Page 5 of A Dark Infinity

Ethan leans forward, his gray eyes searching mine. “What makes you think you’re the right fit for this position?”

I take a deep breath, steeling myself for this crucial moment. “I’m organized, detail-oriented, and able to thrive in fast-paced environments,” I explain, hoping to highlight my strengths. “I believe my skills and experience align well with the requirements of the role, and I’m excited about the opportunity to make a meaningful contribution.”

Ethan nods, seeming to consider my words carefully. “Very well, Ms. Parker. Thank you for your responses. Now, do you have any questions for me?”

Despite my surprise he’s asking this in the middle of the interview and not at the end, I seize the opportunity to ask about the company culture and opportunities for growth, eager to gain insight into what it would be like to work at Infinity Solutions.

As the interview progresses, Ethan delves deeper into my background, probing for insights into my strengths, weaknesses, and problem-solving abilities. I respond to each question with honesty and professionalism, determined to leave a lasting impression on him.

“Can you provide an example of a challenging situation you’ve faced in your previous role and how you handled it?” Ethan asks, his gaze focused intently on me.

I recount a particular instance where I had to coordinate a major event with a tight deadline and limited resources. “The owner wanted more exposure, but there was no wiggle room in the marketing budget. So I took the initiative to reach out to influencers across different platforms.”

“That sounds very… standard,” Ethan observes dryly.

Refusing to let him deter me, I carry on. “Yes, using influencers isn’t anything new,” I laugh nervously. “But when none of them were interested, along with some other’s from the office, we started a social media challenge. We made sure to create a hashtag for it, and we recorded ourselves in the office so the company’s brand was heavily featured.”

Ethan reaches for his phone and asks for the hashtag. I try not to smirk as I give it to him. I know exactly what he’s going to find, and I’m proud of it. “Very impressive,” he states. “Over ten million search results and close to three million videos linking straight back to yours.”

I nod. “Thank you.” If that doesn’t show my ability to think outside the box and garner results, nothing will.

“And why are you looking to change jobs?” Ethan inquires, his voice gentle but probing.

I hesitate for a moment, weighing my words carefully. “I’m seeking new challenges and opportunities for growth,” I reply diplomatically, choosing not to mention the financial strain my family is under. “I believe Infinity Solutions offers the kind of dynamic environment where I can continue to learn and develop professionally.”

To my relief, Ethan seems satisfied with my answer, offering me a small smile of encouragement. “Tell me about any familial obligations you may have,” he demands, no longer smiling.

“Umm…”

“Do you have a boyfriend? A husband? Kids? Siblings? Anyone in your family who depends on you?” He fires the questions in rapid succession like he already knows and doesn’t want to leave me a loophole.

“My dad,” I half-whisper, wringing my hands in front of me. “My dad is in a care home and he depends on me financially.”

“And the rest?” Ethan asks, brusquely.

I shake my head and clarify, “No boyfriend, husband, kids, or siblings. I don’t even have a pet, Mr. Drake. The only one who relies on me is my dad.”

He nods. “If you’re successful, the company will pay for your dad’s medical bills. You can submit them to HR as an approved expense.”

“How much?” I ask before I can stop myself.

Ethan arches an eyebrow. “What do you mean?”

I blush. “I’m sorry to ask, but what percentage of the bills are we talking about? Because—”

He holds up his hand. “The full amount,” he clarifies. “We expect a lot from our employees, Miss Parker. So we like to alleviate any financial strain where possible. With a sick relative, you can also claim travel expenses and anything related directly to your dad’s sickness.”

“Oh.” That’s all I manage to say as I try to keep my cool and not drop down to kiss his feet in gratitude.

“Yes, well.” He shifts in his seat. “Thank you for coming, Ms. Parker. That’s all the questions I have for now. We’ll be in touch regarding the next steps.”

The sudden shift in his demeanor catches me off-guard. I look at Claire to see if she has anything to say, but she isn’t even looking in my direction. Okay then, guess the interview is over just like that.

I thank Ethan for his time, rising from my seat with a newfound sense of confidence. As I make my way out of his office, I can’t help but allow a small smile to grace my lips. The possibility of a new beginning looms on the horizon, and for the first time in a long while, I allow myself to dare to hope.

Exiting Infinity Solutions, I’m met with the bustling energy of the city streets, the sounds of honking horns and chattering pedestrians providing a stark contrast to the quiet professionalism of the corporate environment I’ve just left behind. With each step, I replay the interview in my mind, dissecting every word and gesture, searching for signs of whether I’ve made a favorable impression on Ethan Drake.

Despite my attempts to remain composed during the interview, I can’t deny the surge of adrenaline that courses through my veins as I recall the intensity of Ethan’s gaze, the weight of his scrutiny. His presence exuded an undeniable aura of power and authority—a reminder of the stakes involved in securing a position at Infinity Solutions.

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