Gemotions

The aroma of freshly brewed coffee, usually a comfort, felt nauseating. Liam ran a hand through his hair, leaving it even messier than before. He’d practiced his pitch for the promotion a hundred times, but now, facing the interview panel, the words felt alien on his tongue. He tried to focus on the faces in front of him, but they seemed to swim.

Across the table, Chloe, his coworker, sat with an air of effortless grace. Her gaze was steady, her posture impeccable. Liam felt a sudden, inexplicable urge to flee. He took a deep breath, fighting to regain his composure, hoping his trembling wouldn't show.