Page 31 of Chandelier Enthralled
“I take risks,” I said.
“How?”
“I’m willing to risk my safety if necessary.”
She studied my face. “I believe you.”
I gave a nod, sensing she liked my answer.
“You researched us. We researched you.”
She knows I’m a Cole.
My breath caught in my throat.
She grinned, heightening the tension.
I didn’t want to admit I was from the New York Coles, who owned a tea empire. Cameron and Henry were the ones steering the company through the twenty-first century. I couldn’t shake the guilt I felt over chasingthisfor myself.
“Do you know what I need?” She had the answer balancing on the tip of her tongue. “A woman willing to use her contacts.”
“Integrity is important.”
“Fuck integrity.” She gestured for me to sit. “I want the story.”
This wasn’t just an interview, it was me navigating a world where power and privilege held sway, where secrets were currency, and where the line between truth and illusion blurred like ink on paper.
I was determined to carve out my place in this world, but I’d never sacrifice pieces of myself along the way.
She stood up suddenly, startling me. “I want you to do something for me.”
“I’m interested in hearing more.”
“We’ll discuss the details later. I’m going to have your contract drawn up.”
“I got the job?” Giddiness rushed through me.
“Yes, but for now, don’t share with anyone that you work for us. Being covert is how I’ll get you into rooms where people talk. If they know you’re with the press, they’ll keep their mouths shut.”
“Not even my family?”
“Not even your family.” She headed towards the door. “Please me, and I’ll see that ambition of yours realized.”
I stood and put on my jacket. “I won’t let you down.”
She paused and looked back at me. “You’re smart enough to know this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”
She strolled out of the room with the same powerful aura she had entered with.
Joe reappeared in the doorway. “How did it go?”
“She offered me the job!”
He smiled and then gave me a curious look. “Wanna tell me why she gatecrashed my interview?”
She’d not introduced herself. “She’s from HR?”
He looked astonished. “Her family own Pulse360.”
