As Helen sat in the waiting area, she couldn't help but overhear the conversation happening a few seats down. Anna, a tall woman with perfectly styled hair and an air of smug confidence, was chatting loudly with her friend, who was equally poised and self-assured. Their voices carried across the room, drawing the attention of several other candidates, including Elena.
"Can you believe it?" Anna said with a laugh, flipping her hair over her shoulder. "I'm so glad Uncle Malcolm is on the panel. It's like, why did I even bother preparing for this interview? My spot is basically guaranteed."
Her friend, a petite woman with sharp features, nodded enthusiastically. "I know, right? And it's so cool that he's getting me in too. I mean, who needs qualifications when you've got connections?" She let out a giggle that grated on Elena's nerves.
