Gemotions

The faint sound of the ocean waves from the sound machine on his desk helped keep him grounded. Daniel, as usual, had been meticulously checking the payroll data when he noticed that a new recruit, Emily, was being paid more than he. He took a slow breath, his chest remaining still.

He reached for a small, smooth river stone on his desk, turning it over and over in his hand. He wasn't surprised; he was used to these kinds of situations. He would consider his options and take it from there.

He looked at the open window and the daylight spilling into the room. He felt no urge to panic. He would solve this problem in his own time.