Is This True?

Chapter 2

"Miss Patterson!"

My eyes scan the room from top to bottom and side to side as I take notice of the number of classy women and gentlemen all seated comfortably around a long vertical table. One man, in particular, whom I assumed was Mr. Woods, stood on the opposite end of the room as I approached the table slowly and shyly.

"We've all been expecting you."

"I'm sorry if I appeared late." My hands only tightened even more together behind my back in nervousness, but my head and shoulders remained high in desiring confidence.

"I take full responsibility."

"No, need to apologize Miss Patterson."

Mr. Woods sat down and scooted his seat closer to the table, spreading papers and files on either side. "You are forgiven."

"Thank you," I replied with a small smile, hoping this interview would speed up. I don't think I could handle all the squinty stares everyone was giving me much longer as if they were sizing me up for the unknown task ahead.

"You may take a seat." Mr. Woods extended his hand to the only empty seat in the room which happened to be the one in front of me and the one on the very end.

Wonderful.

Again, all heads turned towards me as I sat down in the comfortable gray plush chair.

"So, Miss Patterson? Tell me, what experience do you have with the law?"

What type of question was that?

"Umm..."

"Meaning have you broken it?"

"Well no, I haven't--"

"Have you used anything illegal such as drugs, underage drinking, or smoking?"

"No--"

"Ever gotten a speeding ticket or discharge of your driver's license?"

"No--"

"How physically fit have you been trained?"

"Well, I run two miles every morning and I took some classes in karate."

Mr. Woods paused, inspecting me further as he pressed, "What is your knowledge about the FBI?"

His questions were so vague at times.

"Umm..."

"How well do you think you'd do on a case? Such as working and cooperating well with others, using logic, developing skills or techniques, or arresting criminals? How are your skills in multitasking and critical thinking? Attention to detail? Excellent communication skills? Writing reports? How well do you work in high-pressure situations?"

"Well--" The palms of my hands grew even more sweaty as I wiped them on my skirt.

How was I to answer this one?

Pairs of eyes turned to stare at me from my silence, but after a few seconds, their awaiting was cut short.

"Well, I would do my best to get along with everyone, to share my opinions if it is liable or not, to help with the case, and do my duty as an agent should to show responsibility, initiative, and insight. And possibly, use my past experiences of knowledge to help me get through where everything needs to be. I'm very organized and pay attention to detail. I think I would do well getting this team on the right track. I am calm in high-pressure situations and do my best to calm others. I am willing to learn anything you need me to."

The room was hushed before Mr. Woods continued, "And one last thing, what interested you in coming here?"

Here came the conclusion.