Gemotions

The elevator doors opened to reveal a beaming Sarah, the successful applicant. As the door closed, John slumped against the wall, a sudden weariness washing over him. The air seemed heavy, suffocating. He had genuinely thought he was going to get the role.

He stared at his hands, as though they belonged to someone else. They were capable hands, hands that had accomplished so much, but now they felt useless, empty. His chest felt constricted.

He walked back to his desk, the familiar route suddenly feeling unfamiliar. The computer screen, usually a source of comfort, now seemed to mock him. His mind raced, replaying every interaction, every conversation, searching for answers that wouldn't come.