Painted Pearls

Chapter 1: Rejection

Emily sat in the waiting room, flipping through a worn copy of a magazine.

She had been waiting for what felt like an eternity for her interview. Finally, the door opened, and a stern-looking woman called out her name.

"Emily Wilson?" the woman asked, her voice firm.

Emily stood up, smoothing out her dress and trying to compose herself. "Yes, that's me,"she replied, trying to sound confident.

The woman barely looked at her before turning and walking back into the office. "Follow me," she said curtly.

Emily trailed behind Karen, her eyes taking in the sleek, modern decor of the office.

They walked past a bustling cubicle farm, the sound of keyboards clacking and phones ringing filling the air.

As they approached the conference room, Emily's nerves began to spike. This was it – the moment of truth.

Karen pushed open the door, gesturing for Emily to enter. The room was dimly lit, the only sound the soft hum of the air conditioning.

Seated at the far end of the table was a panel of three interviewers, their faces stern and unyielding. Emily recognized the CEO, Mr. Jenkins, from her research on the company.

"Welcome, Emily," Mr. Jenkins said, his voice firm. "We appreciate you taking the time to meet with us today."

Emily smiled, trying to hide her nerves. "Thank you for having me."

"So, Emily," he said, his voice dripping with disdain. "Tell me, why do you think you're qualified to work for a company like ours?"

Emily felt a surge of anger at the tone, but she pushed it down, trying to remain professional. "I believe my skills and experience make me a strong fit for the company," she said, trying to keep her voice steady.

Mr. Jenkins raised an eyebrow, his expression incredulous. "Really?" he said, his voice laced with sarcasm. "Because from where I'm sitting, you look like just another desperate job applicant."

That was harsh, Emily thought, as if she had been slapped. She tried to speak, but her voice caught in her throat.

Karen Brown stepped in, her voice firm but polite. "I think that's all for now, Emily, thank you for coming in today."we surely will get back to you.

As Emily stood up, her eyes locked onto Mr. Jenkins, who was watching her with a cold, calculating gaze. She felt a surge of anger and humiliation, but she pushed it down, trying to maintain her dignity.

"Thank you," she said, her voice barely above a whisper.