Page 6 of Hate You Up Close

My jet-black hair tumbles around my shoulders, looking sleek and glossy from a fresh wash. I’m wearing more makeup than usual, but it’s still light enough to allow the freckles dusting my nose and cheeks to peek through. I stare back at myself through dark lashes, my green eyes twinkling with an excitement I haven't seen in years.

This is a fresh start, Roxy.Here’s to new beginnings.

I confidently smile back at my reflection before exiting the elevator.

As soon as I step out onto the floor, a beautiful woman with chestnut hair and ocean-blue eyes walks my way with a kind smile stretched across her face.

“Thanks, Grace. I’ll take it from here,” she nods toward the woman who escorted me.

Her piercing gaze turns to me as she extends a hand in greeting. I immediately notice the simple, yet breathtaking diamond ring adorning her left hand.

She’s a lucky girl.

“Hi, Roxanne?” she asks before wrapping her fingers around my palm in a firm shake.

“Yes,” I smile, pulling my hand back and tucking a lock of hair behind my ear. “But you can call me Roxy.”

“Then Roxy it is,” she beams without question. “I’m Skylar, and I’ll be your main point of contact throughout the recruiting process. I know we’ve been communicating via email, but it's nice to meet you in person.”

“Nice to meet you as well,” I return. “I can’t get over this building. It’s absolutely breathtaking.”

“It’s not bad, huh?” she chuckles. “And the views aren’t too shabby either.”

I look over her shoulder, stealing a glance at the massive windows surrounding the office space. I’m not sure what floor we are on, but it must be high up because I can see the entire city of Dallas from here. It’s unbelievable to think I live here now.

This is my city.

Less than a minute later, I’m sitting across from Skylar in her office. I set my purse down by my feet before getting comfortable in a leather chair. Silence fills the room as Skylar spreads out my resume and application.

My eyes dart to a picture frame on her desk, showcasing Skylar and who I assume is her husband…or maybe he’s just her fiancé. He’s not wearing a ring in the photo. Either way, they make a gorgeous couple. Skylar is staring up at him like he hung the moon, and he’s staring down at her like she placed the stars inthe sky. Mountains surround them in the background, making for the picture-perfect moment. It's almost as if I can feel their love radiating through the photo.

“Thanks again for coming in today, Roxy,” Skylar chimes in, pulling me from my thoughts. “I don’t want to take up too much of your time, so let’s go ahead and get started. Tell me a little bit about yourself and your interest in this position.”

Ah, the dreadedtell me about yourselfquestion. I know it's her job to ask, but I have to force myself not to roll my eyes. What’s the point in submitting a resume when I have to repeat everything that’s on it?

I doubt she wants my life story, so I’m going to make this short and sweet.

“Well, my name is Roxanne. But I go by Roxy, which you already know,” I smile awkwardly. “My family moved around a lot as a kid, so I can’t say I’m from one particular place. I’ve always wanted to live in Dallas, and I promised myself that if I wasn't settled by the age of twenty-five then I would give it a try. So, I didn’t hesitate when the big two-five came around this year,” I chuckle. “I’ve been here a little over a month, and I’m just excited about the opportunity to have a fresh start.”

Skylar nods her head and smiles, giving me her full attention.

“Aside from that,” I continue. “I have my bachelor's degree in business from Arizona State University, and I have three-plus years of experience working in administration. I love busy work, excel sheets, organizing, and problem-solving. When I saw the job posting, the description had everything I’m looking for in a full-time position. So…yeah,” I finish nervously. “I hope that answers your question. I’m just excited to be here.”

She scribbles a few notes on my resume before looking up and placing her pen down on the desk.

“Well, welcome to Dallas,” she beams, turning her headtoward the transparent walls to take in the iconic skyline. “I’m glad you’re enjoying it so far. How did you hear about this position?”

“From an online job site,” I reply, clasping my hands together in my lap. “Not only am I looking for a position that matches my qualificationsandexperience, but I want to work for a reputable company as well. Ace Financial is the first corporation that caught my attention. After reading loads of good reviews, I applied right away.”

“Great,” she nods like she’s happy with my response. “I’ve been with the company for four years now, and I love it. I definitely had to teach myself how to maintain a healthy work-life balance, but I wouldn't want to be anywhere else. The benefits are amazing, and the people are even better. My team really does feel like my second family.”

Okay, this woman is very nice, but she can spare me thesecond familybullshit. We all know that’s a line that every recruiter uses.

Instead of rolling my eyes, I purse my lips together and force a fake smile.

“So, I know this can be a tricky question,” she continues, “but what would you consider to be your biggest strength and weakness?"

I twiddle my thumbs while chewing on my bottom lip, pondering if I should be honest or provide the cookie-cutter answer she’s looking for.