Sophia Evans smoothed the wrinkles from her navy-blue blazer, exhaling slowly as she stepped into the towering glass skyscraper of Kingston Enterprises. The sleek, modern lobby buzzed with the quiet efficiency of a company that ran like a well-oiled machine. Every detail— from the marble floors to the crisp scent of fresh coffee in the air— screamed power.
She had worked hard for this moment. Months of preparation, sleepless nights perfecting her resume, and now, standing in front of the receptionist, she was one step away from her dream job.
"Miss Evans?" A polished-looking assistant called her name, her tone brisk but polite. "Mr. Kingston will see you now."
Sophia swallowed. Mr. Kingston? She had expected to be interviewed by the HR department, not the CEO himself. Her nerves prickled, but she squared her shoulders. She wasn't about to let this opportunity slip away.
As she was led into a sleek, spacious office, she spotted him—Alexander Kingston. He stood near the floor-to-ceiling window, hands in his pockets, gazing at the city skyline as if he owned it. And, in a way, he did.
The man was a walking embodiment of power. Tall, broad-shouldered, and impossibly handsome, his navy suit was tailored to perfection. His dark hair was neatly styled, and when he finally turned to face her, piercing blue eyes locked onto hers with an intensity that made her breath hitch.
"Miss Evans." His voice was deep, smooth, and unreadable. He gestured toward the chair across from his desk. "Sit."
Sophia sat, keeping her posture straight, but her palms were slightly clammy. This was more than just an interview. It felt like a test.
"I've read your resume," Alexander said, leaning back in his chair as he studied her. "Impressive credentials, excellent recommendations. But tell me, Miss Evans…" He paused, his sharp gaze never leaving hers. "Why should I hire you?"
Sophia met his gaze head-on, willing her voice to stay steady. "Because I'm the best at what I do."
A flicker of something—amusement? Interest?—passed through his eyes.
"Bold answer," he murmured. "But I don't hire based on confidence alone. Convince me."
The challenge in his tone sent a thrill through her. This was it. Her moment.
Taking a steadying breath, she leaned forward slightly. "Because I don't just work hard, Mr. Kingston. I work smart. I don't settle for good enough—I push until the job is done flawlessly. And I can guarantee that if you hire me, you won't regret it."
Silence stretched between them. Then, Alexander smiled, slow and knowing.
"Interesting," he said. "Let's see if you can prove that."
Sophia had no idea that this interview would change everything.