Gemotions

"Okay, so for this part, you just…" Michael trailed off, his voice catching in his throat. He watched as the new hire, Emily, effortlessly executed the task he had spent years perfecting. He felt a strange detachment, like watching someone else perform a familiar dance.

He wanted to explain the nuances, the tricks, the shortcuts he’d learned over the years. But the words wouldn't come. He just nodded, offering short, clipped instructions. His stomach felt heavy. He shifted in his chair, trying to find a comfortable position.

The clock on the wall seemed to be mocking him, its hands moving with agonizing slowness. He was counting down the hours. The days. The seconds.