CHAPTER TWENTY FOUR – THE FIRST INTERVIEW

The next morning, butterflies fluttered in Karina's stomach as she pulled into the parking lot of the Happy Paws Animal Shelter. The building itself was a charming two-story structure painted in a cheerful shade of yellow. A hand-painted sign proclaimed in bold letters: "Giving homeless pets a second chance!" Taking a deep breath, Karina straightened her interview outfit – a crisp blouse and dark pants – and stepped inside. The lobby was bustling with activity. Volunteers hustled about, leading dogs on leashes or carrying squirming kittens in crates. The air hummed with the happy cacophony of barks, meows, and chirps. At the reception desk, a young woman with a bright smile greeted Karina. "Hi! Can I help you?" "Hi," Karina responded, butterflies multiplying. "I'm here for the job interview?" "Of course! Are you Karina Gomez?" "Yes, that's me." The receptionist tapped away at her computer. "Great! You're in the group interview at 10:00 sharp. Take a seat in the waiting area, a