Gemotions

The news broke during the mandatory all-hands meeting. As the CEO's voice boomed through the speakers, announcing the company's acquisition, I felt the blood drain from my face. My hands became clammy, and my knees felt weak.

I squeezed my eyes shut for a moment. I could see the faces of my coworkers, their expressions reflecting a multitude of anxieties. I didn't want to look at them. I wanted to disappear. The world tilted, the room spinning slightly.

The speaker’s words were a monotone drone, but they felt like a personal assault. Every detail, every implication, echoed in my mind. The implications of this sale were vast and looming, and I felt trapped.

After the meeting, I avoided eye contact with everyone. I returned to my desk, my lunch uneaten, a bitter lump in my throat. I couldn't bear to be touched.