Page 48 of Hostage of the Russian
Despite her shock at finding him here, Azriel felt herself slipping into interview mode. She’d worked too hard to let this opportunity slip away, even if it came with complications she hadn’t anticipated.
“I believe my educational background gives me a unique perspective on human behavior and organizational dynamics. I’m particularly interested in applying psychological principlesto business consulting, helping companies understand what motivates their employees and clients.”
“Fascinating.” Kostya leaned forward, elbows on his desk, and she couldn’t help but notice how the movement made his suit jacket pull across his broad shoulders. “And how do you handle high-pressure situations?”
“I work well under pressure. I’ve had to learn to think quickly and adapt to changing circumstances.”
“Experience with difficult clients?”
“Extensive.” She met his gaze steadily. “I’ve dealt with some very challenging personalities.”
“I imagine you have.” His voice dropped slightly, taking on a husky quality that made heat pool in her stomach. “Tell me about your greatest weakness.”
“I have a tendency to be too trusting. Sometimes I let people get closer than I should before I realize their true intentions.”
“And your greatest strength?”
“I’m very good at reading people. I can usually tell when someone is being honest with me.” She tilted her head slightly. “Most of the time.”
“Most of the time?”
“There are exceptions. Some people are very good at hiding who they really are.”
“Indeed.” He made a note on her file, though she suspected it had nothing to do with her actual qualifications. “What are your salary expectations?”
“Fair compensation for my skills and experience.”
“That’s rather vague.”
“I prefer to negotiate based on the specific responsibilities of the position.”
“Smart.” He stood and moved to the window, hands clasped behind his back. The view from behind was just as distracting as the one from the front, and Azriel had to force herself to focus on his words rather than the way his pants fit his form perfectly. “This position would involve a significant amount of travel. How do you feel about that?”
“I’m open to travel opportunities, as long as they’re professional in nature.”
“Of course. Though I should mention that some of our clients prefer to conduct business in more... relaxed settings. Private dinners, weekend retreats, that sort of thing.”
“I can handle myself in any professional setting.”
“I don’t doubt that.” He turned back to face her, and the intensity in his dark eyes made her breath catch. “You strike me as someone who can adapt to any situation.”
“I’ve had to learn flexibility.”
“Another valuable skill.” He returned to his desk but didn’t sit, instead perching on the edge in a way that made his suit jacket fall open. “Do you have any questions for me?”
“Several.” She crossed her legs, not missing the way his gaze flickered downward before returning to her face. “What exactly would my day-to-day responsibilities include?”
“Research, analysis, client relations. You’d be working closely with our senior consultants to develop strategies for improving organizational efficiency.”
“And who would I be reporting to?”
“The department head. Someone with extensive experience in the field.”
“Not you?”
“Not directly, no. I’m more of a... silent partner in this particular venture.”
Relief flooded through her, though she wasn’t entirely sure why. “I see.”
