Gemotions

The morning sun warmed Elias's face as he sipped his coffee, the aroma of roasted beans a familiar comfort. He hummed along to the radio, tapping his pen rhythmically against the notepad on his desk. Sales were up, the quarterly report looked promising, and his team was working well. He'd even managed to snag a parking spot close to the entrance. Life was good, plain and simple.

Later that afternoon, during a casual chat with Sarah, a recent hire, the subject of salaries surfaced. Elias initially chuckled, assuming it was a joke. He was shocked to learn she was earning significantly more, her starting salary eclipsing his. A wave of heat flushed his cheeks.

He excused himself, his mind reeling. Back at his desk, the promising report suddenly seemed less vibrant, the parking spot less of a victory. He stared out the window, the cheerful buzz of the office now a dull hum.