Chapter 5 THE INTERVIEW

Mackenzie wanted to share the news with her parents at first but she decided that there was no need.

Mackenzie woke up early, feeling a mix of excitement and nerves. She had been waiting for this day for what felt like an eternity. It was true she got the email yesterday, but the high was longer than the other nights. She got out of bed, stretched, and began her morning routine. As she brushed her teeth, she couldn't help but think about the interview ahead. She had been preparing for this moment, but she couldn't shake off the feeling of uncertainty.

After getting dressed, Mackenzie went downstairs to the kitchen, where her parents were already having breakfast. She poured herself a bowl of cereal and sat down, trying to act nonchalant.

"Morning, sweetie," her mother said, noticing Mackenzie's quiet demeanor. "What's wrong? You seem a bit off today."

Mackenzie hesitated, unsure if she should share the news. But something about her mother's warm smile put her at ease.

"I got an email from Rodriguez Empire yesterday," Mackenzie said, trying to sound casual. "They want me to come in for an interview today."

Her parents exchanged a surprised glance, and then her father spoke up.

"That's amazing, Mackenzie! We're so proud of you!" He got up from his seat and gave her a warm hug.

Mackenzie's mother joined in, and they both showered her with congratulations and words of encouragement. Mackenzie felt a surge of happiness, knowing she had their support.

As they finished breakfast, Mackenzie's father handed her a small piece of paper.

"What's this?" she asked.

"It's a note I wrote down not long ago," he said. "I know you will succeed in today's interview, so I wanted to remind you of something. Read it before you leave."

Mackenzie nodded, feeling a lump form in her throat. She folded the note and put it in her pocket, knowing she would read it later.

With her parents' blessings, Mackenzie left for the interview, feeling a sense of determination. She arrived at the Rodriguez Empire building, a towering skyscraper that seemed to touch the clouds. She took a deep breath, smoothed out her dress, and walked inside.

The lobby was bustling with people, but Mackenzie spotted the reception desk easily. She approached the friendly-looking receptionist and introduced herself.

"Hi, I'm Mackenzie McDonald. I'm here for the interview."

The receptionist smiled and checked her list. "Ah, yes! You're right on time. Please, take a seat, and someone will call you shortly."

Mackenzie sat down, trying to calm her nerves. She noticed a few other candidates, all looking equally anxious. She took out the note from her father and read it:

"Believe in yourself, Mackenzie. You have so much potential. Remember, it's not just about the job; it's about the opportunities that come with it. Be confident, be yourself, and make us proud. We love you, no matter what."

Tears pricked at the corners of her eyes as she folded the note and put it back in her pocket. She felt a sense of gratitude towards her parents, knowing they were always there to support her.

Before she knew it, a woman with a warm smile called her name.

"Mackenzie McDonald?"

Mackenzie stood up, smoothing out her dress, and followed the woman to the interview room.

As they walked, Mackenzie couldn't help but wonder what lay ahead. Would she get the job? Would she impress Ethan, the mysterious CEO?

The woman opened the door to a spacious room, and Mackenzie's eyes widened as she saw Ethan sitting behind a large desk, looking more handsome than she remembered.

"Good morning, Mackenzie," he said, his voice low and smooth. "Please, take a seat."

Mackenzie sat down, trying to compose herself. She knew this was just the beginning of a journey that could change her life forever.

Ethan leaned back in his chair, his eyes fixed on Mackenzie. "So, tell me, Mackenzie, what makes you think you're the right fit for the Rodriguez Empire?"

Mackenzie took a deep breath, trying to remember the answers she had prepared. "Well, sir, I believe my skills and experience make me a strong candidate. I've worked hard to develop my skills in marketing and management, and I'm confident I can bring value to your team."

Ethan nodded, his expression unreadable. "I see. And what do you know about the Rodriguez Empire?"

Mackenzie hesitated, unsure how much to reveal. "I know it's a leading company in the industry, known for its innovative approaches and commitment to excellence. I've also heard rumors about the company's...unconventional methods."

Ethan raised an eyebrow, a hint of a smile on his lips. "Unconventional methods? That's an interesting way to put it. Can you elaborate?"

Mackenzie felt a surge of nervousness, unsure if she should have mentioned that. "I just meant that the company seems to be willing to take risks and challenge the status quo. I admire that kind of thinking."

Ethan leaned forward, his eyes locked on hers. "I see. Well, Mackenzie, I think you'll find that we're not just about taking risks. We're about pushing boundaries and exploring new possibilities. And I think you could be a valuable asset to our team."

Mackenzie felt a flutter in her chest, unsure what to make of Ethan's words. Was he hinting at something more?

The interview continued, with Ethan asking her questions about her experience, her goals, and her motivations. Mackenzie answered as best she could, trying to showcase her skills and enthusiasm.

As the interview drew to a close, Ethan stood up, his eyes never leaving hers. "Thank you, Mackenzie. That's all for now. We'll be in touch soon to let you know our decision."

Mackenzie nodded, feeling a mix of relief and disappointment. She had hoped for a clearer answer, but she knew she had to wait.

As she left the building, Mackenzie couldn't shake off the feeling that she had just scratched the surface of something much deeper. She wondered what lay ahead, and whether she was ready for the challenges that Rodriguez Empire might bring.

Meanwhile, Ethan watched her leave, a thoughtful expression on his face. He couldn't deny the spark he had felt during the interview, the sense that Mackenzie was hiding something beneath her polished exterior.

He turned to his assistant, who was waiting patiently in the corner of the room. "What do you think? Should we take a chance on her?"

His assistant hesitated, unsure of what to say. "I think she's qualified, sir. But there's something about her...I'm not sure what it is, but I think she might be more than just a talented employee."

Ethan nodded, his mind already made up. "I agree. Let's make her an offer. I want to see what she's capable of."

And with that, the fate of Mackenzie McDonald was sealed. She was about to enter a world of intrigue, passion, and power, where the lines between right and wrong would be constantly blurred.