The candy company's field headquarters was located on the outskirts of town, just a few minutes' drive from the first factory they'd purchased. As Claire pulled up to the entrance, she couldn't help but notice the security cameras and high fencing around the perimeter. It seemed like overkill for a candy company.
After showing her ID and signing a nondisclosure agreement, Claire was escorted through the building and up to Elena's office on the top floor. The walls were lined with pictures of candy and awards the company had won over the years.
As Claire entered Elena's office, she couldn't help but notice how put together the woman looked as sat behind a large mahogany desk. Elena had perfectly styled blonde hair that fell in glossy waves around her shoulders. Her makeup was subtle but expertly applied, and her clothes were expensive and tailored to perfection. She exuded an air of confidence and power that was hard to ignore, making it clear that she was used to being in charge, despite the recent handover. When she looked up from her work, her smile was warm and inviting, but Claire couldn't help but feel like there was something hidden behind it, something that she couldn't quite put her finger on.
"Ms. Johnson – Claire, if I may? It's a pleasure to finally meet you," Elena said, standing up and offering her hand. "What brings you to our humble little headquarters?"
"I'm here to get the scoop on the new candy factory," Claire said amiably, shaking Elena's hand. "I was hoping to get an interview with you about the company's history and plans for the future."
Elena smiled, but there was something plastic about it. "Of course, I'd be happy to answer any questions you have. We're very excited about the factory and our new line of candies. We believe it's going to revolutionize the industry."
"I'm sure you do," Claire said, taking a seat across from Elena. "But I have to ask, why Spring Falls? It's not exactly a hub of industry."
Elena leaned back in her chair. "We chose Spring Falls because we saw an opportunity. The town has a great workforce and a lot of potential for growth. And of course, the local government was very welcoming."
Claire nodded. "And what about the stores? Why open so many so quickly?"
"We want to make sure our products are accessible to as many people as possible," Elena said with a forced cheeriness. "Plus, we're confident that once people try our candy, they'll be hooked."
Claire raised an eyebrow at the use of the word hooked. "Is there something particularly special about your candy that will make people want to keep buying it?"
Elena's smile faltered for a moment before she regained her composure. "Our candy is made with the finest ingredients and has a unique taste that sets it apart from the competition. We believe that once people try it, they'll be hooked on the taste."
Claire couldn't help but feel like Elena was avoiding the question. "And what about the rumors that your candy is addictive?"
Elena's smile turned frosty. "Those are just rumors, Claire. Our candy is no more addictive than any other candy on the market."
Claire wasn't convinced, but she knew she wasn't going to get any more information out of Elena. "Thank you for your time, Ms. Belmont," she said, standing up. "I'll be sure to include your comments in my article."
Elena stood up as well, her face back to being cordial. "I look forward to reading it," she said. "And I hope you'll come back and visit us soon."
As Claire left the building, she couldn't shake the feeling that there was something off about the whole situation. She needed more information, and she knew just where to go to get it.
As she walked out of the building, the receptionist handed her a complimentary gift box of the company's candies. At first, Claire was going to refuse, but then she changed her mind. She figured that if she was going to get to the bottom of this story, she needed to study the candies herself. She put the box in her car and pulled out of the lot, ready to start investigating.
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