Bridgeport had always encompassed my ultimate vision of a perfect living and working destination. As a sprawling town, it offers a diverse and dynamic cultural environment, brimming with energy. The meandering river that flows through its heart adds to its picturesque appeal. I was particularly enamored by its enthusiasm for events and entertainment, which resonates with my own fervor for the same. Bridgeport truly embodies the epitome of a dream location, combining the best of both worlds- a bustling metropolis with a natural charm.

As I neared the towering glass structure, a sense of unease washed over me. Despite the bright sunlight and warm breeze of the summer morning, the building exuded a cold and unwelcoming aura. I hesitated before making my way towards the entrance, unsure if I even wanted to step inside. I took a deep breath and reminded myself to be brave. Pacing back and forth, I nervously patted my cheeks to calm myself down. 

There was turning back. 

I carefully smoothed out the wrinkles in my dress with a single, confident wipe of my palms. My outfit of choice for the day was a chic mini pleated dress, featuring a sophisticated combination of a black sleeveless lace top and a cream-colored skirt. Although it may have seemed plain to some, I found its simplicity to be quite pretty. To achieve a more understated look, I paired the dress with black tights and vintage leather pointed-toe loafers.

Regrettably, my footwear proved to be quite troublesome as I walked towards the sprawling front desk. I felt self-conscious about the loud squeaking noise my shoes were making. It seemed like every step I took was drawing unwanted attention to myself. I desperately hoped that the receptionist would not notice or be bothered by it. However, before I could even introduce myself, I noticed the young girl behind the desk stand up from her chair. She was dressed impeccably in a well-designed pants suit. 

“Good day, Ms. Hyde,” she greeted. “I have been expecting you.”

I inquired inquisitively, "What made you realise that I am Ms. Hyde?" 

"According to my schedule, I have only one appointment at ten-thirty. Surprisingly, there's never been a late arrival for an interview here. Follow me down this hall, please.”

I politely nodded and proceeded to follow her. She led me down a pristine hallway and into a room that exuded an air of formality. The room was painted entirely in a crisp white, creating a sense of cleanliness and elegance. In the center of the room stood a long, polished mahogany table with eight black leather chairs neatly arranged around it. The walls were bare, lacking any decoration or distractions. 

I sat in the waiting room feeling a rush of nerves course through me. The receptionist had left, leaving me alone with my thoughts and the sound of my own racing heartbeat. I took deep breaths, trying to calm my mind and focus on the upcoming interview. But the silence in the room only added to the tense atmosphere, leaving me feeling even more on edge. I knew I had to compose myself before my interviewer arrived, but the anticipation and pressure were almost suffocating. 

"Excuse me, were you not listening? Or did you get bored and tune out?" 

I suddenly leaped in surprise, taken aback by the sound of her voice. “I am happy to be here. I am far from feeling bored.”  

I couldn't help but wonder, who exactly was this woman speaking? 

"My name is Rias. If you're finished staring like a bewildered child, may I know your name?" she stated in a sharp and curt tone. 

“I go by the name of Kichi Hyde.” My nerves were racing as I try to compose myself.

She settled into the chair across from me, then asked, "So, what qualities do you possess that make you a valuable employee?"

"I would describe myself as reliable," I replied, doing my best to maintain my composure under her intense gaze.

Thinking for a moment, she jotted some notes on the notepad in front of her. “The ideal employee is one who consistently delivers results. Moving on. All of my interviewees aspire to join the prestigious Liberty team, but it takes a special quality to thrive in this environment. So, Ms. Hyde, please enlighten me. What motivates you to pursue a career at Liberty?"

"I have a strong, unwavering passion to acquire a thorough understanding of the entertainment industry, and Liberty serves as the perfect launchpad for my journey."

“I see,” Rias muttered and continued writing.

My eyes fell upon my entwined fingers, a sense of unease washed over me. I had always preferred to keep to myself, avoiding the scrutiny and attention of others. However, I realised that I could no longer hide in the shadows. I trying to enter an industry that would require me to put myself out there, and the thought filled me with anxiety. The challenge ahead seemed daunting, and I feared that I might crumble under the pressure. 

“Rias!”

Someone from outside the room suddenly called out to my interviewer. Despite the interruption, Rias remained silent, prompting the voice to call out once again. Soon, the door swung open, revelling a stunning young woman who entered the room with confidence. My heart skipped a beat as I tried to process the unexpected turn of events. The air in the room suddenly felt charged with excitement and anticipation as the woman's presence commanded my attention.

Ray Lars paused momentarily before her eyes scanned the room with a quick and efficient sweep. When her emerald eyes suddenly caught mine I sense a hint of surprise or perhaps recognition in her gaze. I couldn’t be sure. I found myself wondering what thoughts were running through her mind in that moment. 

I gazed at her from across the room and wondered if she remembered me. I could not believe the desperation that overcame me, the longing to be recognised by this woman. A flush of embarrassment crept up my face as I realised how much I yearned for her attention.

"Sorry," she uttered to Rias, "I was unaware that you were occupied." 

"I informed you yesterday that the final candidate would be arriving for an interview.” 

"Really? Did you actually say that?" Ray's expression twisted into a comical look of surprise.

"Are you even paying attention when I talk to you?" 

The words "Not really" escaped Ray's lips with a taunting grin, causing Rias to shoot back a sharp glare in response.

I had not expected to see her again, least of all in this setting.

Ray's cell phone suddenly began to ring, yet she appeared hesitant to pick up. "I have to take this call," she stated, as if giving in to the interruption. "Rias, can we talk outside in a little bit?" Ray requested before excusing herself and exiting the room. However, as she left, the heat did not fallow her out the door. I wondered, could Rias sense the warmth emanating from me, simply because I was in the same space as Ray? Was Rias able to detect the frantic beating of my heart? 

"That wraps up our interview. I appreciate you taking the time to come,” Rias remarked with a dismissive tone. 

“Thank you for seeing me.”