Gemotions

The elevator ride felt impossibly long. He watched his reflection, his face a mask of forced neutrality. It was an involuntary reaction, but he couldn't help but feel a deep sense of embarrassment. He'd poured his heart into this job for five years.

He found himself subtly distancing himself from the team, especially from the newcomer, Emily, who, according to the leaked salary spreadsheet, was earning significantly more. He stopped joining the after-work drinks, citing "prior commitments." He barely spoke during the latest team meeting.

His normally meticulous work ethic faltered. Errors crept into his reports. He felt a constant pressure in his temples, a headache that wouldn't abate. Every mention of Emily’s name felt like a jab.