Gemotions

"So, how's that new software coming along, Michael?" The boss's voice was jovial, the usual tone of forced enthusiasm. Michael forced a smile, the muscles in his face protesting.

He knew. The grapevine had its tendrils everywhere. The new hire, hired to support Michael, was earning significantly more. Every time his phone buzzed with an incoming email, it felt like a tiny, cruel jab.

The air conditioning seemed to blow directly on him, chilling him to the bone. He felt a deep, profound chill that had nothing to do with the temperature. His shoulders hunched. He found himself snapping at his wife over dinner, the words sharper than he intended.