#Chapter 13: Crossed Wires

Amelia The interviews had gone better than I expected. A few awkward stumbles at first, but once I got in the rhythm of it, everything clicked. I could feel myself getting better—sharper. I started to enjoy it. Started to think maybe I was actually good at this. Which, of course, was when things got complicated. My next assignment came in with little warning: coordinate high-profile invitations for the upcoming charity event. The guest list was stacked with local dignitaries and retired warriors, but one name jumped out at me—and not in a good way. Elder Thorne. The man was a ghost in political circles. Respected, feared, almost never seen in public. He hadn’t attended anything remotely like this before. Inviting him felt like a trap. And then came the real catch: Jason and I were the only interns left. One of us would be offered a long-term role after the campaign. One spot. One test. My job? Get Elder Thorne to attend. I crafted the most respectful, precise, humble invi