“Chill.” Savannah replied with a gesture. “I think I know what happened, and they probably already gave you the job?”
“Who? Aren’t you the CEO?” Eric asked, puzzled.
“I think you are about to forcefully go on an adventure you didn’t ask for.” Savannah grimaced. “Shall we proceed with the interview then?”
“I thought you said ‘they’ probably hired me.” Eric replied, a bit nervous in the presence of the gorgeous woman he was attracted to. The things he wanted to do with her...
“If you are going to protect me, I should have a say in this. Don’t you think?” Savannah clarified, coming closer. Eric detected the scent of her perfume. The aroma exhibited a fascinating combination of orange and spicy cherry notes.
Eric informed Savannah on his previous occupation as a bank security guard, highlighting his notable success in apprehending a significant number of criminals. His qualifications encompassed proficiency in martial arts and extensive experience of achieving victory via many hours of gameplay on his PlayStation. Savannah laughed at the remark. Then, she leaned onto the back of her chair and scowled.
“I feel like you’re hiding something.” Savannah said, staring in Eric's eyes. He blushed as her intense gaze caused a surge of blood in his cheeks. Eric observed a flicker of fire within her gaze and instinctively blinked his eyes twice. He felt obligated to tell her about his dark history, which he was not proud of. His father was a bandit, and he grew up as one. She expressed gratitude for his honesty and responded with a smile. “Well, I suppose you did learn how to survive.” Eric nodded, holding her gaze. “Good, because this is a matter of life and death. For us both.”
“Does it mean that I am hired.” Eric asked, standing next to the desk.
“Let’s say you’ll be on trial. I’ll be in touch.” Savannah said, rising up. “The secretary will hand you the contract. I believe you remember where the door is. Good day, Eric.”