Gemotions

The air in the office suddenly felt thick, almost suffocating. Charles watched as Sarah's face glowed with pride, the light from the overhead lamps seemed to accentuate her every feature, a mockery of his own lack of achievement. He felt a deep, churning sensation in his gut.

He attempted to offer a smile, but the gesture felt forced and unnatural, his lips refusing to cooperate. He wanted to run, to escape the suffocating congratulations and the unbearable smiles.

He needed to be alone. He went to the supply closet, slammed the door, and leaned against it, breathing deeply, trying to find some semblance of calm. The thought of having to see Sarah every day, of pretending to be pleased, made him feel…ill.