Destiny's Arrangement

Chapter Three

A few days after my surprising meeting with Henry and Devon Woods, life resumed its normal pace, albeit with a hint of excitement in the air. Since I mentioned the dinner invitation to Linda, she had been filled with enthusiasm, and I felt a blend of nervousness and curiosity about what lay ahead.

While I was in the midst of another job search, browsing online listings, my phone rang with an unfamiliar number. A strange feeling urged me to answer.

“Hello?”

“Is this Elena Bennett?” A professional female voice asked, clear and straightforward.

“Yes, it is.”

“Good afternoon, Miss Bennett. My name is Sarah, and I’m calling for Mr. Devon Woods. He would like to meet with you regarding a potential opportunity. Are you available tomorrow morning at 9 a.m. at Woods Enterprises?”

My heart raced. Devon Woods wanted to see me? I was torn between excitement and anxiety. “Yes, I can make it,” I said, striving to keep my voice calm.

“Great. I’ll send you an email with the details. Please be punctual.”

The call ended abruptly, and I was left in a state of disbelief, staring at my phone. Woods Enterprises—one of the top companies in the nation—wanted to meet with me.

When I shared the news with Linda, she nearly leaped at me. “This is incredible, Elena! A meeting with Devon Woods? Do you realize how significant this is?”

“I’m trying to stay grounded,” I replied, though excitement was bubbling within me. “It might just be a formality; maybe he simply wants to thank me.”

“Or perhaps he sees something greater in you,” Linda countered, her eyes shining. “You never know with people like that. Just be yourself and show them how remarkable you are!”

I nodded, but my nerves started getting the best of me. I had no clue what to expect, yet I knew this was a chance I couldn’t afford to squander.

**The Interview**

The next morning, I chose my outfit carefully, opting for a simple, elegant blouse and skirt that struck a balance between professionalism and approachability. I arrived at Woods Enterprises early, the imposing glass building towering over me as I took a deep breath and entered.

The lobby was sleek and contemporary, featuring marble floors, high ceilings, and minimalist decor that radiated affluence. The receptionist sent me to the top floor, where a well-dressed assistant greeted me and led me to a spacious office with a stunning city view.

“Mr. Woods will join you shortly,” she said before leaving me alone.

I stood near the window, attempting to steady my racing heart. The view was mesmerizing—skyscrapers stretching endlessly, the city alive beneath me. Yet, my thoughts were replaying the moments that had brought me here.

The door opened, and I turned to see Devon Woods stride in, as imposing as I remembered. He filled the space with an authoritative presence and wasted no time on formalities, heading straight to his desk and gesturing for me to sit.

“Miss Bennett,” he said, his tone all business, “I wanted to meet you personally to discuss an offer.”

I sat down, my palms slightly sweaty as I clasped them in my lap. “An offer?”

He nodded, his gaze unyielding. “My grandfather had high praise for you after your encounter. He was impressed with both your actions and your character. Consequently, he’s asked me to find a role for you in our company.”

I blinked in disbelief. “A role... at Woods Enterprises?”

“Yes,” Devon affirmed evenly. “We have an opening for a personal assistant in the executive office. It’s a challenging position, but it offers significant benefits and opportunities for growth.”

I could hardly fathom what I was hearing. A job offer from Woods Enterprises? And not just any role—a chance to work directly under Devon Woods. It felt surreal.

“I... I don’t know what to say,” I stammered, my thoughts racing. “I’m immensely grateful for the opportunity, Mr. Woods. But are you certain I’m the right choice? My experience in a corporate setting is quite limited.”

Devon’s expression remained steady. “You showcased quick thinking and composure in a high-pressure situation, qualities we highly value. Experience can be acquired, but character is much rarer.”

His words took me by surprise. His tone was factual, devoid of flattery—it was evident he believed in my potential.

“I’d be honored to accept,” I finally responded, a blend of excitement and nervousness coursing through me.

“Excellent,” Devon said, rising to extend his hand. “Welcome to Woods Enterprises, Miss Bennett. You’ll begin on Monday; my assistant will provide all the necessary information.”

I shook his hand, beginning to grasp the reality of the situation. I had a job—a genuine job that could transform my future. As I left the office, my mind raced with possibilities. This might be the breakthrough I had been waiting for, a chance to reshape my life.

**Celebration with Linda**

That evening, Linda and I toasted to my new job with a bottle of inexpensive wine and takeout from our favorite Chinese place. We settled on the couch, laughing and enjoying sweet and sour chicken and egg rolls.

“I told you something exciting would happen!” Linda exclaimed, clinking her glass against mine. “This is just the start, Elena. You’re going to achieve great things!”

“I hope so,” I replied, still trying to process everything. “It feels unreal. Me, working for Woods Enterprises? It’s hard to believe.”

Linda beamed. “Embrace it, girl. You’ve earned this. And who knows? This could be just the first step. You might rise through the ranks, become a big shot, and—boom! You’re living the dream life.”

I laughed, though the idea of advancing in the corporate world felt improbable. “I’ll be satisfied just to keep up with the demands. Devon Woods doesn’t seem like the type to go easy on his employees.”

“True, he’s certainly intense,” Linda conceded, her expression growing serious. “But if anyone can manage him, it’s you. You’ll handle it just fine.”

Her faith in me was comforting, yet a flicker of nervousness remained. Devon Woods was enigmatic—he could be cold and distant one moment, then offer me a life-altering opportunity the next. That uncertainty lingered in my mind.

“Thanks, Linda,” I said, smiling at her. “I don’t know what I’d do without you.”

“You’d do just fine,” she replied, giving me a playful nudge. “But it’s great to have someone to share the ups and downs with, isn’t it?”

“Definitely,” I agreed, raising my glass. “To new beginnings.”

“To new beginnings,” Linda echoed, and we toasted to the future—whatever it might hold.

**Anticipation and Doubt**

As the weekend wound down, my anxiety about starting my new job grew. With Monday approaching, doubts began to creep in. Was I really suited for this role? Could I manage the responsibilities, particularly with someone like Devon Woods?

I tried to dismiss the doubts, reminding myself of Linda's words. I was capable, determined, and deserving of this opportunity. Still, a small voice in the back of my mind kept reminding me of the stakes involved.

That night before my first day, sleep eluded me as my mind raced with anticipation of what lay ahead. I realized this job could be a chance to prove myself and build a proud future.

Yet, I also understood the challenges would be significant. Devon Woods was known for his demanding nature and relentless drive, expecting excellence from everyone around him. I was determined not to disappoint him.

As I finally fell asleep, I made a silent vow to give my all to this job. No matter how tough it became or how many obstacles I faced, I would meet the challenge head-on.

This was my opportunity—my chance to turn things around—and I refused to let it slip away.