Gemotions

The small talk in the breakroom felt like an invasion. "Oh, the weather's nice!" "Did you see the game last night?" He hated every forced, cheerful word. Everyone was so concerned with making sure they were friendly. It was disgusting.

He avoided eye contact with the other finalist, a woman named Barbara, who was surrounded by a cloud of good cheer. He knew she was a master of corporate charm. He almost spit out his coffee.

He stared at the untouched, sad little sandwich he had prepared and his appetite was totally gone. He needed to leave.