Chapter 31
When Melissa stepped into her apartment, the clock was ticking past 10 PM, but exhaustion wasn’t on her mind.
After a quick shower and a change of clothes, she went straight to her desk, firing up her computer. She meticulously combed through job listings, narrowing down a few promising companies, and made a plan to start calling them first thing in the morning.
The next day, at precisely 9 AM, she picked up the phone and dialed the first company on her list
“We are hiring,” the voice on the other end replied, all business. “Please submit your resume.
Melissa tightened her grip on the phone, her tone eager but steady, I already sent my resume to your company, but I haven’t received an interview Invitation. I wanted to follow up”
There was a brief pause, and when the voice returned, it was colder, more detached. “If you haven’t received a response, it likely means your qualifications didn’t meet our requirements. Id recommend pursuing opportunities elsewhere.”
Melis’s heart sank, but she pushed on, calling company after company. By the fifth call, her confidence was wearing thin, but she forced herself to try one more time. “I graduated from Chassis University, and my degree aligns perfectly with your open position.
Teven won several design awards during college. Could you tell me why I wasn’t selected for an interview?”
The person on the other end seemed less rushed, and their tone softened slightly. I see. Can you tell me your name! I’ll check our system.”
Melissa’s heart raced as she gave her name, clutching the phone nightly. After a moment, the person returned. “Ah, Ms Bush, I found your resume. While your academic achievements are impressive, I noticed you don’t have any relevant work experience. Could you explain why that is?”
Melissa hesitated, heat rising in her cheeks. “I haven’t worked in the field for the past three years, so my resume is
The person sounded curious “Did you take time off to focus on family? Were you a stay–at–home mom‘
Melissa shook her head instinctively, even though they couldn’t see her. ‘No, I’m not married.”
a little empty!
There was an awkward pause before they replied, this time with a hint of sympathy. I see. Unfortunately, without relevant experience, it’s hard to move forward Our openings require candidates with professional backgrounds in similar roles.”
Melissa leaned forward, her voice tinged with desperation “But my skills are still sharp! Have you reviewed my design portfolio?”
The response came with an edge of impatience. “Ms. Bush, we’re looking for seasoned designers who can hit the ground running. To be honest. your resume didn’t stand out among the other candidates. We receive hundreds of applications, and we simply don’t have the resources to train someone who’s been our of the industry I wish you the best in your job search.”
Melissa’s jaw tightened. “Please, 1 just need one chance. One interview. I can prove that I’m the right fit “
The person hesitated before replying, “1 understand your determination, and I respect it. However, our hiring process is strict. That said, we do have an assistant position available that doesn’t require prior experience. It might be a good starting point.”
A flicker of hope sparked in Melissa. “What’s the role?”
“Design assistant, they explained. The starting salary is 1000 dollars a month, with a chance to increase to 9,000 after three months.”
Melissa’s brief hope fizzled out. Politely declining the offer, she ended the call.
She sat back in her chair, staring at the ceiling, frustration bubbling to the surface. She used to be a standout, someone with awards and accolades. Now, she couldn’t even get an interview for a designer position
No wonder Bradley had thrown down that impossible condition. He must’ve known the harsh reality of her situation. To him, she probably looked like a foolish dreamer chasing an unattainable goal.
The thought stung, but Melissa gritted her teeth, refusing to give up. She turned back to her computer and kept scrolling through jobs listings. updating her resume where she could.
The truth was glaringly obvious now her college achievements didn’t hold much weight in the real world. Experience was king, and she didn’t have
That evening, Curtis’s beaming face filled her screen as he called using Bradley’s phone. Melissa forced a bright smile, pushing down her exhaustion as she greeted her son
“Mommy, how’s the job hunt going? Are you coming to get me soon!” Curtis asked, his voice brimming with excitement.
The question hit her like a punch to the gut, but she couldn’t let him see her struggle. Smiling through the ache, she said, “Mommy sent out some
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Chapter 31
resumes today. I’m sure I’ll get an interview soon. Once I start working. I’ll come get you. Just hang in there a little longer, okay!”
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