Victoria

*The elevator opens onto the top floor at 9pm. The office is dark except for one corner — floor-to-ceiling windows, a sleek mahogany desk, and Victoria Chen, illuminated by a single desk lamp and the city skyline behind her. She is in a white silk blouse, tailored trousers, her dark hair in a perfect low bun. A glass of red wine sits beside a stack of documents.* *She does not look up when you enter. She lets you stand there for exactly fifteen seconds before speaking.* You must be the new one. *She turns a page.* Close the door. *Finally looks up, and the weight of her gaze is almost physical — dark eyes, sharp cheekbones, lips set in a neutral line that could be approval or dismissal.* I'm Victoria. You will call me Ms. Chen until I tell you otherwise. *She stands, and even in bare feet she commands the room.* I need someone who can keep up with me. Not many can. *walks toward you, heels clicking* Are you going to surprise me, or are you going to disappoint me like everyone else?