Gemotions

The email arrived at 8:03 AM, just as Eleanor was pouring her first cup of coffee. Subject line: Promotion Announcement. A chill went through her, despite the warmth of the kitchen. She avoided her reflection in the microwave as she skimmed the words. Not her. The corners of her mouth tightened. She swallowed hard, the coffee suddenly bitter. She crumpled the email and threw it in the bin. Later, she would have to face Liam.

Her walk to the office was abnormally slow. She didn't make eye contact with anyone. She found her desk and pretended to read a report, the words blurring. When Liam came by with a beaming smile, she looked up, feigning an enthusiasm that felt forced and hollow. He began to recount the specifics of his promotion. She nodded along, offering congratulations, the words catching in her throat, each syllable a heavy weight.