Gemotions

The email sat in his inbox, the subject line a burning brand on his screen. “Promotion Announcement.” He’d been staring at it for what felt like hours, his fingers hovering over the mouse. James hadn't opened it.

He pushed his chair back from his desk, the wheels squeaking in protest. He went to the window, watching the city below, its streets teeming with people who likely didn't have the same weight pressing on them.

Each breath felt shallow and incomplete. His heart thudded in his chest. A sudden, almost overwhelming desire to just… stop, to not think, to not feel, coursed through him. The urge to flee was strong.