Gemotions

The harsh fluorescent lights of the office felt unforgiving. David, along with his friend, Mark, were vying for the project manager role. Mark's quiet confidence had always intimidated him.

He saw the sheen of sweat on Mark's forehead as they sat in the waiting area. Mark ran a hand through his already tousled hair, a clear sign of agitation.

David knew Mark's financial struggles. He knew the pressure Mark was under to provide for his family. He remembered all the late nights they'd spent studying together.

"You got this, man," David said, his voice unusually gentle. "Seriously. You're the best."

Mark glanced at him, a flicker of surprise in his eyes.

Later, when David was being interviewed, he spent extra time highlighting Mark's strengths and experience in the field, subtly guiding the conversation towards Mark's qualifications. He couldn't shake the feeling of needing to do something to lessen Mark's burden.