The Labyrinth of Love

e stepped into the lobby, the emotion that surged through her was excitement at the prospect of a new beginning, not to mention awe at the sophisticati

establishment would have nipped that thought in the bud. The floors were marble, and a grand crystal chandelier hung d

ng briskly and purposefully. The space smelled of rich oud, coffee, and a mix of conflicting colo

irt fit like a glove, but its hue did nothing to accentuate her curves. She, however, accessorized with a zirconia teardrop necklace and matching

a cheery smile plastered on her face. She greeted, and the woman replied, rather, rec

r an interview here,”

t looks like there's been some sort of mistake.” Her face was strewn into what was meant to be an apologetic smile but truly came off as a knowing one, as though Lettie was

oming in and going out, the clink of shoes, the humming of the elevator, the smell of freshly baked snacks, and store-bought coffee—then she chuckled, smoothed down her skirt, took a deep breath,

is up, don't you?” She b

nist said softly with clenched teeth, raising her voice a n

ng it,” she deadpanne

er to ‘calm down,’ still smiling sweetly and raising her voice ever so slightly. Lettie had to give it to her; she succeeded in arousing a few peop

her face. To think she had thought the woman was professional and god forbid nice. However, being the one des

ght? I couldn’t make this up even if I wanted to… you see, I got an actual invitation from this company for an interview toda

squinting her eyes and craning her neck a little, as

ive vibes from you, and am I to show you this letter?” Lettie whi

sarcastically, enunciating every word. As soon as she found the

phone from her hand

expensive!” Lettie

ring upstairs.” She said after takin

e mused as she listened to the animated conversation bet

ing heard her, Candace asked sweetly

… it was

ered under her breath,

nquired as soon

ave a lovely day.” Candace said stiffly.

*

d as delicate brilliance. The entire tenth floor presented an antithesis to the grandeur of the lobby, charming in an elusive yet exotic way, gradually growing on anyone who entered. Appreciating it required intentiona

en. In the room stood the most genteel, if not straitlaced, woman she had ever seen. Her tweed plaid dress, an inch below the knees and in a drab brow

e met," the middle-aged

he woman's severe gaze turned her words into constipated gibberish. L

r. Though her words suggested relief, the monotony of her voice hi

last for 14 days. If we're satisfied, we'll keep you on. The job pays $25 hourly and you’ll work from 7 am to 6:00 pm throughout the duration. If you are retained after fourteen days, new employm

y rate of $25 was a significant increase from her former $9 rate, but it seemed the woman had confused her with som

stant job." The woman paused, looking at Let

re's no such vacancy. We