Free Conflicted (Secrets and Lies) by M. M. Koenig Page A

great opportunity," I murmured.
    He leaned back tapping his fingers together. "Your resume indicated you were studying journalism. I can't help but wonder why you would apply for a position with a finance company. It doesn't seem like an industry you'd have interest in if you were serious with your studies."
    I gulped. "I took my studies in journalism very seriously. However, I've come to realize to succeed in any career it is important to have wide range of knowledge and expertise. Since my studies had such a narrow focus, I wanted to expand into other areas."
    "Why do you think that this position is the best fit for you?" he questioned.
    His eyes burned into me completely unreadable. My stomach fluttered at the intensity exuding from him. I prayed my heartbeat would slow down a little. It was beating so loud that it sounded like someone was hammering a board right next to us.
    "I believe it's an opportunity to learn about this industry. I think that the position offers possibilities to learn skills that will benefit me in any industry," I responded.
    He cocked his head to the side bringing his long fingers to his chiseled chin letting them linger above his lips. My body temperature went up several more degrees as I stared at his mouth watching his fingers trace his lips. It took everything in my power not to let my body stray to his and replace his fingers with my tongue.
    God, focus Mia!
    "Why are you interested in working for our company?" he asked with a thin smile.
    "It's well known throughout the financial industry that this company is the most successful privately owned finance company this city has ever seen. I strive to perform at my best in everything I do and your company can give me the opportunity to learn from the best."
    "I don't need to ask you what your major achievements are to date. It's obvious that you climb to the top in all that you do. You were editor in chief of one of the most renowned college newspapers in circulation. You work history confirms that you have held a variety of positions that have given you diverse skills that are all necessary for this position. The 4.0 GPA is an excellent attribute as well. What I can't overlook is the gap from your enrollment last fall at the university to you sitting here today. Can you please clarify why you're not finishing your degree?"
    His question jolted me out of the electric trance his body had me in."There was a misunderstanding that led to my dismissal from Eckman. The entire experience brings me back to my first answer. It's imperative to have as much knowledge as you can in a variety of areas. It was an unfortunate blemish for me but I've learned from it," I replied not showing any sign of weakness.
    "What has it taught you?" he pressed.
    "It's led me to believe that we can learn just as much by firsthand experience in the work force than in a lecture hall. I've elected to take time away from academics to test the skills and knowledge I've acquired thus far and to continue to grow personally and professionally."
    His fingers drummed on the desk. After a short pause, his eyes connected with mine. There was a hint of understanding from him as he stared at me. "I appreciate your honesty. Most people lie to cover up their downfalls. You've chosen to embrace it as well as learn from it. That's impressive. Have you decided against pursuing journalism? What I'd like to confirm is your long term goal here?"
    "If I'm going to pursue a career as a journalist, there is a lot I need to learn that books can't teach me," I clarified.
    "Why move towards the finance industry?" he inquired.
    The fingers that were tapping the desk were now running back and forth across his perfect jaw line. He was so unreadable but definitely intrigued in everything I had to say which made sense since this was an interview after all.
    Really Mia, has your basic reasoning left the building all together?
    "The driving force in our economy is business and ultimately the financial industry.