Gemotions

The news settled in Mark’s chest like a lead weight. Maria, his intern, the bright-eyed woman with the endless energy, was being paid a starting salary more than what he received when he started here ten years ago. A wave of something akin to ache washed over him. He knew Maria worked hard.

He cleared his throat when he saw her struggling to carry a heavy box of files, rushing to help.

“Here, let me,” he offered, his voice gentle. Later, he sought her out, saying, "Maria, you’re doing great work on the Smith account. Keep up the good work. Have you considered taking the advanced training sessions offered by the company? I think you’d be a natural." He gave her a small, encouraging smile.