CHAPTER SIXTY-ONE - THE EYE OF THE STORM

  Nia rushed around her apartment, hastily buttoning her blouse as Maria called from the living room. "Come on, Nia! We're going to be late!" "Just a sec!" Nia shouted back, grabbing her purse and keys. She dashed out of her bedroom to find Maria tapping her foot impatiently by the door. "Finally," Maria sighed. "You know how important this is for me." Nia nodded, following her friend out the door. "I know, I know. New job, big sale. I'm excited for you." As they hurried down the street, Maria chatted nervously about her upcoming first day. Nia listened, offering encouragement, but her mind wandered to her own workplace drama. They arrived at the department store just as the doors were opening. Maria squeezed Nia's hand. "Wish me luck!" "You've got this," Nia smiled, watching her friend disappear into the bustling store. Turning to leave, Nia nearly collided with a man in a dark suit. "Oh, excuse me," she mumbled, sidestepping him. "Are you Nia Moreno?" the man asked, his voi