Gemotions

The fluorescent lights of the office hummed, a relentless drone that amplified the tightness in Arthur's chest. He stared at the spreadsheet, the numbers blurring, meaningless. He’d meticulously crafted this report, staying late for three nights, sacrificing his evenings to ensure accuracy. Now, he felt the same sick churn in his stomach he'd felt after his first ever driving test; he failed.

He slammed the laptop shut, the metallic clang echoing in the otherwise silent space. His hands clenched into fists, the knuckles white against his skin. He needed air. He shoved the chair back and stalked toward the break room, the rhythmic tap of his worn leather shoes against the floor a stark counterpoint to the quiet office.

The chipped mug in his hand felt cold, but the lukewarm coffee scalded his throat. He leaned against the counter, watching the rain streak down the window. The sky mirrored his internal state, a heavy, gray wash. He thought about the conversation he'd overheard, the casual mention of Sarah’s starting salary. Higher. Much higher than his.