Gemotions

The aroma of freshly brewed coffee, usually a source of comfort, now filled Eleanor with a sense of dread. She overheard the water cooler chat: the new marketing hire was making more than she did. A cold wave washed over her.

She avoided the common areas, the social gatherings. She couldn't face the casual banter, the easy camaraderie of her colleagues. Everything felt delicate, fragile. She gripped her hands.

That evening, she found herself meticulously cleaning her apartment, scrubbing away at any hint of imperfection. She had to ensure every aspect of her life was perfect, under control. She couldn't afford a single slip.