CHAPTER TWENTY THREE – THE INTERVIEW

Scarlett adjusted her interview outfit for the tenth time, her stomach churning with nervous butterflies. The Happy Paws Animal Shelter was her dream job, a chance to finally leave the corporate world behind and make a real difference. The receptionist, a young woman with a bright smile and a nametag that read ‘Sarah,’ greeted Scarlett warmly. “Ms. O’Hara? Dr. Wilson is expecting you.” Sarah gestured towards a closed door at the end of the hallway. Scarlett took a deep breath and knocked. “Come in!” boomed a voice from inside. Scarlett pushed open the door to reveal a cramped office overflowing with paperwork and overflowing with warmth. Behind a cluttered desk sat a woman with kind eyes and a mess of gray hair pulled back in a loose bun. This must be Dr. Wilson. “You must be Scarlett!” Dr. Wilson boomed, her smile crinkling the corners of her eyes. “Come on in, come in! Have a seat.” Scarlett sat cautiously on the edge of a chair, her smile strained. “So, Scarlett,” Dr. Wilson