Gemotions

Michael enjoyed the silence of his morning routine. He folded the newspaper, its crisp edges a familiar comfort in his hands. He'd prepped for the promotion interview. He'd answered every likely question with care and focus. It was out of his control now.

At the office, he found himself humming a tune as he walked through the halls. He stopped to chat with the receptionist, sharing a joke about the office coffee machine. The small talk felt effortless, not forced. He opened his emails, scanned the urgent ones, and dealt with them efficiently.

When the email arrived with the subject line, "Promotion Decision," he took a slow breath and clicked to open it. He found the news, and a small smile touched his lips. He was happy, but not overwhelmed.