The Unexpected Test

Vicky was on the move, focused and firm. She hailed a cab and dialed a number as she got in.

"Tonia, how are you feeling today?" she asked warmly.

"I'm good, Vicky," Tonia replied, her voice faint but content.

"That's great to hear. I'm heading to the Resort right now. I've already sent your milk—just take your time and rest up, okay?"

"Thanks, Vicky. I love you."

"I love you too."

Vicky leaned back in the cab, eyes on the passing streets, mind on the goal.

Meanwhile, Emily had just finished school. With her lunchbox finally in hand, she smiled gratefully.

"He brought it just like he promised! See, Evan? My friend isn't bad—he gave me lunch and didn't even try to kidnap me," she beamed as she hugged her older brother.

Evan raised an eyebrow, amused and concerned. "Oh… he brought you chicken? Where is he now?"

"He said he wants to meet you too. He'll be here soon."

Evan sighed. "Alright, I guess I can wait a bit. Vicky's busy with work and she'll only be home later."

Emily's eyes lit up. "She's catering today, right? That means she'll bring food?"

"Yes," Evan replied with a small smile, then noticed a card tucked into Emily's shirt pocket. "What's this?"

"That's Mr. Nate's number. He said we should call him if you came before he did."

Evan read the card aloud. "The Shikongo Estates…"

Just then, Emily's teacher approached and greeted them with a kind smile.

"Evan, you don't need to worry," she reassured him. "I know Mr. Shikongo personally. He's a good man—young, kind-hearted, driven. He used to be my husband's boss."

Evan looked skeptical. "Everyone is sweet and kind until they find gold. Maybe if I meet him, I'll believe it."

The teacher chuckled. "I'll call him right away."

Vicky arrived at the resort, calm and collected. She entered the office and knocked.

The manager looked up, a bit puzzled. "Victoria Samuels?"

"That's me," she said confidently.

"You know... I expected someone completely different," the manager said, examining her.

Vicky tilted her head. "Different how?"

"I mean, your application—it was so professional, so polished. I thought you were some international executive or something. And now here you are…"

"Were you hoping for an international professional?" she asked, raising a brow.

"No, no," the manager said, flustered. "Just didn't expect this Vicky Samuels. But luck seems to have favored you—you got the contract."

"By luck?" she echoed.

"Yes. There were applicants with stronger portfolios, verified credentials, corporate backing—people with industry names. But yours...not even verified with the Company, Triumph Events you said? "

"And yet you doubt me because my license doesn't have a company verification stamp? When you are the founder, you are the company. I've been in this industry long enough to know my worth."

The manager folded his arms, mildly impressed. "I hear you. Just... use the opportunity well. People from your background don't often get chances like this."

Vicky's eyes narrowed slightly, but she smiled. "Sir, let me tell you something. Looking at you, I'd say you grew up in the North. You came to Windhoek, struggled, hustled, found a stable job, and changed your life. I'm in that same boat. I'm just trying to turn what others call 'ordinary' into something unforgettable. Don't underestimate me."

From behind the desk, another voice cut through the room.

"She's self-driven. I like her."

Vicky turned, surprised to see a new figure.

"Oh—sir, I'm sorry, I didn't realize…"

"This is Mr. Jackson Nuujoma," the manager said quickly. "He owns Carlos Resorts and Events."

Vicky blinked, speechless.

Jackson stepped forward, smiling. "Vicky Samuels, I'm genuinely impressed. I make it a point to work with local talent for all our events. You came highly recommended, and your work speaks for itself. I've been watching the girl who started catering at fifteen and now holds a degree in Business Management. I wanted to test your vision, your strength—and you proved me wrong in the best way."

"I'm… I'm speechless, sir," Vicky said, overwhelmed but grateful. "Thank you so much."

"Don't thank me yet," Jackson said with a grin. "Now show me what makes you unforgettable."