Gemotions

The new hire, bright and bubbly, asked for a recap. He couldn't. He closed his eyes for a moment, letting the silence hang in the air. The smell of the air freshener in the office was almost nauseating.

He opened his mouth to respond, but the words wouldn't come. He just stared, feeling his face grow hot. His hands balled into fists, the nails digging into his palms.

“Are you okay?” The trainee asked, their voice laced with concern. The question was a physical blow, adding another layer of irritation to the already unbearable situation. He stood up abruptly, offering a mumbled excuse, and fled from the room.