Single dad missed his big interview to help a stranger, she was a CEO who changed everything…

But you’re on your way, so worth it. She studied him for a moment, her gaze steady. Then, get in.

Noah frowned. What? Get in the car, she repeated. I owe you more than dry shoes.

Something about the way she said it, calm, decisive, like she was used to giving orders and being obeyed, made him open the door and climb in without another word. The driver pulled away from the curb, and for the first time, Noah noticed the subtle details inside the SUV. The stitched leather seats, the faint scent of expensive perfume, and a folder on her lap, stamped with a Silver Company logo he’d seen somewhere before.

She glanced at him, a hint of a smile tugging at her lips. I’m Claire Dalton, she said, CEO of Dalton Tech. Noah blinked, the name hitting him like a thunderclap.

Dalton Tech, the very company he’d just been turned away from. Noah stared at her, the hum of the SUV filling the silence. You’re the CEO? he asked, disbelief heavy in his voice.

Claire tilted her head, studying him like she was reading lines only she could see. Last I checked, yes. Her tone was light, but her eyes were sharp.

And unless I’m mistaken, you were heading to an interview at my company this morning. Noah’s jaw tightened. Yeah, I was.

And you missed it, because you stopped to help me. He gave a small shrug. You were stuck in the rain.

Didn’t seem like a choice. Her lips quirked. Most people would have driven right past, or taken my money and left.

But you didn’t. The driver took a turn, and the SUV began climbing the winding road toward a cluster of glass towers perched above the city.

Noah had only ever seen this district from a distance, usually while delivering packages or picking up scrap metal for extra cash.

Now he was in it, so close he could see his reflection in the mirrored windows. I read your file, Claire said suddenly. My file? His brows furrowed.

Yes, she said, tapping the folder in her lap. I keep an eye on all candidates for certain positions. You are on my list for a logistics coordinator role.

Do you know why? Noah shook his head slowly.

Your resume is… unconventional, she continued. Marine Corps veteran, two commendations for bravery, small business owner for three years, volunteer at a community shelter…