GREEN STATUS

FIRST DAY FIRST ENEMY

Hayes Corp tower looked bigger up close.

Elma stood across the street at 8:55 AM, clutching her bag like it was the only thing keeping her together. The building gleamed, glass and steel, nothing like the broken-down district she came from.

You’re late, a voice said behind her.

Elma turned. It was Destiny, breathless, holding two cups of coffee.

I told you I’d walk you, Destiny said, shoving a cup into Elma’s hand. You look like you’re going to faint.

I’m not fainting, Elma said, but her hands shook anyway. What if Joseph sees me? What if he tells them I’m a liar before I even start?

Then you tell the truth faster than he can lie, Destiny said simply. Now go. 9 AM sharp.

Elma took a deep breath and walked through the revolving doors.

The lobby was cold, loud, full of people who looked like they belonged there. She approached the HR desk, heart pounding.

I’m here for the admin interview, she said. Nathan Hayes sent me.

The receptionist’s eyes widened slightly, then she forced a smile. Please take a seat. Someone will be with you.

Elma sat. Ten minutes passed. Twenty. People kept glancing at her clothes, her shoes, her bag. She felt it. The judgment. The silent question: what is she doing here?

Finally, a woman in a sharp suit walked out. Catherine Hayes.

Elma froze.

Catherine was tall, polished, with eyes that missed nothing. She stopped in front of Elma and looked her up and down.

You’re late, Catherine said.

I’m not, Elma said quietly. It’s 9:07.

Catherine’s lips curved into a smile that wasn’t a smile. Interesting. Nathan didn’t mention you were bold too.

Elma stood up. I’m here for the job.

Catherine crossed her arms. And I’m here to tell you that Joseph already called. He said you’re not to be hired under any circumstances.

Elma’s stomach dropped.

I see, she said. So this is how it starts.

Catherine leaned in slightly. Let me make this easy for you. Leave now. Before I make sure you never work in this city again.

Before Elma could answer, the elevator doors opened.

Nathan stepped out, still in his doctor’s coat. What’s going on here?

Catherine straightened instantly. Nothing, cousin. Just handling a hiring mistake.

Nathan’s eyes went to Elma, then back to Catherine. This is Elma Okonkwo. I recommended her.

Catherine laughed. You recommended Joseph’s niece? The one who tried to seduce him?

Elma flinched, but didn’t look away.

Nathan’s expression hardened. And I heard Joseph’s side. Now I want to hear hers.

Catherine stepped closer to him, lowering her voice. Don’t do this, Nathan. You don’t know what you’re getting into.

I know exactly what I’m doing, Nathan said. HR, process her paperwork. She starts today.

The lobby went silent.

Catherine stared at Nathan, then at Elma. Her smile returned, cold and sharp.

Fine, she said. Welcome to Hayes Corp, Elma. Let’s see how long you last.

Elma walked past her toward HR, hands shaking but chin high.

Destiny, watching from outside the glass doors, whispered to herself. Oh, it’s on now.