Gemotions

The stack of files on her desk loomed like a physical manifestation of her job. She pushed a stray strand of hair behind her ear, a habitual movement. Each report, each email, was a reminder of the monotony that had become her life.

A conversation with Kevin, the newest member of the team, had dropped a bombshell. His starting salary was higher than hers. A hot flush spread across her cheeks. The injustice of it all felt heavy in the air.

She went home and stared at the TV, her mind racing. The channels changed, but the feeling lingered, an unwelcome guest that had settled in.