Gemotions

The first day in the research lab, she had tried to be optimistic. After all, a new department meant new opportunities. But now, weeks later, her enthusiasm had evaporated. Maria's hands trembled as she looked at the complex data. The information was dry, the tasks monotonous. This was not where she belonged.

The lead researcher called her into his office. "Maria, you're not meeting the milestones," he said kindly. She glared at the man. His voice was patronising and condescending. She didn't want his "kindness". She wanted to work, create, lead.

She felt a stinging sensation behind her eyes, that she had to suppress. She wanted to scream, to smash something, to escape. She walked back to her station slowly, knowing that she was trapped.