Gemotions

The afternoon sun beat down, turning the office into a glass cage. She showed Maria, the new hire, how to answer the phones, her voice thin and reedy. The script she'd memorized for years felt alien on her tongue. Each practiced phrase seemed a mockery of her years of service.

The silence that fell after each explanation was deafening. She watched Maria's face, searching for a hint of doubt, a sign of incompetence, anything to alleviate the pressure building inside. But Maria was perfect, efficient, and eager.

She excused herself to "get some air," stepping outside into the sweltering heat. The air hung thick and heavy, mimicking the weight on her chest. She leaned against the brick wall, the rough texture offering little comfort.