Flawed (The Clans #12) - Elizabeth Knox Page 0,2

just maybe, this next one will be the one that gives me enough to really save for my future and stay for longer than two or three years, for that matter.

But I won’t turn anything down. A job’s a job.

I’ve heard of the company a few times before, even researched it a little, though it isn’t in my exact wheelhouse and hasn’t been around long. Hopeful Futures. And the message is directly from them, referring to a job post that’s been made only this morning. I know, because I follow the given link and check.

I know it seems fishy, but I also know this is a high dollar charity. Probably run by one or more very wealthy benefactors. All the paperwork I saw looked official, and so I’m not about to turn my nose up because it isn’t what I’m used to.

Hello, Melody. My name is Mariana, and I have seen your profile and experience. Would you be interested in interviewing for this position?

Just as I’ve done my research, she’s already done hers, and I can’t say it doesn’t catch my notice that it’s a charity run by a woman. Those are even harder to come by, and I’m all for it.

I would love to set up an interview. Thank you for considering me.

This Mariana gets back to me immediately, and what she says piques my interest even more.

I know it’s short notice, but can you interview today? Via Skype would be fine.

Today? She wants an interview today? Either she really liked what she saw, or she’s desperate. I refrain from any childish celebration or getting my hopes up, but I can’t control the leap of my heart in my chest at the prospect.

Yes, I happen to be free today.

Perfect. How is 6pm?

Sounds good. My Skype ID is Melody.Advocate

Please, be logged in and ready five minutes before our meeting time. I look forward to speaking with you.

You as well.

It’s several hours later when I end up in front of the computer, anxious for this interview.

My yoga pants and crop top put away, I opt for a pale, purple blouse that sets off my blue eyes and blonde hair well and always looks good on camera, or as good as anyone can look on a webcam. I’ve had to do many of these interviews and meetings this way. Some of the meetings with social services and the kids were even using this kind of tech rather than me seeing them in person for many reasons.

With one more check of my mic, webcam, and hair, I officially go online and wait for the call to come through from Hopeful Futures.

The call comes through a minute early, adding to the feeling of eagerness, and I answer right away.

The woman who appears on the screen must be Mariana, and she is blonde like me, thinner, but older. Though she has an exotic beauty about her I can’t place.

“Melody, it’s nice that you could make it. I know all of this has been very fast, but I am a busy woman and fly around the country a lot as do my associates, so getting everyone in one place and working on the same thing can be hard.”

This could be good. Someone into her work, just like me. “I totally get it. I haven’t had to travel more than 30 miles for work in the past, but it has kept me much busier than others. I appreciate you taking the time out of your schedule for me.” Every year I take the time to train for interview skills, learning what the appropriate behaviors are and what has changed, because the etiquette is always changing. And I want to be able to land any position I want, within a company I already work for, or for a new company when I’ve lost my job.

Like now.

“If you’re anything like what your profile makes you appear, the time is worth it.” She begins to go into my experience, and we glaze over some positions while she has me go into detail about others. Even asking questions about specific situations. She mentions more than once about how much of my work has involved children, and I know theirs also involves helping children in developing countries, though descriptions online are vague.

Not exactly unexpected for such a new organization.

“Honestly, I feel you are the best fit. I can’t find anyone else who would be available right now and have a resume as impressive as yours.” My whole body tingles at her words,