Page 71 of For One Night

She studies my face before giving in. “Only if you get this gig.”

“Yes! We’re going to rule the world.” I grab her, pulling her in for a hug.

She takes another spoonful of her cereal, glancing at the clothes I’ve set out for the interview. “One thing is for sure, you have to get a new wardrobe.”

“What’s wrong with what I have?” I walk over, picking through it.

She stands, joining me, picking up the first thing she sees. “This. I bet hard, cold cash, Carter bought it.”

“It says I’m a professional.”

She tosses it in the trash. “It screams old maid.”

“Hurry up, we’re going shopping.”

We dress and are out the door within the hour. Millie takes me to all of the best stores, helping me find the best buys and the latest trends. By the time we’re finished, I’m fully suited to run my own company.

“Please wear the navy dress with the gold belt and nude heels tomorrow. You look amazing in it.” She squishes me to her.

“I will, and make a list of things we’re going to need. I want to hit the ground running with this thing.”

She holds her fist out for me to bump it. “We’ve got this!”

“Always have, it just took us a little longer to get here.”

I watch as she drives away, thrilled with our plans for the future. Millie and I will turn this industry on its ear. “All I have to do, is nail this job.”

I’m up and ready early. I’ve studied the business and made notes on how and where to start, saving my best as a deal closer. I’m nervous, but I’m always nervous with every new chance.

Picking up my things, I get on the road sooner than I need to, but I’d rather be early than be on time. Highway Seventeen is busy, but I’ve seen it worse. By the time I get there, I’m wired and ready to go.

The façade is simple with their name on the front, O’Daly’s. I park in their private garage and opt to walk in the front of the building. I want the full effect to begin with, in case I need to pull something out quickly. It’s a new building, therefore, it’s impressive.

“Here goes nothing, Lola.” I push through the wide doors and walk with determination to the security desk.

“Hello, I’m Lola Turner. I have a ten am with Makenna.”

He smiles, handing me a badge and a pen. “Sign in here, and I’ll let her know you’re here.”

“Thank you.” I do as he asks and pin my badge on after. I wander over to the windows, taking in the sunshine and talking myself down to a low roar.

“Mrs. Turner?” I startle, spinning around to find a gray-haired lady grinning at me. “Oh, I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to surprise you.”

I take a deep breath, giggling. “Well, that’ll get the heart going.”

She extends her hand, and I take it. “I’m Alice, Makenna is ill today.”

“Oh, no. I hope she feels better.” I swallow hard. “Are we rescheduling?”

She points me toward the elevators. “Actually, you’ll be interviewing with the bosses today.”

“Excuse me?” I mean, I’m prepared for that, but it’s usually after the first pitch.

“No need to worry. They’re both wonderful men.” She holds the door, stepping on after me.

“I’m fine. It’s not a problem.” I roll my shoulders. “It’s usually the call back when I meet them.”

She nods. “Well, I think you’ll find things are different here, but I have no doubt you’ll love it.”

“I’m sure I will with a glowing review like yours.”

The doors open, and she follows me out. “Through those doors, and there’s no need to knock; they’re expecting you.”