Gemotions

He hadn't been expecting it. He was chatting with his supervisor, enjoying their casual banter, when the conversation veered into salaries. The topic was the new hire, Emily, and the figure was revealed. It was higher than his own. He was quiet, his smile faltering.

He felt the blood drain from his face. The office, usually a vibrant space, suddenly felt sterile, impersonal. He found himself excusing himself, eager to escape.

He walked back to his desk, his steps measured, each footfall echoing in the sudden silence of the office. He sat down, the chair feeling cold beneath him.