In Irina's Cards (The Variant Conspiracy #1) by Christine Hart

had a shot at the job, which made me even more nervous. I couldn’t think of a single question to ask. None of his explanation of what Innoviro did made any sense to me. Used cars–no problem. Advanced scientific testing–that’s biting off a handful more than I could chew. He had to be humoring me based on his personal level of professional tact. I took a deep breath. A graceful exit was the most dignity I could retain at this point.
    “What I’m looking for in an assistant is, I’m ashamed to say, mostly personal. Since I started Innoviro six years ago, we’ve experienced a phase of hyper-growth, adding offices in several other cities, and I can’t keep up with the demands on my time. Melissa’s role is to take care of Innoviro’s administrative needs and to run our Victoria office. To put it bluntly, I’m looking for someone to run my personal errands, help me manage my schedule, and book appointments. Basically you’d take care of the minor stuff that slows down my day.” He chuckled briefly and then looked down as he continued, “It’s not stimulating or exciting work. But it’s my hope that whomever we bring on board for this position can grow within the company once my schedule slows down enough that I can look after myself again.”
    I wanted to launch into a speech, making my case for the job. A sensible question finally came to mind. “Wow. The job is pretty much what I expected. But, the stuff you work on here is way out of my league. I don’t want to pretend I’m something I’m not. I have no academic background in science or business. Are you sure I will be able to grow within the company? Won’t I need additional training?”
    “We do look for some kind of post-secondary education, within one of the academic sciences or from a technical institute’s lab tech program. But as this particular job relates to my personal needs, I think someone with less training is actually an asset. I want an assistant to do the job the way I ask, rather than someone who tries to perform the role from a textbook. When it’s time for a promotion, you’ll have learned everything you need to know.”
    I still had no idea what I was getting into, but Ivan made his sale. I wanted to work for him. “Think of me as a blank slate.” I smiled nervously. “I’m a hard worker, I’m smart, and I learn fast. I know that sounds kind of generic, but it’s true. Point me at whatever you need done and I’ll get on it right away. If I don’t know how to do something, I always figure it out.”
    “You do seem like a bright girl. But I should also let you know that we demand the full attention of our employees and ask for passion, dedication, and loyalty. I want employees who are willing to ‘drink the Kool-Aid’ so to speak.”
    “Sounds good to me.” I still wasn’t sure what he meant, but hoped to wrap up the meeting before I rambled my way back out of the job. “Do you need me to fill out an application or something? Should I leave the number for my motel with Melissa?”
    “I don’t think that’s necessary. I’m happy to get the paperwork started on hiring you today. Congratulations; the job belongs to you if you want it.”
    “Great! That’s so awesome! I mean, thank you for the opportunity.”

Chapter 4
    Ivan grinned again and shook my hand. His icy iron grip caught me off guard, but I pumped back as firmly as I could. He instructed Melissa to print and pass me forms for both Innoviro human resources and government taxes. I filled them out hunched over the coffee table near the reception desk. Ivan asked me to come back first thing the next day. Melissa’s dejected expression had no effect on him.
    I returned the papers and collected my jacket as other employees emerged from that vault door, probably to go for lunch. I scanned their faces, looking for Jonah or Cole, but neither of them appeared. Seeing Jonah again was bound to happen, so I smiled to myself anyway.
    The walk home felt effortless,