A Glimmer of Hope

Lana's eyes widened at the unexpected visitor . Her best friend, Rachel,stood on the other side of the door,a look of determination etched on her face.

"Lana,I need to talk to you", Rachel said, pushing her way into the apartment .

Lana stepped aside, letting Rachel breeze pass her. "What's going on?, you look like you've lost your last marble."

Rachel plopped down on the worn couch, sending up a puff a dust . "I've got a plan,Lana. A way to get you out of this mess."

Lana raised an eyebrow, intrigued despite herself. "What kind of plan?"

Rachel leaned forward,her eyes sparkling with excitement."I've been thinking.... you need a job that pays better.Something with benefits and a future."

Lana snorted"Easy for you to say.You've got a degree and a trust fund.I've got nothing but a GED."

Rachel waves her hand dismissively ."That's not the point . The point is I got a connection. A friend of a friend, who works for a big corporation downtown.They're looking for a personal assistant, and I think you'd be perfect for the job."

Lana's skepticism must have shown on her face, because Rachel hurried to reassure her."Hear me out,Lana.This could be your ticket out of poverty .You'd get a steady paycheck , benefits and a chance to learn new skills . Plus, the CEO is... interesting .

Lana's curiosity was piqued, despite her initial doubts. "What's the CEO like?" She asked Rachel,her mind already racing with possibilities .

Rachel's expression turned serious.He's intense . Heartless, some people might say.But he's also brilliant and ruthless in business. Oh, and did mention he's drop dead gorgeous .

Lana raised an eyebrow "Gorgeous?"

Rachel nodded,a sly grin spreading across her face. "Like 'can't-look-away' gorgeous.But don't let that fool you.He's cold,Lana. Like 'I'll-crush-you-if-you-get-in-my-way' cold"

Lana felt a shiver run down her spine. She wasn't sure if she was intrigued or intimidated. But one thing was certain: She needed this job