Gemotions

A cold sweat slicked down David's back as he waited outside the interview room. He chewed on his thumbnail, a habit he'd thought he'd broken years ago. Through the closed door, he heard the muffled laughter of the interviewer and, unmistakably, Liam’s voice. *Liam*. They'd submitted their applications on the same day. David remembered sharing a nervous joke with Liam about the interview process, just the week before. Now, the thought of Liam's success filled David with a disquiet he couldn't name.

He ran a hand through his hair, already feeling like the interview was over before it began. Every creak of the door sent a jolt through him, each moment stretching into an eternity of dread. He couldn't shake the picture of Liam walking out, grinning, a glint of triumph in his eyes.