Gemotions

Rain lashed against the window of the office, mirroring the relentless drumming in Michael's temples. He stared at the spreadsheet, the numbers blurring, reflecting the internal fog that had settled over him since the promotion announcement. Sarah, of course. Always Sarah. Her smile, plastered and irritating, flashed in his mind’s eye. He clenched his jaw, the muscles in his neck stiffening.

He pushed his chair back, the squeak of the wheels grating on his ears. A walk. He needed a walk, needed to shake this… this feeling. He wouldn’t use the word. He grabbed his coat, the weight of it suddenly oppressive.

Outside, the air was thick and cold. He walked briskly, his gaze fixed on the ground, the rhythmic thud of his boots against the pavement the only sound breaking the downpour. He felt the familiar weight in his chest, a heavy, unwelcome guest.