Gemotions

The fluorescent lights hummed, amplifying the unsettling feeling in Greg's gut. The HR manager's email had been succinct, leaving him with little room for negotiation. He was to train his replacement, a fresh-faced college graduate named Sarah.

He watched Sarah meticulously organize her desk, a direct mirror to how he ran his day. It felt like she was a phantom, observing his life and method. His jaw clenched. He found himself correcting her more harshly than was necessary, pointing out minor errors with an edge in his voice.

He felt an unfamiliar dryness in his mouth. The air in the office suddenly seemed thin, making each breath a conscious effort. He kept fiddling with his pen, his fingers drumming a nervous rhythm on the desk.