She explained how she’d handled scheduling shortages, angry callers, inventory delays and conflicting priorities.

She did not mention sleeping in a car unless asked about the gap in her employment.

When the manager asked why she wanted to work there, her answer was simple.

“Because every appointment represents someone who needs something, and the calendar only works when the person behind it remembers that.”

On the ride back, she felt cautiously hopeful.

But hope had become difficult to trust.

At the inn, Sophie was making a paper chain from colored scraps Elena had brought.