The Interview

Ash's POVInterviews are a waste of time. They're a necessary evil, a task I've always delegated to others until the last one left me with a secretary who couldn't spell "priority." Now I'm stuck sifting through mediocrity, trying to find someone who can at least pretend to be competent.As I lead Zane Matthews into my office, I can't help but assess him. He's taller than I expected, though he slouches slightly as if trying to make himself smaller. His clothes don't quite fit, and there's a smudge on his tie, but there's something in his eyes—nervousness, yes, but also determination. It's a fleeting impression, one I don't usually entertain, but something about him piques my interest.I take my seat behind the desk, gesturing for him to sit across from me. He fumbles slightly as he takes his seat, his hands gripping the armrests like he's bracing for impact. I don't bother with small talk; it's a waste of time. Instead, I flip open his résumé and scan the details, though I already know what's there—nothing particularly impressive."You've had quite a few jobs in the last few years, Mr. Matthews," I begin, my tone neutral. I glance up at him, watching his reaction.He swallows, his Adam's apple bobbing visibly. "Yes, sir. I've been trying to find the right fit.""The right fit," I echo, leaning back in my chair. "And what makes you think this job might be that 'right fit'?"He hesitates, and I see the wheels turning in his mind, trying to formulate an answer that won't sound as desperate as he probably feels. "I believe I can learn a lot here. I'm hard-working, and I'm willing to go the extra mile to meet your expectations."It's a standard response, one I've heard countless times, but there's a sincerity in his voice that's hard to ignore. I set the résumé aside, folding my hands on the desk. "This position requires someone who can keep up with a fast-paced environment, someone who doesn't buckle under pressure. What makes you think you're that person?"His eyes flicker with uncertainty, but he doesn't look away. "I might not have all the experience you're looking for, but I'm not afraid of hard work. I learn quickly, and I know I can meet your expectations if given the chance."I study him for a long moment. His words are earnest, almost too earnest. Part of me wants to dismiss him outright, but there's another part that's curious, wondering if there's more to him than meets the eye."You've been unemployed for the past few months," I note, watching as his face tightens slightly. "Why?"He shifts in his seat, clearly uncomfortable. "I've been looking for the right opportunity. Something that challenges me.""Challenges you," I repeat, my tone skeptical. "And you think working for me will be that challenge?""Yes," he replies, his voice steadier now. "I've read about you, Mr. Gonzalo. I know you don't tolerate mistakes, and you have high standards. I want to prove that I can meet those standards."There's a flicker of something in his eyes—a spark of defiance, perhaps. He's nervous, but he's not backing down. I almost admire that, though I'd never admit it. "You understand that this job isn't just about keeping my schedule or answering phone calls. You'll need to anticipate my needs, solve problems before they arise, and handle tasks without constant supervision. Can you handle that?""I can," he says, his voice firm. "I won't let you down."I lean back in my chair, considering him. He's rough around the edges, unpolished, but there's something about him that intrigues me. Perhaps it's his determination, or maybe it's the fact that he doesn't seem to be intimidated by my reputation. Either way, I'm curious to see how he'll perform under pressure."Fine," I say after a moment. "You're hired. On a trial basis."His eyes widen slightly, and for a brief second, I see a mix of relief and disbelief cross his face. He opens his mouth to respond, but I hold up a hand to stop him. "Don't thank me yet, Mr. Matthews. You haven't earned it. You'll start tomorrow. Be here at 7:00 AM sharp. No excuses.""Yes, sir. I'll be here," he says, his voice steady, though I can see the tension in his posture.I nod, dismissing him with a wave. "That will be all."He stands, a bit awkwardly, and I watch as he leaves the office, the door clicking shut behind him. For a moment, I sit there, wondering if I've just made a mistake or if I've found someone who might actually rise to the challenge.Time will tell. But for now, I have more important things to focus on. I push thoughts of Zane Matthews to the back of my mind and return to the stack of documents on my desk. There's always work to be done, and I don't have time to waste.But as I dive back into my routine, I can't shake the feeling that something about this new hire might just change everything.