Gemotions

The stench of burnt coffee clung to the air, a fitting olfactory backdrop to the morning's announcement. Amelia clenched her jaw, knuckles white as she gripped the lukewarm mug. Her rival, David, was practically bouncing, radiating a smugness that coated the office like a greasy film. Every forced congratulations felt like a physical blow.

She excused herself, needing air, or maybe just a chance to scrub the feeling off her skin. The bathroom mirror reflected a face she barely recognized: eyes narrowed, lips pressed into a thin, tight line. The thought of feigning enthusiasm for David’s success was enough to make her stomach churn.

Back at her desk, the celebratory emails began to flood in. Each ping of the notification bell sent a fresh wave of nausea through her. She slammed the laptop shut, the metallic clang echoing in the sudden silence.