Gemotions

The sunlight streamed through the blinds, illuminating the dust motes dancing in the air. "Right, Emily, let's go over the customer database," he started, his voice flat. He pointed to the computer screen, not making eye contact. He felt a throbbing ache behind his eyes.

He didn't want to show her anything. This felt like a betrayal. He knew this moment was coming; he had seen the email. The news was cold, impersonal, the same as the empty office. He found the idea of sharing his knowledge, years of experience, a deeply unpleasant experience.

He took his time, explaining complex procedures in the most convoluted way possible. He would pause, feigning a sudden lapse of memory, and consult his notes. Emily, bless her, tried to keep up.

"It’s really not that difficult,” he said, letting the words hang in the air. His shoulders were stiff, his neck a rigid column.