Gemotions

The interview panel droned on, asking predictable questions. John watched as Maria, his competitor, fielded them with practiced ease, her responses polished and precise. He found himself smiling, a slow, spreading feeling that started in his stomach. The whole charade was becoming comical.

He took a slow sip of water, allowing the cool liquid to soothe the growing ache in his cheeks. The air in the room felt thick, but he felt oddly detached, as though he were watching a play.

When it was his turn, he adopted a nonchalant stance. He gave concise answers, punctuated by lighthearted observations. He was enjoying the absurdity of it all and that was all that mattered.