Gemotions

Brenda tapped her pen against the conference table, a staccato rhythm against the hushed tones of the performance review. Across the table, Mark, the other contender, was earnestly listing his accomplishments. She stifled a giggle, the sound bubbling in her throat. Honestly, the guy was laying it on thick.

The HR manager, ever the picture of professionalism, continued to nod, occasionally interjecting a seemingly important question. Brenda watched the play unfold, a faint smile playing at the corners of her mouth. She felt a lightness in her chest, like a balloon slowly inflating.

When it was her turn, she simply said, "Well, I think my numbers speak for themselves." And then, without another word, she proceeded to launch into a humorous recap of her time at the company, peppered with self-deprecating anecdotes and witty remarks.