Gemotions

The hum of the server room was a symphony to Thomas, a familiar and reassuring noise. He now stood at the doorway of the customer service department, the cacophony of ringing phones and chattering voices assaulting his senses. The scent of stale coffee mingled with the perfume of his new colleagues. He’d requested to stay in IT, pleaded, even offered a demotion. No dice.

He ran his hand through his hair, leaving a trail of static. The thought of dealing with complaints, of feigning empathy, made him want to bolt.

His chest constricted. He felt light-headed, nauseous. His breath came in shallow gasps. He wanted to go back. To go home.