Episode005
1216 Words
NINA VIRTANEN'S POINT OF VIEW
I said "Okay, thank you" while following behind the maid towards the mansion. As we entered the grand living room, Matias walked next to me while his eyes kept shifting around.
"Wow. "Amazing," he muttered, clearly impressed.
I acknowledged that the mansion was truly breathtaking. I thought of my grandmother’s estate when I saw the interior design and layout, but the outside appearance was completely different. Luxury and sophistication radiated from every element of the interior.
The maid led us deeper inside. I attempted to absorb the surroundings in a quick sweep, but Matias was determined to distract me. He kept tapping my arm while murmuring my name. "Nina."
I turned to him, lowering my voice. "What?"
"This place is more extravagant than what you’d find at your grandmother’s or Hanna’s," he said while his eyes kept roaming. I don't mean to draw comparisons, but this guy definitely has a lot of money. Securing this job will represent a major turning point in your life.
"I know," I sighed. "I really hope I get it."
The entire night before the interview, I spent time praying for its success. I needed a consistent source of income to support my family and pay for Eelis's costly education. The job I lost created complete uncertainty for everything and I simply couldn't handle another failure.
The maid came to a halt near the back porch next to the room and opened the door for us. "Please wait here. Sir Lassi will be down shortly. What would you like to drink?"
"Just water, please," I answered.
Matias, however, had other ideas. He nudged me again and spoke up. "Two red wines, please."
The maid raised an eyebrow. Do you still want water along with your wine order?
"No need. "Just the wine," he said smoothly.
She gave a nod before departing and shut the door after her.
The moment we found ourselves alone, my gaze started to drift around the room. Sir Lassi’s study impressed me because it was spacious yet cozy with an elegant refinement. The enormous bookshelf behind his desk stood out for me with its neatly arranged collection of books.
Heaven.
Reading would consume my whole day if I stayed in this room. Had this space not belonged to my potential boss I would’ve already hurried over to examine the book titles.
A big glass window beyond the desk provided a view of an elegant swimming pool next to a beautifully landscaped garden. The perfect integration of interior and exterior design elements created an exceptionally welcoming atmosphere in the space. Every inch of it radiated perfection.
Will you stay frozen in place staring or what? Matias made a teasing remark that pulled me away from my thoughts.
With a small smile, I looked towards him. "I can’t help it." My book collection makes me love that shelf so much it feels like it's calling to me. This whole room is a dream."
His lips curled into a mischievous grin. "I have an idea."
"Oh no," I said immediately. "What now?"
"What if you married this guy?" he suggested. Then this room—and him—would be yours. You'd gain ownership of not only the books but also additional benefits. Imagine making love between the shelves. Sounds sexy, doesn’t it?"
Before I could respond, the door opened.
The tall man entered and shut the door after him. With his blue eyes and light brown hair, he possessed a striking appearance and a confident presence which attracted attention. He wore a dark blue shirt that fit perfectly into his black trousers with sleeves rolled up to show off his muscular forearms. A sleek, expensive-looking watch adorned his wrist.
He apologized for holding me up and his deep, smooth voice followed him as he approached his chair.
"He dropped into his seat before folding his hands on the desk as he faced me, "Nina Virtanen. Please, have a seat. Hanna shared some information about you with me.
I tried to steady my breathing before giving him a nod and moving toward his chair. I experienced a light sweat on my palms while I deliberately slowed my breathing to maintain even breaths.
Meeting his gaze triggered an odd sensation deep within me. A feeling—familiar and unsettling. His face and his eyes produced an unfamiliar yet specific sensation.
No.
It couldn’t be.
My mind played tricks on me or perhaps my solitude stretched on too long. He was a wealthy, powerful man. What possible link could exist between me, who was just a normal girl years ago, and him? It was ridiculous.
"Excuse me, sir. Matias announced his intention to wait outside while standing up and moving toward the door. He flashed me a quick wink before he walked away.
Lassi followed his gaze towards him and then shifted it back to me. "Is he your boyfriend? If he is, he can stay. No need to wait outside."
"No, no," I responded quickly while shaking my head. "Matias is just my best friend. My friend Matias just gave me a ride to this place.
Lassi nodded. "Alright. Let’s get to it. "Did Hanna explain the job to you?"
I nodded again. "Yes. According to Hanna’s explanation, you need a private tutor for your daughter, who is six years old. I teach my six-year-old child who is the same age as your daughter. I am absolutely qualified to fulfill the responsibilities of this position. Here’s my cover letter. I hope it meets your expectations."
I slid the folder across the desk with steady hands even as nervous energy surged through my body.
Lassi grabbed the folder and reviewed the pages inside. I waited without breathing as I anticipated his response.
We remained silent for an extended period before he finally broke the silence. The combination of your educational qualifications and professional experience indicates you would excel in a management position instead of teaching as a tutor.
My heart sank.
"However…" he continued, closing the folder. You brought up having a child of the same age as mine, which leads me to believe you have the skills required to supervise my daughter. Alright. You’re hired. When can you start?"
My breath hitched. "Next week, sir."
"Good. He said you would start next week and placed the folder on his desk. "I’ll inform my daughter about you. Here’s the salary you’ll receive each month. Any questions?"
I rapidly examined the figure displayed on the paper he gave me. The figure exceeded my expectations completely. More than enough.
I raised my head but could hardly keep my joy inside. "No questions, sir. Everything is clear."
"Great." Lassi stood, buttoning his shirt cuffs. Another meeting awaits me, so I need to conclude this now. I hope that’s alright?"
I stood as well, nodding. "Of course. Thank you for this opportunity. I’ll take my leave now."
He responded with a small nod as he headed toward the door. When he reached out for the door handle, he stopped suddenly.
"Oh, one more thing." He moved his head a little and his eyes met mine. You need to understand something important about my daughter.
I froze. "What is it?"
His face briefly showed uncertainty before he began to talk.
"She doesn’t speak."
- Writer
